Why Ketamine Therapy is a Fast-Acting Solution for Acute Depression Episodes?

By Your Health Magazine

Depression is a serious mental health issue that affects millions of people in the world. For some, depression can come on suddenly, leading to acute episodes where they feel disturbed and unable to cope. Many treatments for depression, like antidepressant medications and therapy, take time to work. However, ketamine therapy is emerging as a fast-acting solution for people experiencing acute depression episodes.

Here we will discuss why ketamine works quickly, how it’s used in therapy, and what you should know if you’re considering it for yourself or a loved one.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a medication that was first used as an anesthetic for surgeries. However, over the past few decades, researchers discovered that it can also help treat mental health conditions like depression. Ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants, which is why it can provide relief faster than other treatments.

How Does Ketamine Work?

Ketamine affects a part of the brain known as the glutamate system. Glutamate is a chemical messenger in the brain that helps with learning and memory. Traditional antidepressants usually target serotonin or dopamine, but these can take weeks to affect mood. Ketamine, on the other hand, helps the brain form new connections much faster by increasing the production of glutamate. This is why people often experience relief from depressive symptoms within hours or days of treatment.

Who Can Benefit from Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine therapy is not for everyone, but it can be particularly helpful for:

People experiencing acute episodes of depression
Individuals with treatment-resistant depression
Those who are at risk of suicide
People who need rapid relief from depressive symptoms

It’s important to talk to your doctor if you’re considering ketamine therapy. They will help you determine if it’s the right option based on your health and treatment history.

Why Ketamine Is a Fast-Acting Solution for Depression

Depression can feel exhausting, especially when traditional treatments take weeks to work. For those in need of rapid relief, ketamine therapy offers a fast-acting solution, providing hope and help in just hours. Here is how:

Immediate Effects on the Brain

One of the main reasons ketamine works quickly is because it directly impacts the brain’s neural circuits. After a ketamine treatment, many people report feeling a “lift” in their mood within just a few hours. This is especially important for people experiencing acute depression, as they may be in crisis and need help right away.

Helps with Suicidal Thoughts

Acute depression often comes with thoughts of suicide or self-harm. Ketamine has been shown to reduce these thoughts much faster than other treatments. It is sometimes used in emergencies when someone is at immediate risk of suicide. The rapid improvement in mood can provide enough relief to give a person time to seek further help or begin a longer-term treatment plan.

Works When Other Treatments Fail

Some people with depression don’t respond to traditional treatments like antidepressants or therapy. This is called treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine therapy has shown promising results for people who haven’t had success with other medications. This makes it a valuable option for those who are struggling to find something that works.

How Is Ketamine Therapy Given?

Ketamine for depression is typically given in two ways:

Intravenous (IV) Infusion

This is the most common way ketamine is used to treat depression. The patient is given a controlled dose of ketamine through an IV, which allows the medication to enter the bloodstream quickly. The effects of the infusion can usually be felt within hours.

Nasal Spray

In 2019, the FDA approved a nasal spray form of ketamine called esketamine (brand name Spravato) for use in treatment-resistant depression. The nasal spray is usually administered in a doctor’s office under supervision. The effects are similar to IV infusion, though the treatment process is a bit different.

What to Expect During Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine therapy is typically administered in a clinic or hospital setting under the supervision of a trained medical professional. Leading mental health treatment centers, such as the Delray Center for Healing, provide expert care, ensuring the treatment is safe, effective, and according to each patient’s specific needs. This professional oversight helps maximize therapeutic benefits while minimizing risks. Here’s what you can expect:

Preparation: Before the treatment, your doctor will talk to you about what to expect and check your health to make sure ketamine is safe for you.

Treatment: During the infusion or nasal spray administration, you may feel a bit “out of it” or disconnected from your surroundings. This is normal and part of the experience.

Post-Treatment: After the treatment, you’ll be monitored for a short time to make sure you are feeling okay. You may feel a bit tired for a few hours afterward, but these effects usually wear off quickly.

Is Ketamine Safe?

Ketamine is generally considered safe when used under medical supervision. However, like any medication, there can be side effects. Some common side effects of ketamine therapy include:

Dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea
Confusion or disorientation
Changes in perception (hallucinations)

These side effects usually go away shortly after the treatment ends. Because of its potential for abuse, ketamine is classified as a controlled substance. This is why it is only given in a medical setting where professionals can monitor its use.

Things to Consider Before Starting Ketamine Therapy

Before starting ketamine therapy, it’s important to understand key factors like cost, potential side effects, and how it fits into your overall treatment plan for lasting mental health support.

Cost and Insurance: Ketamine therapy can be expensive, and not all insurance plans cover it. Make sure to check with your provider beforehand to avoid unexpected costs.

Not a Cure: While ketamine can provide fast relief, it is not a permanent cure for depression. Most people will need to continue therapy or medication to maintain their mental health. Ketamine is often used as part of a larger treatment plan.

Potential for Abuse: Because of ketamine’s history as a recreational drug, there is some potential for abuse. It’s important to use ketamine only under medical supervision and follow your doctor’s advice closely.

Conclusion

Ketamine therapy is a fast-acting solution for acute depression episodes, offering hope for people who need quick relief from severe symptoms. It works differently from traditional antidepressants, providing almost immediate effects on mood and reducing suicidal thoughts. While ketamine isn’t right for everyone, it can be a valuable option for those who have not found success with other treatments.

If you or a loved one are struggling with acute depression, it’s worth talking to a healthcare provider about whether ketamine therapy could be a helpful part of your treatment plan.