In recent years, the use of ketamine for curing depression has shown promising results. Among the treatment indications oradell, an unconventional yet promising contender, has gained traction. Not only does ketamine treat depression, but it also treats anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. As interest in consuming ketamine increases, so do concerns about it’s side effects. In this blog, we will learn about ketamine as a treatment for depression and about its safety and side effects.
Ketamine treats depression by activating a chemical in the brain called glutamate. Inactivation of glutamate in our brains can give birth to depression symptoms. In short, it plays a major role in mood regulation.
Safety considerations:
- The way ketamine is developed is as an anesthetic, which has been administered in medical settings for decades.
- Before treating a certain individual, a medical evaluation is done, which helps identify any pre-existing condition or medication that can disrupt the treatment. This step helps us know whether a certain individual is suitable for ketamine or not.
- One of the most remarkable features of taking ketamine is the rapid relief sensation. Other anti-depressants may take several days to show their effects, but ketamine shows its efficacy within hours or a day.
As its safety considerations are decisive, so do the side effects it has.
- Psychosis
It is related to dreams and hallucinations. Some individuals have been through this after taking the ketamine, but its effect is short-lived and disappears as the treatment wears off.
- Changes in blood pressure and heart rate
Ketamine is also effective in a way that after it is infusion, there may be a short-term increase in blood pressure and heart rate. However, the work is still in progress to ensure safety from this change.
- Nausea and Vomiting
It was also seen in some individuals who may have suffered from mild nausea or sometimes vomiting. But it is nothing serious; reports state that it happened due to interaction with some other anti-nausea medications.
- Dissociation
Dissociation is a feeling that has been detected during the process, where one feels disconnected from his body, feelings, and also from his surroundings. While this can be disconcerting, it is said that “dissociation is a normal part of ketamine infusion,” and its temporary.
Ketamine effects are probably short-term. No long-term side effects have been found yet. Ketamine is a promising treatment for individuals who have suffered from depression, OCD, and bipolar disorders. However, this treatment should be done under the guidance of a good healthcare provider.
Contact a qualified healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks of ketamine therapy.