Myths and Facts About Ketamine
Have you heard about ketamine but just aren’t sure what to believe? We’re here to dispel the myths and give you the facts, so you can know the truth about what it is and how it works.
All About IV Ketamine Infusions
IV ketamine infusions have been making waves as a novel approach to addressing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and even chronic pain.
At Palo Alto Mind Body, we’re a highly specialized team, led by Dr. M Rameen Ghorieshi, who can administer this treatment. Let’s explore what IV ketamine infusions are, how they work, and how they may benefit you.
What is IV ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication that’s been used for decades as an anesthetic in both humans and animals. In recent years, it’s gained attention for its potential to treat various mental health conditions, particularly treatment-resistant depression. IV ketamine infusions involve the intravenous administration of a controlled dose of ketamine in a clinical setting like Palo Alto Mind Body.
How IV ketamine works
The exact mechanism of ketamine's action in the treatment of mental health disorders isn’t fully understood, but researchers have identified several key factors, including:
Glutamate modulation
Ketamine affects the brain's glutamate neurotransmitter system. This modulation is believed to help create new neural connections and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Rapid onset
Unlike traditional antidepressant medications, which may take weeks to show results, ketamine infusions often produce noticeable improvements within hours or days. This rapid onset of action is particularly beneficial for individuals in crisis or those with severe depression.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Ketamine may also have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Inflammation has been linked to various mental health conditions, and reducing it may provide relief.
Conditions treated with IV ketamine
IV ketamine infusions have shown promise in treating a range of mental health conditions, including:
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Chronic pain
During your evaluation, we can determine if IV ketamine infusions might be a recommended treatment for you.
Benefits of IV ketamine infusions
Getting IV ketamine infusions can offer many benefits, such as:
Quick relief
One of the most significant advantages of IV ketamine infusions is how quickly it can take effect. The fast-acting relief can be life-saving, especially if you’re experiencing severe depression or having suicidal thoughts. If you have active thoughts of harming yourself, please call 911 now, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
High success rate
Studies have reported high response and remission rates in individuals receiving ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant depression and other conditions.
Few side effects
When administered in our clinical setting by our trained professionals, ketamine infusions are generally safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. We monitor your treatment from beginning to end.
Alternative to other treatments that haven’t worked
If you haven’t responded to traditional treatments, ketamine infusions may be the answer, offering new hope for relief.
Considerations and precautions
Though IV ketamine infusions hold great promise, important considerations and precautions to know about include:
Treatment plan
The optimal treatment plan varies from person-to-person. We work closely with you to determine your appropriate dosage and frequency.
Long-term effects
The long-term effects of ketamine use for mental health conditions are still being studied. During your initial consultation, we discuss the potential risks and benefits.
Safety
Ketamine has a history of recreational use as a party drug. However, ketamine infusions are administered under our medical supervision in a controlled environment.
IV ketamine infusions represent a promising treatment option for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Treatment is becoming a valuable addition to the mental health treatment landscape.
As research continues, we may gain further insights into the potential of ketamine as a game-changer in mental health care.
To find out more about IV ketamine infusions and if they’re right for you, call us at 650-681-2900 or book an appointment online today at the office nearest you. We provide care to those across the Bay Area—South Bay, North Bay, East Bay, Peninsula, or San Francisco, California.
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