Ketamine vs. Traditional Antidepressants

a picture showing several capsules
a picture showing several capsules

Ketamine vs. Traditional Antidepressants

Depression is a serious condition that affects millions worldwide. It can leave people feeling hopeless and lost. The good news is, there are treatments available to help those who suffer from it. In recent years, Ketamine has emerged as a novel alternative to traditional antidepressants.

Read on to discover the differences between Ketamine and traditional antidepressants. We’ll discuss how Ketamine can help those who haven’t found relief with other treatments.

Depression: What Causes It?

Depression is a complex health condition with multiple potential causes. For some, a traumatic event, like the death of a loved one, a break-up, or a job loss can trigger it.

Other common causes of depression include:

  •  Chemical imbalances1
  •  Genetics
  •  Social isolation
  •  Chronic illness
  •  Hormonal changes

A combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors can contribute to depression onset.

Common Depression Symptoms

The symptoms of depression can vary for everyone. But they usually include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair. In addition, some people may experience changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels. Other common depression symptoms include difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in hobbies, and thoughts of self-harm.

How Ketamine Fights Depression

Fortunately, there are various treatments available for depression. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes have helped people mitigate symptoms. Another emerging treatment option that has shown promise in recent years is Ketamine.

Ketamine is a powerful drug that has potent antidepressant effects. Within a few hours of administering a low dose, Ketamine can quickly alleviate depression symptoms. As a result, many depression patients turn to Ketamine if they don’t get relief from traditional therapies and medicine.

Traditional antidepressants can take weeks or even months to work, but Ketamine can make you feel better within the same day of getting it. This rapid response time can be life-changing for people who have severe depression and are at risk of suicide.

Researchers and industry professionals are still researching the exact mechanism of Ketamine’s antidepressant effects. They believe it’s related to its ability to increase the activity of certain brain neurotransmitters, such as glutamate.2 Ketamine promotes the growth of new neural connections in the brain, which may alleviate depression symptoms.

What Does Ketamine Do to Your Brain?

Ketamine can affect the brain in several ways. It can change a person’s mood and make them feel relaxed or even euphoric. But it can also cause confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations.

Ketamine stimulates glutamate production. Increased glutamate encourages the brain to make new neural connections. As a result, the brain becomes more adaptable and creates new pathways. With new pathways, patients develop more positive thoughts and behaviors.3

How Often Should I Get Ketamine to Manage Depression?

The frequency of Ketamine treatments depends on numerous factors:

  • The severity of your depression
  •  The type of Ketamine treatment you receive
  •  How your body responds to the medication

Most people receive three to six Ketamine infusions over several weeks. Some may require more frequent treatments. Others can go longer between treatments.

While Ketamine can be an effective depression treatment, it shouldn’t be a substitute for regular mental health care. Ketamine works best when used as part of a broader treatment plan. A typical treatment plan may include other medications and therapy.

Who Can Get Ketamine for Depression Treatment?

Ketamine can be an excellent treatment for depression. But like any medical treatment, it’s not suitable for everyone.

Talk to a healthcare professional about Ketamine if you:

  •  Can’t wait several weeks for traditional medicine to start working
  •  Have tried traditional antidepressants with little to no relief
  •  Have severe depression

Certain people can’t get Ketamine, such as those with a history of:

  •  High blood pressure
  •  Substance abuse or addiction
  •  Certain heart conditions

Traditional Antidepressants: How Do They Work?

Traditional antidepressants target certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. These chemicals transmit messages between brain cells. As a result, they play a pivotal role in regulating mood, emotions, and behavior.

Certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, affect a person’s mood. By increasing these neurotransmitter levels, traditional antidepressants can reduce depression symptoms over time.4

Unlike Ketamine, traditional antidepressants can take several weeks or months to take effect. Like any medication, not everyone responds to them the same way. Some may not even get the relief they need. This explains why more people are turning to Ketamine for depression treatment.

Ketamine vs. SSRIs: Which Is the Better Antidepressant?

Countless options exist for treating depression. Two of the most common treatments include Ketamine and SSRIs.

Ketamine works quickly to reduce depression symptoms, while SSRIs work slowly over time. Patients receive Ketamine either through a nasal spray or an injection. SSRIs are oral medications in pill form.

In short, both can be effective in treating depression. Ketamine can have more side effects (like addiction) if not used properly. SSRIs, on the other hand, can take too long to work. Those needing rapid relief may turn to Ketamine to feel better faster.

Everyone’s experience with depression is unique. Work with Ketamine Therapy LA to determine which treatment is right for you.

Ketamine vs. Traditional Antidepressants: Which Should I Get?

The decision between Ketamine and traditional antidepressants is a personal one. Traditional antidepressants take a while to work, while Ketamine provides quick relief for depression.

For some people, traditional antidepressants may be a better option. For example, if you have a history of substance abuse, Ketamine may be a risky choice. But if you haven’t found relief with traditional medicine, then Ketamine may be worth exploring.

Consider your needs and medical history when making your decision. Ketamine Therapy LA can provide guidance after assessing your mental health.

Ketamine Infusions Near Me in Los Angeles, CA

Have you tried traditional medicine to mitigate depression symptoms without luck? Do you need fast relief? Ketamine may be a promising solution. Visit Ketamine Therapy LA. We’re a premier provider of Ketamine infusions in West Hollywood and Los Angeles, CA. Our staff has special training in delivering ketamine to help patients lead fulfilling lives. Call (323) 650-9883 to schedule a free consultation.

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Sources:

1. What causes depression? Published in Harvard Health Publishing. Link.
2. Ketamine for Depression: A Q&A with Psychiatrist Alexander Papp, MD, Published in UC San Diego Health. Link.
3. Ketamine—from anesthetic to depression “miracle drug.” Published in Yale Medicine. Link.
4. What to Know About Ketamine Therapy for Depression. Published in Healthline. Link.
5. Depression: How effective are antidepressants? Published in National Library of Medicine. Link.

Make an Appointment

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By submitting this form you agree to be contacted via phone/text/email.