Ketamine is an anesthetic that's been used to sedate humans and pets for decades. In recent years, it’s also been used as a fast-acting treatment for depression and other mental health conditions.

This article will explain everything you need to know about ketamine infusions.

What are ketamine infusions used for?

Ketamine infusions can help with a number of psychiatric and mental health conditions. However, it is most commonly used for treatment-resistant depression, a form of major depressive disorder. If you have tried over two antidepressant treatments and have not responded well, you likely have treatment-resistant depression.

There are several other conditions that ketamine infusions may help with, including:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Chronic pain
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Suicidal ideation

Benefits of ketamine infusions

If you have tried antidepressants before, you know that it can take up to six weeks to start seeing the full effect of the medicine. But someone who is experiencing major depressive disorder does not have the luxury of waiting weeks for the treatment to kick in.

It’s believed that ketamine infusions work by inducing the production of glutamate, a neurotransmitter in the brain. The increase in glutamate leads the brain to form new connections and repair damaged ones, increasing its adaptability. As new neural pathways are created, it allows you to have more positive thoughts and behaviors.

What to know about ketamine infusions and treatment

In general, ketamine infusion is delivered at a lower dosage than if you would get it as an anesthetic. However, some of the side effects can be similar. These include:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Double vision
• Drowsiness
• Confusion

Who ketamine isn’t for

While ketamine infusions are tolerated by many, there are several factors at play that may determine your eligibility to take it. One is that there are medical conditions such as aneurysms that would keep patients from receiving ketamine. Another example is if you are alcohol intoxicated or have high blood pressure, you will likely not be able to receive ketamine infusions.

Other techniques

Ketamine infusions tend to be the best way for the body to absorb the treatment. But it’s not the only way. Which one you choose may depend on your preferred setting and the price.

• Ketamine infusions: These are typically delivered intravenously in a hospital or clinical setting and usually last just over half an hour.
• Intramuscular: A single shot of ketamine is injected into your muscles in a hospital or office setting.
• Nasal: There are two types of nasal ketamine. The first is Spravato, which must be administered in a doctor’s office, as you will need to be monitored for side effects for two hours after taking it. The other option is getting a ketamine nose spray at a pharmacy, where they mix it to your own needs, as determined by your doctor.

Contact the Bella Jace Center to learn more about Ketamine Infusions!

As one of Tennessee’s premier mental health service providers, we’re proud to offer ketamine infusions. Our highly trained providers assist patients in enhancing their mental well-being through numerous supportive approaches. We utilize this groundbreaking ketamine treatment for various mental health issues, including depression and PTSD.

Our passion is helping clients find solutions perfectly tailored to their needs, and we serve patients from 8 years old through adulthood. No matter what issue you might struggle with, we’re confident we can help you work through it. Learn more about our ketamine treatments online, or contact us with any questions you may have about our services.