You may have heard of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic used medically primarily for induction and maintenance of anesthesia. However, it is also used as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and pain. At BFF Medical Wellness Clinic, for example, we employ ketamine therapy for pain management, depression, substance abuse, PTSD, and OCD. Continue reading to learn if ketamine treatment may be right for you. If you have any particular questions or concerns, you can call BFF Medical Wellness Clinic to speak with a knowledgeable member of our team.
Ketamine is a well-known medication developed in the 1960s specifically for anesthesia, as a safer alternative to existing options. For this purpose, ketamine is an FDA-approved medication. Since then, ketamine has been researched extensively for other benefits and was found to have rapid and potent antidepressant effects when administered at low doses. It has since emerged as a promising option to treat a range of medical health conditions, such as PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and treatment-resistant depression.
With respect to PTSD and severe depression, there has even been recommendations by the Department of Veterans Affairs. A recent recommendation by the department reads: "In patients with the presence of suicidal ideation and major depressive disorder, we suggest offering ketamine infusion as an adjunctive treatment for short-term reduction in suicidal ideation."
So, what does ketamine do in the body? Ketamine works by interacting with various receptors and neurotransmitter systems. It acts on receptors in the brain, called the N-methyl-D-aspartate, or NMDA, receptor. By binding to the NMDA receptor, it modifies the receptor’s normal functioning. Specifically, this results in the release of the neurotransmitter called glutamate, which plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between brain cells as well as in various cognitive and emotional processes.
One of the major consequences of these interactions, especially glutamate release, is the promotion of neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections between neurons, and/or modifying existing ones.
In short, ketamine quite literally creates new pathways in the brain so that you can form new, positive thinking patterns, which can in turn change your mindset.
Ketamine therapy offers a powerful and transformative solution for individuals facing various mental health challenges, but it is not a silver bullet or magic spell. Still, its unique properties make it a promising option for those who have struggled to find relief through traditional treatments for:
Ketamine therapy alone is promising, but for best results, it is advised to supplement ketamine infusion treatment with additional tools like therapy, life coaching, or other counseling.
BFF is an innovative wellness company providing advanced medical services in Temecula and North San Diego counties. Our wellness center is designed to deliver personalized care that prioritizes patient experience, utilizing safe procedures and advanced technologies to provide a comprehensive suite of services.
Call BFF Medical Wellness Clinic to learn more about our ketamine infusion treatment in Ontario, schedule a consultation, or arrange an initial appointment today.
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