Ketamine is a common anesthetic known for its dissociative properties and has been around since the 1960’s. When given to patients—human or animal—as an anesthetic during surgery, the medicine provides pain relief, though many therapists now use ketamine therapy to treat patients experiencing depression. Here’s what you need to know about this drug.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine has been used for its low-dose anesthetic properties since the 1960s, particularly in the Vietnam War. The drug disrupts how the chemical glutamate affects the nerve cells of the brain, which can cause a dissociative state. Its potency and hallucinogenic qualities made it a popular drug to abuse recreationally, but today, it's a Schedule III drug that may treat severe depression in controlled environments like psychiatric clinics. Many patients respond positively, and its effects are still being tested.

Are There Side Effects?

Ketamine is comparable to opioids in terms of addictive properties when used illegally. Illicit recreational use can cause disorientation, tachycardia, forgetfulness, and decreased coordination. In a controlled medical setting, however, ketamine side effects may include nausea, distorted sight or sound, drowsiness, loss of appetite, or an increase in blood pressure.  In a controlled medical setting it is used at a much lower dosage and delivery rate via intravenous infusion.

How Is It Used in Medical Settings?

Besides its primary purpose of easing pain, ketamine is a promising treatment for the 16 million adults experiencing major depression each year. The drug rapidly reduces subjects’ thoughts of suicide, unlike traditional treatments that can take weeks or even months to take effect. Patients typically receive a low dose of ketamine via IV or nasal mist once a week, and the results are profound. In addition to treating depression, the drug’s properties can also help control seizures—after other methods prove ineffective—and reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

For safe ketamine therapy, trust the professionals at Teresa M. Anderson, MD, in Cincinnati, OH. With more than 10 years of experience treating patients around the area, Dr. Anderson is well-equipped to help patients experiencing depression, OCD, postpartum depression, and more. Visit the website to explore ketamine therapy further, or call (513) 321-1753 to schedule an appointment.