How Does Ketamine Treat Depression

By Dr. James Taggart on March 25, 2022
Male patient looking at nurse while receiving a ketamine treatment in hospital room

Depression is one of the most common mental health issues individuals face, with many people looking for a comprehensive treatment plan that can help them improve their overall quality of life. One treatment option is ketamine infusion therapy. How does ketamine treat depression? We will explore this important point below, and do not forget to reach out to us to learn more about how we can help you. 

What Is Ketamine?

ketamine drip medicine for therapy

Ketamine is a medication that is typically used as an anesthetic for humans and animals. It can be used for surgical procedures to keep people comfortable. Even though it is typically associated with surgical procedures, it has also been used to treat a wide variety of mental health issues for a couple of decades. A few examples include mood disorders, PTSD, and depression.

Because it has been shown to work quickly and contribute to long-lasting results, ketamine has been used as a treatment option for depression. Since that time, ketamine has been proven to effectively treat depressive symptoms in individuals, particularly when it is combined with other treatment methods.

How Ketamine Works

Physician doing the ketamine therapy to the patient

It's important to note that Ketamine Therapy used to treat depression has been shown to be effective, it is still an active area of research. Ketamine binds to brain receptors using a complex process known as synaptogenesis. When ketamine binds to these receptors, it impacts mood and thought patterns to help people treat depression.

Research also indicates that ketamine can reduce the signals associated with inflammation. By acting as an anti-inflammatory medication, it might be possible to change the way neurotransmitters flow throughout the brain. This could have a dramatic impact on depressive symptoms and could be at the core of the treatment mechanism of action.

It's believed that many individuals experience emotional issues like depression from chronic pain. Because ketamine is also effective at reducing pain, this could play a role in the treatment of depression. When individuals do not experience as much pain, feelings of hopelessness could fade into the background. Even though this is a topic that continues to be researched, it is clear that ketamine can be an effective option for depression treatment.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy for Depression

Young male patient receiving ketamine treatment

Ketamine infusion therapy can be an effective option for depression. The dose used to treat depression is significantly lower than the dose used in an anesthetic setting. Prior to the infusion, your doctor will discuss the benefits and drawbacks with you. You will also have an opportunity to ask any questions or concerns you might have.

The exact length of the treatment depends on your dose, you should expect the entire process to take a couple of hours. Many people who are interested in ketamine infusion therapy for depression are frustrated because other antidepressant medications may not have been effective. In some cases, it can take traditional medications weeks or months before they begin to work. Ketamine infusion therapy is different for different people, it generally works quickly.

Ketamine can work quickly to treat depression, it is important for everyone to remember that it may require multiple treatment sessions to fully realize all the benefits. Not everyone has the same experience, and some people may require multiple infusions over a period of several weeks. That is why it is important for everyone to meet with a trained professional to discuss whether ketamine used to treat depression is right for them.

Ketamine Therapy in Shasta County & Redding

In the end, mental health issues remain one of the biggest issues facing the healthcare system today. It is important for everyone to take a well-rounded approach to the treatment of depression, and this could include ketamine. If you are wondering, “how does ketamine treat depression,” it would be our pleasure to help you.

At Shasta Meadows Wellness Center, we are proud to offer ketamine infusion therapy as a treatment option for depression. A professional from our team will work with you personally, making sure this is a good treatment option for you. 

We understand that everyone is coming from a slightly different background, which is why we will always customize your treatment plan to meet your needs. It would be our honor to help you.

Article written by Dr. James Taggart
With over two decades of clinical expertise, Dr. James R. Taggart leads an innovative practice as the founder of Shasta Meadows Wellness Center. His vision is to provide proven treatment options addressing depression and pain with patients who have yet to find relief with traditional medical options.

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