What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a novel treatment that has been referred to as one of the biggest breakthroughs in depression management. It has been used in anesthesia for decades and was first approved by the FDA as a field anesthetic for wounded American soldiers during the Vietnam War.

 

In recent years, ketamine has demonstrated highly effective results for those with treatment-resistant conditions, such as depression. This is revolutionary considering nearly one third of patients with depression don’t respond to traditional forms of treatment, according to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry (Rush et al. 2006).

 

By using ketamine, patients can adopt a healthier mindset and behaviors. Studies from Yale research labs found this kind of effect was not present with traditional antidepressants. 

 

Ketamine’s properties have been used to treat other conditions including: OCD, PTSD, anxiety, and migraine.

 

Disclaimer: If you or your loved one is experiencing a crisis now, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or call 911.

 

References:

Rush AJ, Trivedi MH, Wisnlewski SR et al (2006) Acute and longer-term outcomes in depressed outpatients requiring one or several treatment steps: a STAR*D report. Am J Psychiat 163:1905–1917

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