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Ketamine has the power to transform your mental health. Ketamine has been associated with anesthesia or party scenes. However, it is emerging as a powerful tool for improving mood, pain, and wellbeing. sleep disorders. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind ketamine, its benefits, and how it’s revolutionizing mental health care.
What is Ketamine
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), ketamine is a “dissociative anesthetic that has some Hallucinogenic effects.” In the medical field, it’s a preferred sedation medication because of its low risk of respiratory depression. It sedates the patient without causing airway spasms. Even so, healthcare professionals often give ketamine with other general anesthetics, like nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”).
Ketamine can be found in different forms. Ketamine can be administered via intramuscular infusion, intravenous (IV-form), orally, or intranasal spray. Intranasal sprays are an accessible and convenient option. So, patients can self-administer it under medical supervision. It allows more people to have access to ketamine treatment, even if there is no ketamine center nearby.
Ketamine is known by many different names on the streets. Examples include “Special K,” “Super K,” “Kit Kat,” and even “Vitamin K.” Those who use it recreationally claim a ketamine tripIt is much better than PCP or LSD. They say it’s because the hallucinations don’t last very long, only 30 to 60 minutes rather than several hours.
Recently, the field psychiatry has begun to promote ketamine as a treatment for certain mental conditions. In specialized centers for infusions, medical professionals closely monitor the patients to ensure their safety. They also make sure the treatment is tailored to each individual’s needs. Infusion treatment usually involves several sessions spread out over a couple of weeks. Follow-up sessions are also necessary to maintain the positive effects.
Ketamine can be helpful for people who are suffering from depression, OCD and PTSD.
What is the Ketamine Effect?
Ketamine works primarily by blocking the NMDA-receptor pores in the brain. It inhibits glutamate’s binding to receptors while increasing glutamate. This neurotransmitter has a vital role in the creation of new neural pathways. This means that it can form new pathways in your brain.
Ketamine can also affect opioid receptors by interacting with glutamate. Ketamine blocks the NMDA-receptors and increases opioids in the body (like morphine). These opioids can activate and bind to opioid receptors. This results in pain relief.
Ketamine – Uses
Ketamine was originally developed in the 1960s as an anesthetic. Its purpose was to change Neurotransmitter activity. Ketamine has a rapid onset of action, unlike traditional antidepressants that can take several weeks. Patients soon find that it relieves depression, anxiety and other symptoms.
Even PTSD.
Anxiety and Depression
Ketamine has also been used as a treatment for patients who are resistant to other treatments. Depression and anxiety.It can reduce depression and anxiety symptoms quickly when other treatments fail.
Its fast-acting response can be particularly beneficial for those who are so depressed they’ve have lost the will to live. This can help them quickly take back control of their life. In fact, some experts describe it as a “reset button” for the brain because it breaks negative thought patterns. It also gives you the chance to start over.
Esketamine, also known as Spravato, is the only form of ketamine FDA-approved to treat depression. It’s in the form of a nasal spray and is given at a clinic, where a healthcare professional watches the patient for any adverse effects. Since ketamine is used for depression, it’s considered off-label. Health Insurance won’t usually cover it for this purpose.
Chronic Pain
Ketamine is also effective in treating acute pain. Chronic pain, including conditions like fibromyalgia. Ketamine, as mentioned above, may reduce pain by activating the opioid receptors within the body. This can lead to a morphine like effect. A 2020 review also suggested other receptors like AMPA might be involved in ketamine’s ability to reduce pain.
PTSD
Ketamine is also promising in the treatment of post-traumatic disorder (PTSD). By altering fear responses, ketamine could help patients safely process traumatic memories, reducing emotional distress. Traumas of the past. In a small review involving randomized clinical trials, ketamine was found to improve PTSD symptoms rapidly and effectively.
Obsessive Compulsive (OCD) Disorder
Ketamine can also improve OCD. It’s still unknown exactly how ketamine helps OCD. Ketamine may also act as a NMDA receptor blocker. Ketamine can help restore glutamate balance, which may help reduce symptoms of anxiety. OCD symptoms. Researchers found that low doses of ketamine were effective and acted quickly. A 2022 systematic review confirmed ketamine’s “fast onset of action and good tolerability.”
Ketamine: Side Effects
It’s best to start ketamine with a lower dose until you know how your body will react. The following are other possible side effects that can occur with high doses.
- Heart rate increases
- High blood pressure
- Slurred Speech
- Confusion
- Anxiety or panic
- Hallucinations
- Flashbacks
- Memory loss
- Liver and urinary toxicity
Too much ketamine may temporarily cause you to feel detached from your body. Some people refer to this feeling as “falling into a K-hole.” Others describe it as feeling like a “near-death” experience.
Ketamine contraindications
Ketamine isn’t for everyone with mental health conditions. Ketamine could make psychosis or schizophrenia worse for those who have a history. Ketamine can also increase blood pressure and heartbeat. Those with high blood pressure and Heart ConditionsYou should consult a physician first.
Additionally, it’s important to note that ketamine is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Before trying ketamine, anyone with a compromised liver or kidneys is advised to consult their doctor. You may only need a small dose, not the full strength. It is also important to note that ketamine may increase the pressure inside your eyes if you have glaucoma.
It is dangerous to mix ketamine and alcohol, or other drugs such as benzodiazepines and opiates. Under the supervision of your doctor, you should only take ketamine in conjunction with other medications. Otherwise, it could cause adverse reactions. Addicts who are undergoing ketamine treatment should be closely monitored.
It also goes without saying that anyone with allergies to ketamine or any of its constituents shouldn’t take ketamine. It could be more harmful than helpful.
Ketamine Final Thoughts
Despite ketamine’s great potential, it is always best to use this drug under medical supervision. Self-administration of ketamine or its recreational use can cause adverse effects.
Personality, psychedelic-assisted therapy was an important part of my life. My healing experienceIn overcoming my PTSD, I also found that they helped me with my autoimmune disease. They’re not for everyone though in every situation. If you’re interested in trying ketamine it’s best to find a healthcare professional to guide you through the process. So you can make the best decisions for your physical and mental well-being.
I’ve had several podcast guests who’ve discussed ketamine therapy and psychedelic medicine. Listen to these episodes here.
Has anyone in your family or circle of friends tried ketamine to treat these conditions? Was it helpful to you? Tell us what you think!
