Ketamine Treatment for Depression
Ketamine Treatment for Depression
Approximately 17 million people in the United States have experienced at least one episode of depression within the last year. Depression can wreak havoc on your life. Unfortunately, many current treatment options can prove ineffective in helping individuals improve overall mental health and well-being. Ketamine is a relatively new treatment option that may benefit those suffering from depression.
How Ketamine Treatment for Depression Works
Ketamine works to block NMDA brain receptors to induce rapid antidepressant effects within the brain. The anesthetic medication is administered in a controlled setting through infusions by board certified anesthesiologists to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for patients. Since these infusions are delivered directly into the bloodstream, individuals can achieve faster results than with oral medications that the digestive system must absorb. In addition, side effects are minimal when compared to other treatment methods.
Traditional antidepressant medication can take four weeks or more to show signs of working and is effective for only 50% of patients. Ketamine can provide noticeable relief within an hour after the first treatment. For some individuals, relief can be experienced within a few weeks. How quickly a person experiences relief will depend on the severity of symptoms and body chemistry. Ketamine treatment for depression works best when combined with other psychotherapeutic treatments.
Ideal Candidates for Ketamine Treatment for Depression
Most individuals who are diagnosed with depression can benefit from ketamine treatment. However, individuals dealing with addiction may not be ideal candidates for ketamine treatment for depression. To find out if this treatment is right for you, it can be beneficial to schedule a consultation with a board certified anesthesiologist. During your appointment, the anesthesiologist will review your medical history and discuss the benefits and risks to help you get the right treatment for your needs.
Improve Your Mental Health with Ketamine Treatment for Depression
Ketamine treatment for depression can help you achieve long-lasting relief from your depression symptoms. If you have been diagnosed with depression, you may want to reach out to the trained professionals at Wellness Infusion Specialists. Individuals receive a comprehensive care approach regarding ketamine treatment for depression symptoms. Contact our office to schedule a depression assessment today.