What is Ketamine Treatment?
Ketamine treatment, also known as ketamine therapy, involves the use of ketamine to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is typically administered intravenously or via an intramuscular injection.
Ketamine is a medication that is frequently employed as an anesthetic, typically in outpatient care or emergency departments because of its exceptional safety record. The use of ketamine in mental health treatment for depression and other related mental health conditions are still a relatively new area of research but early studies have shown promising results.
One of the benefits of ketamine treatment is that it can work quickly, often bringing about a noticeable improvement in symptoms within hours or days of treatment. This is in contrast to traditional antidepressant medications, which can take weeks or even months to begin to affect symptoms
IV and Intramuscular Ketamine Treatment
Ketamine can be delivered in various ways, and their effectiveness can vary. Oral preparations are generally less effective as they need to be metabolized by the digestive system. Sublingual administration (under the tongue) is also less effective but still very useful for specific patients. The effectiveness of intramuscular administration is comparable to IV infusion.
To summarize, the differences between these two methods can be outlined as follows:
IV infusion is the most effective and rapid method of delivery, delivering the full dose of ketamine directly into the bloodstream.
Intramuscular administration is slightly less effective than IV infusion but still provides rapid and strong effects.
Oral and sublingual administration are less effective and slower in onset since they need to pass through the digestive system.
IV Ketamine VS. Intramuscular Ketamine
Starting an IV infusion typically involves only one needle stick, while intramuscular injections may require multiple injections during a treatment session.
The dosage of IV infusion can be adjusted, reduced, or stopped in response to a patient’s reaction during treatment. In contrast, intramuscular administration cannot be adjusted or reversed after injection.
Some patients report that the symptom relief provided by IV infusions lasts longer between treatments compared to intramuscular injections. As a result, patients receiving intramuscular treatment may need to receive more frequent treatments.
The onset and recovery rate of the medication is also different between the two methods. Intramuscular injection has a rapid onset, which can be uncomfortable for some patients, and a slower recovery. In contrast, IV infusion has a more gradual onset and recovery.
If any adverse side effects occur during an intramuscular injection, reassurance and sometimes other medications may be necessary to counteract them and allow the medication to run its course since the administration cannot be stopped.
Both IV infusion and intramuscular administration of ketamine require supervision by a licensed, prescribing healthcare provider who has received specific training in the use of ketamine. Monitoring a patient’s vital signs throughout the treatment is also essential for ensuring their safety.
How Does Ketamine Treatment Work?
Ketamine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. NMDA receptors are a type of receptor in the brain that are involved in the transmission of pain signals and the regulation of mood and cognition. By blocking these receptors, ketamine may help to alleviate pain and improve mood.
In addition to its effects on NMDA receptors, ketamine also affects other brain chemicals, such as glutamate, serotonin, and dopamine. These chemicals are involved in the regulation of mood, motivation, and reward. By modulating the activity of these neurotransmitters, ketamine may help to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
Affordable Ketamine Infusion Therapy in San Diego
Our team is passionate about helping you find relief and gain resilience. That’s why we’ve partnered with Care Credit to offer flexible financing options. No one should suffer any longer without the help they deserve.
What To Expect During and After Ketamine Infusion Therapy
During IV treatments, patients receive Ketamine in a controlled, clinical environment under the close supervision of a healthcare provider. The treatment experience is often positive, with many patients noting a lift in mood disorders shortly after their first treatment. The next treatment will be scheduled based on your response to the initial treatment.
Spravato™ Treatment in San Diego
For those preferring a non-IV option, we offer Spravato™ treatment. Spravato™, or esketamine, is a medication used as a nasal spray and has similar antidepressant properties as Ketamine. Like IV therapy, the use of Ketamine in the form of Spravato™ also allows us to provide rapid antidepressant treatment for our patients. For those interested in Spravato™, please contact our clinic to learn more and sign up to be on our waiting list.
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, or KAP is a unique treatment method combines the powerful antidepressant effect of Ketamine with the proven benefits of psychotherapy. KAP sessions are conducted under the supervision of a professional who guides you through the Ketamine experience, enhancing its therapeutic effects.
Though we currently do not offer KAP, we will be offering this another treatment method in the near future.
Resilience Integrative Wellness is a premier provider of innovative ketamine infusion therapy for mental health and pain disorders. Our compassionate team of professionals is dedicated to providing personalized and comprehensive care to empower our patients to achieve optimal wellness. We take a different approach, providing patients with ample time, comfort, and attention to help them find the relief and quality of life they deserve. Discover how we can help you on your journey to wellness.
