What Is Ketamine Therapy
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Ketamine therapy has quickly become one of the most discussed breakthroughs in modern mental-health treatment. Originally approved as an anesthetic, ketamine is now used—under strict medical supervision—to help patients with conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and certain forms of chronic pain.
If you're curious about how ketamine therapy works, whether it's safe, and what happens during treatment, this guide covers everything you need to know.
What Is Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine therapy refers to the medically supervised use of ketamine—either intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), orally, or via the FDA-approved nasal spray esketamine (Spravato)—to help relieve symptoms of severe or treatment-resistant mood disorders.
Unlike traditional antidepressants, which work on serotonin or norepinephrine, ketamine acts on the glutamate system, influencing the brain’s ability to form new connections.
How Ketamine Works in the Brain
Research shows that ketamine:
1. Increases Neuroplasticity
Ketamine helps the brain create new neural pathways—often described as a “reset” effect. Many patients report relief within hours.
2. Modulates the NMDA Receptor
Ketamine blocks NMDA receptors, which increases glutamate levels and activates AMPA receptors. This cascade is thought to be responsible for rapid mood improvements.
3. Reduces Suicidal Ideation Quickly
Clinical studies have shown ketamine can significantly reduce suicidal thoughts in the short term, which is a major reasonit’s used in controlled medical settings.
Who Is Ketamine Therapy For?
Ketamine therapy is typically recommended for individuals who have not found relief through conventional treatments.
Common conditions treated:
Treatment-resistant depression
Major depressive disorder
PTSD
Generalized anxiety disorder
OCD (in emerging research)
Chronic neuropathic pain
Patients must undergo screening to ensure medical suitability and safety.
What Happens During a Ketamine Treatment Session?
1. Pre-Session Screening
Clinics evaluate:
Mental-health history
Existing medications
Physical health
Treatment goals
2. Administration of Ketamine
This varies by clinic, but common methods include:
IV infusion (most common)
IM injection
Sublingual lozenges (in some therapeutic settings)
Esketamine nasal spray (Spravato) – FDA-approved and administered in certified clinics
3. Monitoring
Patients are monitored throughout the session by trained medical staff to ensure safety.
4. The Experience
Effects typically begin within minutes and may include:
Dissociation
Altered perception
Deep introspection
Emotional processing
These effects subside shortly after the session ends.
5. Integration
Many clinics include therapy or integration sessions afterward to help patients process insights and reinforce long-term benefits.
Is Ketamine Therapy Safe?
When administered medically and legally, ketamine therapy has a strong safety record. However, it is not appropriate for everyone.
Possible side effects include:
Nausea
Temporary increase in blood pressure
Dissociation
Mild dizziness
Fatigue
Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, certain heart conditions, or active substance misuse may not be good candidates.
How Many Sessions Do Patients Need?
Many treatment plans include an initial series of 4–6 sessions over two to three weeks, followed by maintenance treatments as needed.
How Much Does Ketamine Therapy Cost?
Costs vary by clinic, but general ranges include:
IV ketamine: $350–$800 per session
Esketamine (Spravato): Often partially or fully covered by insurance
Oral or IM ketamine: Usually less expensive than IV
Insurance typically covers Spravato more often than IV ketamine.
Choosing a Legitimate Ketamine Clinic
A reputable clinic should offer:
Medical professionals on-site
Screening assessments
Clear treatment protocols
Integration therapy options
Transparent pricing
Avoid clinics that make unrealistic promises or lack licensed medical staff.
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