Ketamine Treatment

Ketamine treatment is gaining recognition as an innovative remedy for mental illness, functioning quite differently from traditional options. It has been extensively studied in clinical trials for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Research indicates that ketamine improves mental wellness by actively targeting the brain, promoting its ability to heal itself. For millions of individuals experiencing treatment-resistant symptoms, ketamine offers a new avenue for healing and relief, going beyond mere symptom management.

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What is Ketamine?

Ketamine received its initial FDA approval in 1970 and was primarily recognized as an anesthetic medication at the time. It quickly found use in medical settings, including battlefield applications during the Vietnam War, due to its rapid onset, short duration of action and exceptional safety profile. In recent years, ketamine has gained attention for its potential in mental health treatment, particularly for mood disorders such as depression, PTSD and anxiety. Unlike traditional antidepressants, the effects of ketamine can often be observed quickly, making it a valuable option for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments.

The Mechanisms Behind Ketamine

Many traditional medications offer only short-term relief, often just dulling symptoms rather than addressing the underlying issues. In contrast, ketamine targets the root cause of mental illness: the mind. Research from Yale has shown that ketamine stimulates the production of glutamate, a powerful neurotransmitter released by nerve cells that plays a crucial role in forming new neural connections. Under optimal conditions, glutamate significantly contributes to memory and learning. Dr. John Krystal from Yale Medicine explains, “With most medications, like Valium, the anti-anxiety effect lasts only while the drug is in your system. Once it wears off, rebound anxiety can occur.” He further highlights the uniqueness of ketamine, stating, “When you take ketamine, it triggers reactions in your cortex that promote the regrowth of brain connections. It’s the reaction to ketamine, not its presence in the body, that produces its effects.”

Benefits of Ketamine Treatment

  • Enhances mental wellness
  • Provides rapid relief
  • Rewires and reconnects neural pathways
  • Directly addresses psychological factors
  • Effective for treatment-resistant symptoms
  • Offers a new option for various mental health conditions and disorders

Why is Ketamine an Effective Therapeutic?

High Success Rate

Research indicates a high success rate for patients receiving ketamine therapy. In one study, over half of the participants reported significant relief after just one treatment, with many experiencing even greater improvements following multiple infusions.

Quick Onset of Action

Unlike SSRIs, ketamine’s effects can be felt much sooner. Patients often report feeling better within just a few sessions, and sometimes even within hours of treatment. This rapid onset makes ketamine an appealing choice for those seeking immediate relief from their symptoms.

Long-Lasting Relief

In addition to its rapid effects, ketamine provides longer-lasting results. Traditional antidepressants only work while the patient is taking them daily, but ketamine can offer relief for weeks or even months. This therapy promotes brain changes that lead to sustained improvement, rather than simply masking symptoms.

A typical treatment plan consists of six infusions over several weeks, with Kelevate monitoring your progress and recommending booster infusions as necessary.

What to Expect

Ketamine treatments are administered through infusions that last between 40 to 60 minutes per session. These infusions are closely monitored and take place in comfortable, controlled environments. While patients may experience an altered state of mind, they remain conscious and able to communicate. Typically, a course consists of 6 to 10 infusions. Each treatment is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist, who is well-versed in the use of ketamine.

Potential Side Effects

Receiving ketamine infusions can be nerve-wracking, but there’s no need to worry—our team will support you every step of the way. You won’t be alone at any point during your treatment.
While ketamine treatments are generally very safe, there are some potential side effects and risks to be aware of, including:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • An altered state of consciousness that may feel uncomfortable for some
  • Long-term use at high doses may lead to certain lower urinary tract condition known as interstitial cystitis
  • Hallucinations and distortions of time and space
  • Persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms may occur if combining ketamine with other mood-altering substances (such as alcohol, opioids, or cannabis), which is not recommended.
  • Possible increases in blood pressure and heart rate

It’s common to feel fatigued afterward, so please arrange for a driver to take you home. You can expect to start feeling relief within an hour of your session.

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