Ketamine Use in Treating Mental Illness

Ketamine, one of the most commonly used anesthetic drugs, is showing promise as a viable treatment for depression, according to recent research. The drug works by blocking certain receptors in the brain. Since the 1960s it has been primarily used as a veterinary medicine but has recently gained popularity due to its potential clinical use in treating mental illness.

Researchers still do not know exactly why ketamine works so well for certain patients but are slowly unraveling the neurobiology of this interesting compound. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about ketamine use in treating mental illness, its potential effects on your mental health, including possible side effects and risks.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a veterinary drug that’s also used in human psychiatry as an anesthetic. It’s sometimes used as a club drug, though the use of ketamine in clinical research is mostly focused on its antidepressant properties. Ketamine is primarily used as an anesthetic. It’s most commonly administered as an intravenous injection. This is the most common route of administration because it leads to the fastest and most effective results, though individuals can also administer it orally or transdermally.

How Does Ketamine Work?

Ketamine causes changes in the brain that may relieve depression symptoms. It has other effects that may alleviate symptoms of conditions like obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. A 2006 study found that ketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptor. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor is a glutamate receptor and ion channel found in neurons which is responsible for transmitting signals between neurons. When the NMDA receptor is blocked, the brain receives less synaptic activity and the signals seem to calm down. This is likely what leads to the antidepressant effects of ketamine.

NMDA receptors play a role in memory formation. When NMDA receptors are blocked, the brain releases more glutamate, which helps alleviate depression and PTSD symptoms. These receptors are responsible for regulating your mood. When they’re blocked, you start to feel better—and fast! The effects can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days (and sometimes longer, depending on how much ketamine you take).

NMDA receptors are thought to play an important role in memory formation. When you take ketamine as part of your treatment plan for depression or PTSD, it may help prevent negative memories from forming or intensifying. This property makes it very useful for people who have suffered from traumatic events in their pasts and want to avoid reliving those experiences through flashbacks or nightmares.

Is It Safe To Use Ketamine For Depression?

Depression is a serious condition that many patients do not get relief from. However, ketamine for depression is safe when administered by a qualified professional. Most individuals who use ketamine for depression have not received this treatment before, which means they may experience side effects. These can include but are not limited to: changes in thoughts, feelings, or behavior, irritability and more. These side effects are relatively common and usually decrease after the first few weeks of treatment. If they persist, individuals should consult a psychiatrist or psychologist who can help them find the best treatment option.

Side Effects Of Ketamine For Depression

There are several side effects that have been reported with ketamine for depression, including: changes in thoughts, feelings, or behavior. Patients may feel like their mood has changed drastically, even if it’s for the better. This can also result in suicidal thoughts. Irritability – some individuals experience increased irritability that typically goes away after a while. Dry mouth – this is the most common side effect reported by individuals who use ketamine for depression. Blurred vision – this is a pretty common side effect, though it usually goes away after a few weeks of treatment. Sleepiness – ketamine causes drowsiness, so individuals may feel like they aren’t able to stay awake for long periods of time. Anxiety – this is a relatively common side effect among individuals who use ketamine for depression. All of the side effects will likely go away after a few weeks and rarely have long lasting impacts.

Would You Try Ketamine?

Ketamine has been used in veterinary medicine for decades, but recently it has become a popular treatment for depression. While there has been a lot of research done on ketamine and its potential benefits, there are still questions regarding the drug and its side effects. Ketamine causes changes in the brain that may relieve depression symptoms. It has other effects that may alleviate symptoms of conditions like OCD, PTSD, and substance abuse. There are several side effects that have been reported with ketamine for depression, including changes in thoughts, feelings, and behavior, irritability, dry mouth, blurred vision, drowsiness, and anxiety. 

If you are interested in using any drug for treatment of mental illness, only do so after you’ve discussed it with your doctor and therapist. And only do so in a clinic that you’ve researched and trust!

Have you used Ketamine or know anyone who has? Let me know your experience in a comment below!