How Long Does Ketamine Work For Depression?
Struggling with depression is tough, and finding the right treatment can be a journey. Many have found relief through counseling and medication. However, some people develop treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a type of major depressive disorder that persists despite trying at least two different types of antidepressants. Ketamine is an anesthetic traditionally used in veterinary medicine. Recently, it has been used off-label as a treatment for depression, especially treatment for resistant depression. The effects vary from person to person, but current research shows promising results for people with depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, and many other conditions. The promise of relief from symptoms can feel almost too good to be true for those battling depression. So, how long does ketamine work for depression? Let’s dive into how ketamine works for depression and what you could expect from treatment.
What Is Ketamine Used For?
Ketamine is primarily used as an anesthetic that induces unconsciousness, typically before and during surgery. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ketamine only as a general anesthetic. However, some doctors have prescribed it “off-label,” meaning using the drug to treat conditions not approved by the FDA, to treat depression and other mental health disorders, including substance use disorder. There are two main types of ketamine therapy for depression: ketamine infusion therapy (IV) and the nasal spray esketamine (Spravato), which is FDA-approved.
Additionally, there has been an increase in the use of ketamine for pain management. Some research has shown that small doses of ketamine can be an effective treatment for chronic pain and as an alternative to opioids. Similar to the treatment of depression, ketamine is not typically the first choice in pain treatment and is considered an option when other pain management strategies have failed.
Some people also use ketamine recreationally, which is illegal due to its psychoactive properties. At lower doses, it can act as a stimulant, and in higher doses, it creates a dream-like state along with hallucinations. Users often describe sensations of detachment from reality, a pleasant feeling of floating, and a profound sense of disconnection from their bodies. Similar to substances like PCP and LSD, ketamine is popular as a “club drug” used by people going to events like raves.
Ketamine can be helpful for depression, addiction, and other mental health disorders when used under the close care of medical professionals. However, it is important to note that ketamine can be an addictive substance. While it is not generally considered physically addictive in the same way as substances like alcohol or opioids, it can lead to psychological dependence. When people experience positive outcomes such as pleasure and euphoria from using the drug, it increases the likelihood that they will seek these feelings again, leading to addiction. Ketamine is generally safe when taken as prescribed by doctors, but it can have some risks, including increased blood pressure, respiratory depression, liver injury, and cognitive deficits.
What Are the Mental Health Benefits of Ketamine?
Developed in the early 1960s, ketamine has had a reputation for being strong and dangerous, especially when used recreationally. However, when used clinically, it is a safe and effective drug. As mental health issues continue to rise, the demand for quicker and more effective treatment solutions is increasingly growing. Although ketamine does come with certain risks, its therapeutic advantage may well outweigh these concerns.
This drug has shown promising results in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions, including suicidal ideation, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorder. Ketamine can be highly effective in treating depression and other mental health disorders when other therapies have been ineffective.
But how long does ketamine work for depression? Research indicates ketamine therapy can provide rapid relief from depressive symptoms, with many patients reporting improvement in their symptoms within hours to days after treatment, with effects lasting up to 14 days. Every person is different and will have varying lasting effects from ketamine therapy for depression. Most patients require multiple infusion sessions to experience symptom relief, lasting from one week to seven to eight weeks or longer. Many continue receiving “booster” infusions every month or two. In Florida, WhiteSands Treatment’s team of experts will closely monitor your progress while you receive ketamine for mental health and addiction treatment and make adjustments as needed.
How Does Ketamine Work for Depression?
Understanding how ketamine works in the brain can help enhance our understanding of its mental health benefits. Ketamine works on a group of brain cell receptors called NMDA receptors, which interact with neurotransmitters such as glutamate. When these neurons stay in an excitatory state for too long, they begin to die off, resulting in conditions like depression and anxiety. Ketamine works directly to block NMDA receptor signals, allowing the brain to create new pathways and synapses. This process provides the brain with an opportunity to recover from previous injuries or illnesses, effectively alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
Medically supervised ketamine infusion therapy has been shown to reactivate existing connections in the brain and grow new ones, helping the brain to let go of negative thoughts and move away from depression. Infusions are recommended as part of a series tailored to each patient’s needs. Often, some therapy is also recommended to help build healthier coping strategies.
What Is the Best Treatment for Depression?
Ketamine therapy for depression might seem like a miracle solution; however, it may not be the best treatment for everyone. It’s not typically the first option for treating depression or other mental health disorders; rather, it’s often considered when other methods have failed. Every person experiences depression differently, and there is no universal treatment. What may be beneficial for one person may be ineffective for another.
There are several treatment options available for depressive disorders, and often, the most effective approach combines various methods. Therapy and counseling can help patients with depression by teaching strategies to cope with negative thoughts and difficult experiences. Therapists also offer emotional support and help patients gain greater insight into their symptoms. There are several types of therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. A therapist will try various therapies to find which resonate best with the patient.
Antidepressants are frequently prescribed to help manage depression, and there are various types available. A person may need to try different ones before they find one that works for them. Alongside therapy and medication, holistic approaches like acupuncture, meditation, and mindfulness can be effective tools in helping to alleviate depression. Additionally, incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a nutritious diet, taking vitamin supplements, and enjoying time outdoors are beneficial lifestyle adjustments when addressing depression.
WhiteSands Treatment Can Help If You’re Wondering How Long Does Ketamine Work for Depression
Now that you understand how long does ketamine work for depression, let’s explain WhiteSands Treatment’s comprehensive treatment programs for depression and other mental health disorders when you turn to us for help with overcoming addiction. Our team provides effective solutions for depression through a combination of therapy, medication management, and holistic treatments. As a treatment center dedicated to drug and alcohol addiction recovery, we assist people who primarily struggle with substance use disorder and may also experience co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression. Our team of specialists is equipped to treat dual-diagnosis cases and provide comprehensive treatment plans to overcome addiction and co-occurring mental health issues. We offer a full spectrum of care, including inpatient rehab, outpatient options, and aftercare programs designed to meet each patient’s unique needs. As part of our continued care, our team can locate ketamine infusion centers for depression in Florida if you do not respond to traditional depression treatment methods. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse and depression, please do not hesitate to call us today at 877-855-3470.
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.
