Ketamine Therapy for Depression
Depression affects over 20 million adults in the US. 30% of them do not respond to traditional psychiatric treatment.
How Ketamine Treats Depression
Traditional antidepressants regulate serotonin and norepinephrine, chemicals that affect mood. In contrast, ketamine blocks the so-called NMDA receptor in the brain. This increases the neurotransmitter glutamate, promoting the growth of new neural connections and potentially leading to lasting changes in brain function. Ketamine also affects other receptors to quickly stabilize mood, offering rapid relief compared to the slower effect of traditional antidepressants.
Recent research shows that ketamine therapy for depression is a promising treatment, especially for those suffering from treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
What Is Depression?
Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think and act. Approximately 9.5% of American adults suffer from a depressive illness. Depression can strike anyone at any age, but usually begins in the late teens to mid-20s. The most common symptoms are:
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or a sense of emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or weight (eating significantly more or less)
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering things
- Restlessness or slowed movements and speech
- Feelings of worthlessness, thoughts of death and self-harm or suicide attempts
For a diagnosis of depression, these symptoms need to persist for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.
How Is Depression Treated?
The Process: Treating Depression with Ketamine
Consultation
Treatment
Treatment
Sessions
Rapid Relief for Depression
Feel better in just hours to days.
What Our Patients Say
“Very friendly, compassionate, inviting clinic to take your newfound journey. I love coming to my appointments here!“
“Warm and welcoming environment. Lovely and caring staff ❤️ Ketamine is working for me! My depression had started to impact my quality of life and ketamine is helping me with energy levels, the lethargy has diminished, and I am able to think more clearly. Less brain fog. Anyone severely depressed might want to consider Ketamine treatments.”
Research
FAQs
Is ketamine therapy safe?
Yes, when administered under medical supervision by trained physicians, ketamine therapy is safe. At KETA Medical, our team is led by emergency medicine physicians with extensive training, ensuring that every treatment adheres to the highest standards of medical safety.
What are the potential side effects of ketamine therapy?
Side effects may include mild nausea, dizziness, feelings of dissociation, anxiety or increased blood pressure. These typically resolve shortly after the treatment session. Our medical team monitors patients closely to manage any side effects effectively.
Is ketamine treatment covered by insurance?
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Call our offices
We know life is busy, so at Keta Medical Center, we offer evening and weekend hours to fit your schedule. Our friendly administrative staff is always available to answer your questions and address any concerns. Our goal is to support you as you embark on your mental health journey with ketamine therapy.