Ketamine therapy is a medical treatment that uses controlled doses of ketamine to help patients suffering from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. While ketamine has been used safely as an anesthetic for decades, researchers discovered that it also has powerful effects on mood and mental health when administered at lower therapeutic doses.
In a medical setting, ketamine is delivered through an IV infusion while patients are carefully monitored by medical professionals.
How does ketamine therapy work?
Ketamine works differently than traditional antidepressants. Most antidepressants affect serotonin levels in the brain. Ketamine targets the glutamate system, which is responsible for neural communication and brain plasticity.
By increasing glutamate activity, ketamine helps the brain form new neural pathways that can interrupt negative thought patterns associated with depression and trauma.
Why is ketamine therapy considered a breakthrough treatment?
Ketamine therapy is considered groundbreaking because it works much faster than traditional antidepressants. Many patients begin to experience relief within hours or days rather than waiting weeks for medications to take effect.
For patients who have not responded to other treatments, ketamine therapy may provide a new path toward recovery.