Despite the fact that the effects of ketamine on depression and anxiety are still debated, some studies have shown that this treatment is beneficial in some cases. One study found that it decreased depressive symptoms in 63% of patients. Another reported a decrease in suicidal thoughts. Among the ketamine patients, the side effects were rare: only 5% reported side effects. Only four patients discontinued the study due to adverse events. California Center for Ketamine Therapy
While the duration of ketamine treatment varies depending on each patient’s needs, the process is generally safe. The initial appointment may involve an intake session. In this session, the physician will review your symptoms and history, and may suggest a medication to help you cope. The treatment may include an eye mask and headphones. Some patients prefer to listen to calming music while taking ketamine. During the ketamine treatment, you may feel floaty or disconnected from your body. This is normal and will pass after a while.
The duration of ketamine infusion is typically 40 minutes. Once the medication is injected into your blood stream, you’ll feel drowsy for the next 20 to 30 minutes. Your provider will monitor your vital signs throughout the infusion to ensure that you don’t become depressed or disoriented. Afterward, you’ll need someone to drive you home from the clinic. If you have an appointment at a hospital, make sure to schedule a cab ride with someone who can help you.
Some patients have reported that they continue to benefit after their ketamine trip. While most people don’t experience the drug “trip,” it is still possible to benefit from ketamine therapy for depression. Research is still ongoing, but many patients report feeling more relaxed and less depressed than before. If you’re suffering from depression or anxiety, you should see your doctor to discuss a ketamine treatment regimen. It’s a natural way to relieve yourself of anxiety.
Despite the risks involved, ketamine therapy is effective for treating many debilitating mood disorders. It is also an option for people who have tried traditional treatments without success. Moreover, ketamine therapy may even become a viable option for addiction treatment. While it may not be for everyone, it may provide hope for a more positive future. Just be sure to consult a psychiatrist before you make a decision on a ketamine treatment.
While conventional pharmacotherapy takes weeks to produce positive results, ketamine acts almost instantly on depressive symptoms. In clinical trials, patients who received a subanesthetic ketamine injection experienced significant improvement in their mood, anxiety, and severity of symptoms. This treatment has a rapid and permanent effect, and the results of ketamine therapy can be seen even in the first few sessions. The benefits are significant, but the side effects may not outweigh the risks.
When ketamine is given by IV, the initial effects of the treatment are most likely to begin showing in as few as six sessions. However, if a person does not respond to the drug after the first infusion, ketamine therapy is likely to continue for an extended period of time. Continued sessions should prolong the positive effects from the initial ketamine IV infusion. This treatment may even be an alternative to other treatment for depression.