Ketamine was originally used as an anesthetic. It has gained significant attention for its rapid-acting antidepressant properties. Ketamine therapy involves the administration of low doses of ketamine. Under medical supervision to treat various mental health disorders, including:

• depression
• anxiety
• PTSD

Unlike traditional antidepressants that may take weeks to become effective. Ketamine can produce noticeable improvements in mood within hours of administration. It is particularly effective in cases of treatment-resistant depression. Where other medications have failed^[1][2]. The therapy administers through:

• intravenous infusions
• intranasal sprays
• oral lozenges

Ketamine's mechanism involves N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism. Which leads to increased brain plasticity & the formation of new neural connections. Reversing the neural deficits associated with depression^[3].

Ketamine infusion therapy targets major depressive disorder (MDD) & treatment-resistant depression (TRD):

• Researched success rate as high as 70% in treating MDD & TRD
• Many patients experience significant improvement after just one or two infusions.
• 35% reporting complete resolution of depression symptoms
• 63% of patients with suicidal ideation no longer experience suicidal thoughts. Within three days of treatment

Ketamine is effective in treating:

• anxiety disorders
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Traditional antidepressants primarily target serotonin pathways. Ketamine acts on the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. By blocking these receptors, ketamine increases the levels of glutamate. A neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity & neural communication. This action helps to restore & strengthen neural connections. In brain regions associated with mood regulation. Leading to rapid antidepressant effects^[4][5].

Ketamine differs from traditional antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Ketamine acts on the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. By blocking these receptors, ketamine increases the levels of glutamate. A neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity & neural communication.

This action helps to restore & strengthen neural connections. In brain regions associated with mood regulation. Leading to rapid antidepressant effects^[4][5].

Targeting NMDA & Glutamate strengthens & restores vital neural connections & pathways. In regions of the brain impacted by depression. Leading to positive changes in brain circuit function & improved mood regulation. Low-dose ketamine infusion therapy can rapidly produce significant symptom improvement. Often within hours to days. With a greater reach & impact on brain cells compared to antidepressants.

Clinical studies demonstrate the effectiveness of ketamine infusion therapy. In alleviating symptoms of depression^[1]. Patients often experience significant improvements after one or two infusions. For instance, within three days of treatment^[4]:

• approximately 35% of patients report complete resolution of depressive symptoms
• 63% of those with suicidal ideation no longer have suicidal thoughts

These rapid effects are particularly beneficial for individuals in acute depressive crises.

Ketamine infusion therapy is typically administered intravenously in a clinical setting. The standard protocol involves an initial series of six infusions over three weeks^[5][6]. Followed by maintenance treatments every two to four weeks as needed. Each infusion session lasts about 40 minutes. Healthcare professionals monitor the patients. To manage any potential side effects^[5].

Ketamine is generally considered safe. It can cause side effects such as dissociation, elevated blood pressure, nausea, & dizziness. These effects are usually transient and subside shortly after the infusion ends. Ketamine should be used with caution in individuals with a history of:

• psychosis
• substance use disorders
• cardiovascular issues

It is not recommended for^[6]:

• pregnant or breastfeeding women
• teenagers
• older adults with dementia

The long-term benefits & safety of ketamine infusion therapy are still under investigation. Current research suggests that ketamine provides rapid relief. Its effects may diminish over time, necessitating repeated treatments. There is also a need for more studies to determine the optimal dosing schedules. And to explore the potential of other administration routes. Such as intranasal or oral ketamine^[6][7].

If ketamine infusion therapy interests you, consult with your healthcare provider. Dr Emenike, & the staff will:

• gather information about your symptoms & medical history
• discuss the treatment process
• schedule your treatment sessions

Only Kaiser Insurance covers Ketamine infusion therapy for insurance reimbursement. But Ketamine treatment is an affordable option for depression & other psychiatric indications.

Ketamine infusion therapy represents a significant advancement in the treatment of depression. Offering hope to those who have not found relief with traditional antidepressants. Its rapid onset of action & effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation make it a valuable option. For managing severe and treatment-resistant depression. As research continues, ketamine may become an integral part of the therapeutic arsenal for mood disorders. Providing a lifeline to many patients in need^[8][9].