Major depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders in the US. It’s estimated to effect around 6 – 7% of the population over the age of 18 with ranging severities. For many, the standard treatments such as antidepressants are effective and long term therapy helps. But there is still a minority of patients who don’t respond to standard treatments. Although many doctors study treatment resistant depression its causes are still somewhat unknown. Managing it however has been made possible through alternative therapies such as ketamine.
First synthesized in 1962, ketamine is an anesthetic which is commonly used in operations for children or even as a sedative in hospital emergency rooms. Its widespread use as well as its relatively mild side effects have made the World Health Organization list it as an essential medicine. Upon FDA approval in 1970, ketamine was first used to treat soldiers in the Vietnam war but quickly became available in many hospitals. Doctors to this day are still researching it and its potential uses.
Over the past decade it has been discovered that ketamine may be an alternative for those suffering with treatment resistant depression. It has been effective in reducing suicidal thoughts in emergency room patients, allowing them to be released to outpatient therapy. In depressed patients the outcome has also been positive with many experiencing almost immediate relief that can last from days to weeks. But how can an anesthetic treat depression? Well, perhaps it’s not the anesthetic that’s doing it.
It appears that the answer may be in its metabolism rather than the drug itself. When we consume any substance our body breaks it down into metabolites which are tiny molecules used for things such as fuel. Ketamine antagonizes a specific neuron receptor which is what causes its anesthetic and psychedelic effect. Its metabolite however has been found to promote a different neuron receptor. The promotion of this receptor is what has had profound results in depressed patients.
Ketamine treatment is done by IV infusion in very small doses. It is administered by professional anesthesiologists or a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) who are knowledgeable about the medicine and its effects. Side effects of ketamine can include dizziness, disorientation and fuzzy vision so it’s important to have its doses regulated safely by an expert. In the further interest of safety patients are restricted from driving or operating heavy machinery within 24 hours of treatment and pick-ups are often arranged with family members after each session.
While ketamine can be a very effective treatment it is important to recognize that depression must be treated from multiple angles. Depression is caused by various biological, psychological, social and environmental factors and all factors must be addressed. Because of this, ketamine treatment is often used to enhance the effectiveness of other treatments. But if you’ve struggled with battling depression and keep finding yourself at a loss, know that there are alternatives. You’re not alone in this battle and there are plenty of professionals who know how to help.
source https://ketaminespecialistsoftexas.com/ketamine-and-depression/
Depression causes the worst feelings imaginable. Feeling that you’re not good enough, that you’re stuck and can’t escape. Feeling that nothing is worthwhile or enjoyable. It can make you lethargic, unable to sleep, lose your appetite or over-eat. With all these symptoms it may be a wonder how it’s diagnosed. But there’s more going on than we can see.