What is Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine therapy refers to the use of the drug ketamine, typically administered in controlled, low doses, to treat mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic pain. Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has been found to have fast-acting antidepressant effects when administered in certain forms, such as intravenous (IV) infusions, intramuscular (IM) shots,nasal sprays, or troches (a lozenge.)  Our office has the most recent innovative advances in ROAs (routes of administration) to include  nebulized (inhaled) ketamine. 

The therapy is often sought by individuals who haven't responded well to traditional treatments, such as standard antidepressants. Ketamine therapy works by affecting glutamate, a neurotransmitter in the brain, which can help promote neural growth and increase connectivity in brain circuits linked to mood and emotions. 

Typically, it is administered in a clinical setting under medical supervision to ensure safety and monitor potential side effects, which may include dizziness, dissociation, or increased blood pressure. Some forms of ketamine therapy have been approved by the FDA, such as esketamine (Spravato), a nasal spray used for treatment-resistant depression. All other forms of ketamine are prescribed off-label but have been extensively studied and researched for well over 15 years for treatment of mood disorders and chronic pain with an astoundingly high number of patients feeling remission from symptoms.