Depression

DEPRESSION

Although there are many treatments for depression, sometimes—if at all—they don't work as well as we'd like.

The use of ketamine infusion therapies is rapidly becoming acknowledged as one of the most significant developments in contemporary depression therapy.  Even though no single approach or type of treatment will help everyone, ketamine is remarkable because it has a success rate of up to 70% among patients who have tried traditional treatments but are still suffering from depression.

If you are struggling to find an effective treatment for your depression, Ketamine America may be able to provide the relief you need. Get in touch with us today!

What is depression

Clinical depression goes far beyond the typical "blues." It is a debilitating mood disorder that can severely impair one's ability to function in nearly all areas of life.

Depression is characterized as the persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest in doing things that once brought pleasure. This can lead to a range of behavioral and physical symptoms. These may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, concentration, daily behavior, or self-esteem. Depression can also be associated with thoughts of suicide.

The first line of treatment for depression usually consists of a class of drugs known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). But while SSRIs may be effective at resolving depression in some patients, about 50% of patients do not find lasting relief using conventional medicine.

In 2008, a study was conducted that actually found most antidepressant drugs, in fact, work no better than a placebo. These drugs also come with significant limitations. These limitations include low response rates, treatment resistance, high incidence of relapse, and a delay in efficacy that requires patients to take one of many SSRIs for weeks to months before seeing any benefit. Not to mention these drugs also come with many side effects, such as nausea, drowsiness or insomnia, constipation, and weight gain.

ketamine for depression

Most people with depression would benefit from ketamine treatment. Anesthetic ketamine has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is also commonly used off-label to treat a variety of treatment-resistant mood disorders, including depression.

How does ketamine treat depression?

Most antidepressants work by increasing the neurotransmitters Serotonin, Norepinephrine, or Dopamine. Ketamine acts in a different mechanism. Ketamine blocks the NMDA receptor in the brain, allowing it to modulate the production of the neurotransmitter Glutamate. 

The function of most, if not all, of the cells in the brain is regulated by Glutamate. Thus, most disorders in the brain involve some degree of Glutamate dysfunction. This reset from the administration of Ketamine creates an environment that allows receptors, proteins, and neural pathways to work in more optimal ways that they were not able to before due to depression.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING KETAMINE INFUSION THERAPY?

Following a qualified practitioner's diagnosis of depressive disorder, the patient will be scheduled for ketamine infusion therapy.

Ketamine infusion therapy is given in a medical setting under strict medical supervision. A pain management expert administers it via an intravenous (IV) line. A plastic cannula is inserted in a vein in the patient's arm, and A computer-controlled infusion pump delivers the ketamine through it.

The patient's vitals, including heart rate and blood pressure, are constantly monitored by our team as treatment progresses. Treatment duration and the number of sessions are variable and determined by the patient's condition and response to treatment. A patient may require multiple sessions of treatment to see optimal results. 

Accurate dosing of ketamine is essential for effective treatment. This is why, at Ketamine America, we create customized treatment plans based on your unique response to the drug. Moreover, keep in mind that ketamine should only be used under the supervision of trained medical professionals who can ensure that you receive the right amount of effective dose.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF KETAMINE THERAPY?

Each patient’s experience during treatment will be unique. You may experience a displaced effect during treatment. Many patients have compared it to a "floating experience" of profound calm. Some people have also noted a shift in their perception of time, color, and sound. These side effects of ketamine, however, usually subside once treatment is over.

If you decide to try ketamine therapy to alleviate your depression, remember to be kind to yourself afterward. Your brain has worked very hard and will continue to work very hard even after your treatment is finished.

ARIZONA KETAMINE INFUSION SPECIALISTS

Searching for a cure for depression can sometimes leave you feeling hopeless. If treatment-resistant depression is preventing you from living your life to the fullest, it is time to explore alternative treatments. Ketamine America is here to help you find your best chance at relief.

Do you want to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy in Arizona or if it is right for you? Give Ketamine America a call or schedule an appointment on our website today!

Our Arizona ketamine clinic offers ketamine infusion treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, and more.