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Ketamine has proven to be an effective treatment for various mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. While ketamine was originally used as a surgery anesthetic, in recent years, research has shown that it is also helpful for people who don’t respond to traditional mental health treatments. To understand the value of ketamine infusion for mental health treatment, we must first understand how ketamine therapy effects the brain. Learning about the benefits and how ketamine works helps ensure that people have access to ketamine therapy for depression and other mental health conditions.
Ketamine Effect on the Brain for Mental Health
Ketamine has fast-acting results, which is likely linked to how it impacts different parts of the brain than other antidepressants available on the market. Research indicates that ketamine therapy temporarily blocks NMDA receptors damaged by mental illness such as anxiety or depression. This temporary block allows the person to have a short-term reset in which the receptors operate normally, giving the individual relief from some symptoms.
Depression, Anxiety PTSD Therapy
Some people may be surprised to learn about the many benefits of ketamine therapy for mental health. Common treatment options include ketamine infusion therapy for severe anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health concerns that may not be responding well to other forms of treatment. Ketamine infusion therapy leads to fast results but does require additional infusions to maintain the results. People who may be frustrated with the lack of results from traditional treatment now have a chance to feel better and manage their mental health symptoms more efficiently and effectively.
Cancer Pain, Migraine, Chronic Pain Relief
Not only does ketamine therapy benefit those in managing their mental health, but it can also provide relief for people who are suffering from chronic pain related to health conditions such as cancer or migraines. Just as with mental health, ketamine infusions for chronic pain are ongoing. Typically, one should expect to have a series of ketamine infusions spaced a few weeks apart and then “booster” infusions based on their specific needs. People who cope with chronic pain often feel it affects their mental health. Ketamine proves to be a potential solution for both the physical and mental side effects of chronic conditions.
Side Effects of Ketamine
While ketamine for mental health and chronic pain is certainly beneficial, there are possible side effects to keep in mind. Please note that there are no long-term side effects linked to ketamine therapy. However, possible short-term side effects of ketamine include nausea or drowsiness. Due to the infusion potentially leaving individuals feeling disoriented for a short time, it’s important to plan to have someone else drive you home after your treatment. Once the ketamine leaves your system, you shouldn’t experience any additional side effects. Additionally, during the ketamine infusion therapy, you can notify your provider if you start to feel queasy, and they can adjust the drip rate to help relieve those symptoms.
