Frequently Asked Questions About Treating Depression With Ketamine
If you've been struggling to find a treatment that works for your depression, a doctor or therapist may have suggested that you try ketamine. This is a very different kind of depression treatment, and it is quickly gaining popularity. However, since it is so different from SSRIs and other better-known depression medications, people still have a lot of questions about it. Maybe you've pondered some of the following questions yourself.
Is ketamine treatment experimental?
Not really. Using ketamine for depression is relatively new, but ketamine is not a new drug in and of itself. It was previously used — and is still used — as an anesthetic. So, you can have confidence that plenty of doctors have given their patients ketamine. Its side effects and safety are well-measured and understood by doctors and scientists.
How does ketamine work?
Ketamine appears to work by causing your brain to produce a lot of glutamate. When glutamate levels are high, your brain is better able to form new neural connections. So, under the influence of ketamine, you can form new neural pathways that do not include your typical, depressive thoughts and worries. In other words, ketamine works by allowing your brain to re-wire itself.
Are there side effects to worry about?
Most people don't deal with any serious side effects when taking ketamine. It's not unusual, however, for people to feel nauseous while on the drug. This isn't a huge concern and should pass within a few hours at most. Do let your doctor know if you're feeling nauseous on ketamine. They may be able to reduce your dose and minimize this issue without reducing the effects of the ketamine.
How long do you have to take ketamine?
Actually, ketamine is not exactly something you take. It is administered to you via an IV in a doctor's office. Most people need a couple of treatments, spaced a few weeks apart, to enjoy full relief from their depression. Your doctor will talk to you about your results after each treatment and will rely on your feedback to determine how many treatments, in total, you need. Everyone is a little different.
If you are struggling with treatment-resistant depression, it is definitely worth looking into ketamine treatment. It is quite different from other treatments and may be a little intimidating at first, but your doctor can tell you more about it and answer any lingering questions that come to mind.
For more information, contact a company like Kure Ketamine.