What You NEED to Know About Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine is increasingly being recognized as a groundbreaking treatment for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as chronic pain. Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has evolved into a powerful alternative for individuals who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ketamine therapy and explore how it works, its benefits, and why supervised administration is essential for safety and effectiveness.
What is Ketamine?
According to Krystal et al. (2019), ketamine works by targeting the brain’s glutamate system, promoting rapid improvements in mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that was first used in medical settings for anesthesia during surgeries. However, its effects on brain chemistry have opened new doors for its use in treating a range of mental health conditions. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which take weeks to show results, ketamine can offer fast-acting relief, often within hours.
As ketamine therapy becomes more widely recognized, platforms like Innerwell are making it convenient for home use through their at-home ketamine. This allows individuals to receive safe, effective treatment under the supervision of licensed professionals, without the need for frequent clinic visits.
Ketamine for Depression and Anxiety
Ketamine is especially promising for individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Studies have shown that it can provide rapid relief when traditional therapies fail. This makes it a lifeline for those suffering from severe, persistent depression and anxiety.
Daly et al. (2018) found that ketamine significantly reduced symptoms of depression in patients with TRD within 24 hours of administration, offering a quicker and more effective treatment option for many.
How Does Ketamine Work?
Ketamine works by affecting the brain’s glutamate system, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. By modulating glutamate, ketamine helps restore neural pathways that are often damaged or altered in individuals with depression and anxiety. This process can quickly improve mood, reduce suicidal thoughts, and provide long-term mental health benefits.
Types of Ketamine Therapy
There are several ways ketamine is administered for mental health treatment:
• Intravenous (IV) Infusion: The most common and effective method, allowing for precise dosing.
• Intranasal (Spravato): FDA-approved for depression, Spravato is a nasal spray containing esketamine.
• Oral Ketamine (Troches): Troches offer a convenient at-home option, particularly for individuals who prefer to avoid in-clinic treatments.
• Intramuscular (IM) Injection: Less commonly used but still effective in certain clinical settings.
The Benefits of At-Home Ketamine Therapy
With platforms like Innerwell, at-home ketamine therapy has become more accessible. At-home treatments, such as ketamine troches, provide convenience and ease for individuals who need ongoing therapy but may not have access to in-clinic options. Innerwell ensures that patients are monitored by licensed providers throughout the process, ensuring safe and effective use.
• Convenience: Treatment from the comfort of your home.
• Supervised Care: Licensed providers monitor your progress to ensure safety.
• Accessibility: A more affordable and accessible option for those unable to visit clinics regularly.
Is Ketamine Safe?
Ketamine has been shown to be safe when administered under medical supervision. The potential for misuse or side effects—such as dissociation, dizziness, or nausea—highlights the importance of having treatments guided by a professional. Clinics like Innerwell provide medically supervised ketamine therapy, ensuring that dosages are controlled and risks are minimized.
Short et al. (2018) emphasized that most side effects of ketamine are mild and short-lived, particularly when administered in a clinical setting with proper supervision.
Who Can Benefit from Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine therapy is often recommended for individuals who haven’t responded to traditional treatments. It’s particularly beneficial for:
• Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
• PTSD
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
What Are the Risks of Ketamine Therapy?
While ketamine is generally well-tolerated, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, including:
• Dissociation (feeling detached from reality)
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Nausea or dizziness
• Mild hallucinations (which typically subside quickly)
These side effects are typically short-lived and can be managed under the guidance of a medical professional, further emphasizing the importance of supervised care.
How to Get Started with Ketamine Therapy
If you’re interested in exploring ketamine therapy, it’s important to start with a consultation from a licensed provider who will assess your condition and determine if ketamine is the right treatment for you. Platforms like Innerwell make it easy to begin treatment from home, with ongoing support and monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
Ketamine is changing the landscape of mental health treatment by offering a rapid, effective solution for individuals who haven’t found success with traditional methods. However, it’s crucial to approach ketamine therapy with the right support and supervision to ensure safety and efficacy.
References
Daly, E. J., Trivedi, M. H., Janik, A., Li, H., Zhang, Y., Li, X., … & Singh, J. B. (2018). Efficacy of esketamine nasal spray plus oral antidepressant treatment for relapse prevention in patients with treatment-resistant depression. JAMA Psychiatry, 75(2), 139-148. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.3733
Krystal, J. H., Abdallah, C. G., Sanacora, G., Charney, D. S., & Duman, R. S. (2019). Ketamine: A paradigm shift for depression research and treatment. Neuron, 101(5), 774-778. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2019.02.005
Short, B., Fong, J., Galvez, V., Shelker, W., & Loo, C. K. (2018). Side-effects associated with ketamine use in depression: A systematic review. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(1), 65-78. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(17)30272-9
