IV ketamine infusions have been making waves as a novel approach to addressing mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and even chronic pain.
At Palo Alto Mind Body, we’re a highly specialized team, led by Dr. M Rameen Ghorieshi, who can administer this treatment. Let’s explore what IV ketamine infusions are, how they work, and how they may benefit you.
Ketamine is a medication that’s been used for decades as an anesthetic in both humans and animals. In recent years, it’s gained attention for its potential to treat various mental health conditions, particularly treatment-resistant depression. IV ketamine infusions involve the intravenous administration of a controlled dose of ketamine in a clinical setting like Palo Alto Mind Body.
The exact mechanism of ketamine's action in the treatment of mental health disorders isn’t fully understood, but researchers have identified several key factors, including:
Ketamine affects the brain's glutamate neurotransmitter system. This modulation is believed to help create new neural connections and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Unlike traditional antidepressant medications, which may take weeks to show results, ketamine infusions often produce noticeable improvements within hours or days. This rapid onset of action is particularly beneficial for individuals in crisis or those with severe depression.
Ketamine may also have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Inflammation has been linked to various mental health conditions, and reducing it may provide relief.
IV ketamine infusions have shown promise in treating a range of mental health conditions, including:
During your evaluation, we can determine if IV ketamine infusions might be a recommended treatment for you.
Getting IV ketamine infusions can offer many benefits, such as:
One of the most significant advantages of IV ketamine infusions is how quickly it can take effect. The fast-acting relief can be life-saving, especially if you’re experiencing severe depression or having suicidal thoughts. If you have active thoughts of harming yourself, please call 911 now, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately.
Studies have reported high response and remission rates in individuals receiving ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant depression and other conditions.
When administered in our clinical setting by our trained professionals, ketamine infusions are generally safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. We monitor your treatment from beginning to end.
If you haven’t responded to traditional treatments, ketamine infusions may be the answer, offering new hope for relief.
Though IV ketamine infusions hold great promise, important considerations and precautions to know about include:
The optimal treatment plan varies from person-to-person. We work closely with you to determine your appropriate dosage and frequency.
The long-term effects of ketamine use for mental health conditions are still being studied. During your initial consultation, we discuss the potential risks and benefits.
Ketamine has a history of recreational use as a party drug. However, ketamine infusions are administered under our medical supervision in a controlled environment.
IV ketamine infusions represent a promising treatment option for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and more. Treatment is becoming a valuable addition to the mental health treatment landscape.
As research continues, we may gain further insights into the potential of ketamine as a game-changer in mental health care.
To find out more about IV ketamine infusions and if they’re right for you, call us at 650-681-2900 or book an appointment online today at the office nearest you. We provide care to those across the Bay Area—South Bay, North Bay, East Bay, Peninsula, or San Francisco, California.
