Ketamine Infusion Therapy from a Psychiatrist for Depression

If you struggle with depression, ketamine infusion therapy might be the right answer. Of all health problems, this is one of the most serious. Not only does it affect the mind but also the body. Sadly, more than 50% of people do not respond to traditional medication and treatment. Rather than be a part of that statistic, talk to a psychiatrist about this infusion therapy.

Why do people suffer from depression?

Multiple things trigger depression. These factors also determine its severity and longevity. When someone struggles with this, they should see a psychiatrist who treats patients with depression. Sometimes, individuals can avoid or prevent this by knowing the cause. Even then, most need medical intervention. Below are a few examples of the most common triggers:

• Abuse – Whether mental, verbal, sexual, or physical, abuse is directly linked to the onset and continuance of depression
• Loss of a loved one – Losing a close friend or family member is another huge trigger. For many people, the death of a pet also leads to depression
• Divorce – The length of the marriage does not matter. When the union falls apart, it is common for couples to feel depressed
• Medication – Pharmaceutical companies issue warnings on medication due to possible side effects, including depression. A few examples are corticosteroids and interferon-alpha prescribed as an antiviral medication

What is ketamine infusion therapy?

A psychiatrist can prescribe ketamine infusion therapy for anyone. However, it is often used for patients with more severe cases. The interesting thing is that around 1960, medics gave ketamine to soldiers on the battlefield. Doctors used it when performing surgery as well. Once administered, it produces sensory and visual distortions. Most people describe the sensation as euphoric.

After many extensive studies, researchers discovered that ketamine lessened the effects of depression. For patients undergoing ketamine infusion therapy, the frequency and severity of symptoms decreased. Many of these individuals tried almost every traditional treatment but without any relief. For a lot of them, this alternative treatment made all the difference.

Depending on the cause and intensity of a patient’s depression, a psychiatrist will use one of two types of ketamine. The first is racemic, which doctors typically administer intravenously for ketamine infusion therapy. The second is esketamine, administered as a nasal spray. There are two major differences. The FDA approved the racemic type decades ago, while it only approved the esketamine type this past March. Also, racemic consists of the “R” and “S” molecules, whereas esketamine just has the “S.”

Ketamine infusion therapy only targets and binds the brain’s NMDA receptors. This increases glutamate, a neurotransmitter that resides between neurons. That prompts the AMPA receptor to release molecules so neurons can communicate along healthy pathways. With ketamine infusion therapy, someone with depression experiences lightened moods and thought processes.

The appointment

The doctor will see the patient for a comprehensive interview about the patient’s medical and mental histories. The doctor will review the medical records. Basing the treatment duration, uptake rate, and dosage on the patient’s weight will follow. The doctor will check the treatment schedule with the patient. The ketamine infusion therapy will take about 90 to 120 minutes per session.

The patient will receive the treatment in a private room. A therapist or someone close to the patient may stay in the same room during the session. Avoiding a conversation with the patient is important. This will maintain a relaxing atmosphere. Soft music can make the room more calming. The healthcare professionals will use one arm for the infusion and the other for keeping an eye on the vital signs.

The side effects

A small dosage of ketamine will enter the patient’s body during every session. The patient will be awake at all times. There is often fatigue after the session. Someone should take the patient home when the doctor says so.

There could be nausea and dizziness. The doctor can give the patient anti-nausea medication before or even during the treatment. This will help counter the side effects. Dissociation can also happen. It is like an out-of-body experience.

Ketamine infusion therapy does not trigger fearfulness. Fear may only happen if the patient was fearful before the treatment. The patient must know that the treatment area is a haven. The licensed healthcare providers will keep an eye on the patient for any adjustments.

Consider this therapy for your depression

If nothing else helps, talk to a psychiatrist about ketamine infusion therapy. It works for many people and could for you too. There is no reason to struggle in your everyday life. Now is the time to act so you can overcome this particular challenge.

Request an appointment here: https://futurepsychsolutions.com or call Future Psych Solutions at (803) 335-5232 for an appointment in our Columbia office.

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