What is Ketamine?


Ketamine is a medication that is primarily used for anesthesia and pain relief. It belongs to a class of drugs called dissociative anesthetics, which work by producing a trance-like state in the user and reducing sensations of pain.


Ketamine is also used illicitly as a recreational drug due to its ability to induce a dissociative and euphoric state. It is known by various street names such as "Special K," "K," and "Vitamin K." The recreational use of ketamine can be dangerous and has been associated with various negative effects on physical and mental health, including addiction, cognitive impairment, and bladder damage.

How is Ketamine Used in Therapy?

 

In recent years, ketamine has gained attention as a potential treatment for depression, particularly in cases where other treatments have been ineffective. Ketamine infusion therapy is used as an alternative treatment option for people with treatment-resistant depression.


In therapy, ketamine is typically administered in low doses and under the supervision of a trained medical professional.


Ketamine therapy usually involves a series of sessions, with each session lasting between 40 minutes to an hour. During the session, the patient is typically seated or lying down and is closely monitored by a healthcare professional. The drug is usually administered intravenously, although it can also be taken orally, intramuscularly, or via a nasal spray.


The effects of ketamine can be felt within minutes of administration, and typically last for about an hour. During this time, patients may experience a sense of disconnection from their thoughts and feelings, as well as a sense of euphoria or heightened creativity. This altered state of consciousness can sometimes lead to insights and breakthroughs in therapy, although the exact mechanism of action is still not fully understood.


Ketamine therapy is still considered an experimental treatment, and more research is needed to fully understand its safety and efficacy. It is typically used in cases where other treatments have failed, or when a patient is at high risk of suicide. It is important to note that ketamine can have side effects, including hallucinations, confusion, and dizziness, and should only be used under the guidance of a trained medical professional.