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.
What to Do If Your Antidepressant Isn't Working
Struggling with depression while on antidepressants can be disheartening, leaving you feeling lost or hopeless. However, our team at Palo Alto Mind Body has the expertise and experience to provide alternative treatments that might get you the results you’re seeking.
Alternative treatments
When conventional antidepressants fail to provide the relief you need, we encourage you to explore other avenues with our guidance. We offer two alternative treatment options for those who don't respond well to traditional antidepressants.
They include:
IV ketamine infusions
Ketamine, an anesthetic medication, has shown promise in rapidly alleviating symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. Here at Palo Alto Mind Body, we administer treatment through intravenous infusions.
Ketamine works differently from typical antidepressants by targeting the glutamate receptors (brain switches that help neurons communicate for learning and memory). This can lead to a rapid but temporary improvement in mood.
Sessions occur in our controlled medical setting. The treatment requires several visits for maximum efficacy, which can provide significant relief from your symptoms.
Spravato® (esketamine, S-ketamine)
Approved by the FDA for treatment-resistant depression, Spravato is a nasal spray containing esketamine, a form of ketamine. It's administered under our medical supervision in our clinic.
It's intended for those who haven't responded to other antidepressants, and treatment involves receiving Spravato alongside an oral antidepressant.
Things to consider
Although these alternative treatments offer hope if you have treatment-resistant depression, there are a few things you need to consider, such as:
Side effects and monitoring
Both IV ketamine infusions and Spravato require careful monitoring because of potential side effects. These can include dissociation, dizziness, sedation, and in some cases, elevated blood pressure or heart rate.
As trained professionals, we administer these treatments while closely monitoring you during and after the procedure to ensure your safety.
Efficacy and individual response
Response to these treatments varies among individuals. Though some experience significant improvements, others may not respond as positively. Long-term effects and the need for maintenance treatments also require consideration.
During your consultation, we discuss the variable outcomes to help you know what to expect.
Cost concerns
If cost is a concern, you can rely on our front- and back-office teams to help you qualify for treatment. For example, many patients can get Spravato treatment for as little as $10 per session.
Where to start
If you aren’t having any positive results with your current antidepressant and haven’t had success in the past, start by scheduling a consultation with an expert from our team. We can discuss your options for alternative treatment.
We can also assess your specific situation, discuss the potential benefits and risks — and if you qualify for treatment — develop a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs.
When traditional antidepressants aren't effective, exploring alternative treatments like IV ketamine infusions and Spravato may offer new possibilities for managing depression. However, it’s important to understand that these options are part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may also include therapy, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support.
If you’re ready to book a consultation with our expert team, call our friendly office staff at 650-681-2900, or click here to schedule an appointment online today.
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