3 Things to Know About Ketamine Treatment

Ketamine was approved by the FDA in 2019 as a potent treatment for depression. Since then, ketamine clinics have begun to open across the country. This innovative depression treatment is offered as a nasal spray or IV infusion in a controlled, guided setting. Ketamine has been shown to work especially well for treatment-resistant depression. Here are a few of the biggest things to know about ketamine treatment for depression.

You Will Likely Need to Try Other Treatments First

It's important to know that not everyone with depression gets approved to try this unique treatment option. For now, only severe cases of depression and PTSD are qualifying for ketamine treatment in most states. You will most likely be required to have already tried other forms of treatment, including therapy and anti-depressant prescription medication.

This is good news, though. If you try these other treatments and they work, then you are in much better shape than you were before. And if they don't, you are likely to qualify for ketamine therapy.

Ketamine Treatments Work Quickly

Traditional anti-depressants take weeks or even months to begin to work, which can feel like a lifetime when you are suffering from depression. Many people also find that they have to try a few different types of antidepressants before finding the one that works best for them, making the entire process even longer.

Ketamine works rapidly, with many people feeling relief from their depression the day of the treatment. The effects last long-term, meaning you may never need another ketamine treatment, or find that you feel best with occasional treatments.

Ketamine Works in Conjunction With Other Treatments

Ketamine treatment often works best in conjunction with other treatments. For example, it may make your anti-depressant medication work more effectively. In addition, processing any trauma or other emotional difficulties you've experienced with a therapist will only enhance the benefits you receive from ketamine.

Many ketamine clinics offer ketamine treatments along with therapy both before and after your treatment. This can also help you process any unusual experiences you have during your ketamine treatment, such as a feeling of leaving your body. With the help of a trained therapist, you can make sense of your experience while on ketamine.

If this sounds appealing to you, be sure to schedule a consultation with a doctor at a local ketamine clinic. They will go over your psychiatric history and help determine if you are a good candidate for this unique treatment option for depression.