What is Ketamine?
Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic in the 1960s, has become a new, promising treatment for various mental health conditions, particularly depression. This powerful medication works differently from traditional antidepressants, targeting the glutamate system in the brain, which plays a crucial role in mood regulation.
Schedule a ConsultationHow Can Ketamine Improve Your Mental Health?
Ketamine therapy has been a game-changer in the field of mental health, particularly for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. By targeting the glutamate system, ketamine can rapidly reduce depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts, providing relief when other treatments have failed.
Moreover, ketamine has shown promise in treating other mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Its ability to “reset” dysfunctional neural pathways has led some researchers to liken it to a “software upgrade” for the brain.
Why is Ketamine Effective?
High Success Rate
Current studies show promising results for ketamine. Research indicates that more than half of patients experience relief after even one treatment session, with further improvement seen with repeated administrations. The FDA has authorized Spravato, a ketamine nasal spray, for depression, which we offer at our ketamine clinic.
Fast and Longer Lasting Results
Results achieved through ketamine treatment often extend beyond the active treatment period. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which require daily intake to maintain effectiveness, ketamine treatment typically involves six injections over several weeks, followed by long-term monitoring. Additional infusions might be needed after completing all treatment sessions.
Efficacy of Ketamine for Depression
Numerous studies have proven the efficacy of ketamine for depression. A meta-analysis posted in the American Magazine of Psychiatry determined that ketamine became extensively more effective than a placebo in lowering depressive symptoms, and it is highly used.
What to Expect During a Ketamine Treatment
Our team will closely monitor you during ketamine treatment. Some people prefer to be alone for most of the experience, while others prefer our therapists to be with them the entire time.
Although infusions with Spravato provide a “deeper” experience, ketamine-assisted healing is generally slower and aims to break down barriers to healing. For example, some people compare ketamine-assisted therapy to “a year of healing at the same time.”
Although some patients experience side effects during treatment, such as floating feelings and hallucinations, these are mild and only disappear after treatment is completed Ketamine does raise blood pressure, so usually uncontrolled hypertension will need to be addressed before treatment is initiated.
It is also expected to experience fatigue or headaches after completion, so patients receiving ketamine should not go home on their own. Many patients feel better after the first session, albeit more frequently, and must complete their series to remain profitable.
Ketamine Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
Ketamine therapy presents a promising approach for treating anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and PTSD. This therapy uses low-dose ketamine to modulate brain pathways regulating mood and emotional processing. Ketamine has shown potential for relieving anxiety symptoms and providing lasting relief, especially for those who haven’t responded well to traditional treatments.
Ketamine Treatment Options
There are multiple methods of therapy with ketamine, each with its very own blessings and considerations. The two most common methods are ketamine infusion therapy and Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray.
Ketamine Infusion Therapy
One of the common ways of ketamine treatment is ketamine infusion therapy. A slow, continuous ketamine IV therapy or ketamine infusion is delivered directly into your bloodstream for maximum bioavailability. A series of short sessions can provide you with a profound experience with lasting effects for reducing depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Spravato Esketamine Nasal Spray
Spravato is a prescription nasal spray that contains esketamine, a form of ketamine. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment-resistant depression, Spravato allows for at-home administration, making it a more convenient option for some patients. However, it must be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
At-Home Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Low-dose ketamine combined with psychotherapy can break down barriers to success—all in the comfort of your own home under the virtual guidance of our therapists. Additionally, as part of our holistic Intensive Outpatient Program, you’ll have access to specially trained therapists and exclusive integration classes.
The Benefits of Ketamine Treatment
Less Reliance on Analgesics
One benefit of ketamine treatment is that there is less need for analgesics. This is a massive advantage because the likelihood of developing tolerance and complications increases with chronic drug use. By reducing reliance on analgesics, ketamine can improve treatment outcomes while minimizing risks of dependence and adverse effects.
Healing Treatment-Resistant Depression
For those with severe, persistent depressive episodes that don’t respond to typical antidepressants, ketamine can provide quick and significant improvement in mood and outlook. Ketamine seems to restore brain connections and neurotransmitter systems disrupted by depression.
Treating Anxiety and Trauma Disorders
Ketamine shows great promise for treating PTSD, OCD, and other anxiety disorders. It can reduce the severity of symptoms like intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors. Ketamine helps rewire brain circuits involved in fear and anxious responses.
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Find Relief with Ketamine Therapy at Bespoke Treatment
If you reside in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Santa Monica and are searching for “ketamine treatment near me”, Bespoke Treatment is the right place for you. Contact our mental health clinic and let your mind heal.
Get StartedProgressive Mental Health Treatments
If you’re exploring ketamine therapy and have been searching for “ketamine therapy near me”, your solution is right here. Bespoke Treatment specializes in personalized mental health care using alternative treatments for mental health conditions, such as ketamine for depression and ketamine for anxiety. Although ketamine can offer effective results, it might not be the right fit for everyone. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists can help you determine the best treatment plan for you or your loved one. You can find our mental health services, including ketamine treatment, in our mental health clinics in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Las Vegas. Get in touch with us to schedule a consultation and start your recovery journey.
