Ketamine is an anesthetic that has been safely used in humans for more than 50 years. Ketamine is also routinely used in veterinary anesthesia applications. It was approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as an anesthetic in 1970. It rapidly became a mainstay in anesthesia applications all over the world due to its safety and its ability to create exceptional analgesia and sedation, even general anesthesia, while not depressing respirations or hemodynamics like many other anesthetics. These properties also made ketamine a mainstay in battlefield medicine and even for many pregnant women who required general anesthesia for delivery. It is also fast-acting.
Ketamine is an NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonist and an AMPA receptor stimulant. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) increases when AMPA receptors are stimulated. Synapses are vital connections between nerve cells called neurons. Research suggests that major depressive disorder and other mood disorders, sleep difficulties, over-stimulation, and disturbances of focus can occur when the synapses are deficient or damaged. BDNF has been shown to stimulate the formation of new receptors and synapses creating a benefit in many individuals who receive ketamine infusion therapy.
Another of the brain's key neurotransmitters is glutamate. An amino acid, glutamate is found in the vast majority of neurons. Glutamate also influences the vital connections, synapses, between neurons. Glutamate works in tandem with another important neurotransmitter, GABA, to maintain the nervous system in tip-top condition. An imbalance with glutamate or GABA can cause problems, including anxiety, difficulties with sleep, as well as issues with focus and over-stimulation. An imbalance like this in the glutaminergic system can result in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). There is growing evidence that suggests another of the ways that ketamine works in mood disorders is by antagonizing or blocking the NMDA receptors.
Over the last 20+ years, positive results in research and studies of ketamine infusion therapy has created a gradual expansion of the types of uses for ketamine outside those in anesthesia. Ketamine has shown promise in treating major depression, and refractory depression. Refractory, or treatment resistant depression is depression that has not responded well to other treatments, including oral medications. With the positive benefits often seen in treating depression, the use of the drug has expanded further into other non-traditonal uses, such as for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bi-Polar Disorders I & II, even suicidal ideations or other thoughts of self-harm.
If you or a loved one is suffering from depression, another mood disorder, or chronic pain, contact us today to learn if ketamine infusion therapy may be an option.
Disclaimer: Neither Help Specialist, its physicians or staff make any representations or warranties either expressed or implied regarding Ketamine infusion therapy or any therapy or service we provide. While we are confident the services provide are safe and potentially effective, Ketamine and some other services we provide are prescribed off label and have not been approved by the FDA for some uses. As with any medical treatment, results will vary.
Counselors Providing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
***Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is a leading edge therapy and may be a great addition to your counseling services offerings. Give us a call or email today to learn the amazing things KAP can do for your clients and your practice.***