Ketamine

What is ketamine?

Ketamine, an anesthetic developed in the 1960s, is an essential medicine used for anesthesia and analgesia (pain relief) in adults and children. It has been listed on the WHO Essential Medicines List since 1985. In the early 2000s, scientists started studying ketamine as a treatment for depression.

Research suggests ketamine is incredibly effective in treating conditions such as anxiety and depression. The FDA even designated Ketamine’s S-enantiomer, or esketamine, as a “breakthrough therapy” on two separate occasions. In 2016, the FDA fast-tracked esketamine for development into a viable depression medication.

What is ketamine used to treat?

Ketamine first received FDA approval for use during surgery and diagnostic procedures.

During the last 10 years, it’s also been used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and migraines.

Ketamine is also used to treat substance abuse and addiction. A growing body of evidence suggests ketamine works to destabilize and even erase memories associated with substance use. In addition, ketamine therapy is regularly used to help those with substance dependence in rehab.

How does ketamine therapy work?

Dr. Sambunaris administers ketamine via intramuscular injection. Over the last five years, treating hundreds of patients, he has developed procedures that are individualized for each patient to achieve the maximum therapeutic effect of ketamine.

Researchers aren’t entirely sure how ketamine works to relieve depression and other mental health issues, but it’s thought that it changes the way brain cells communicate with one another. In particular, ketamine blocks NMDA receptors in the brain — receptors tied to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Ketamine also affects other receptors in the brain, including opioid receptors and pain receptors.

Am I a candidate for ketamine therapy?

If you are not satisfied with your current treatment, are questioning the level of effectiveness, or having side effects with your current treatment, or then you owe it to yourself to learn more about ketamine as a treatment option.

To determine if you’re a good candidate for ketamine therapy, schedule an appointment with Dr. Sambunaris. Following a physical exam, a review of your medical history, and a discussion of your symptoms, Dr. Sambunaris will tailor a treatment plan to help you improve your quality of life.

Learn more about the benefits of ketamine therapy today. Call or use the online booking tool to request your consultation.