What is Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Ketamine infusion therapy is revolutionizing mental health and pain management, offering rapid relief for conditions that often resist traditional treatments. Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has emerged as a powerful therapeutic tool for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, chronic pain, and anxiety disorders.
This article explores:
✔️ How ketamine infusion therapy works
✔️ Conditions it can treat
✔️ What to expect during treatment
✔️ Safety, side effects, and effectiveness
How Does Ketamine Infusion Therapy Work?
Ketamine works differently than conventional antidepressants. Instead of targeting serotonin (like SSRIs), it modulates glutamate, the brain’s primary excitatory neurotransmitter. This action helps:
🔹 Repair damaged neural connections
🔹 Promote neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt)
🔹 Reduce inflammation linked to depression and chronic pain
Unlike traditional medications that take weeks to work, ketamine often provides relief within hours or days.
Conditions Treated by Ketamine Infusion Therapy
1. Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
- For patients who don’t respond to SSRIs/SNRIs
- Rapidly reduces suicidal thoughts (studies show 70% improvement within 24 hours)
2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Helps reprocess traumatic memories
- Reduces flashbacks and hypervigilance
3. Chronic Pain Syndromes
- Fibromyalgia
- Neuropathic pain
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
4. Anxiety Disorders & OCD
- Calms overactive fear responses
- Enhances emotional resilience
What to Expect During Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Before Treatment
✅ Medical screening (to ensure safety)
✅ Personalized dosing plan (based on weight and condition)
During the Infusion
- Administered intravenously (IV) over 40-60 minutes
- Patients remain awake but relaxed (some experience mild dissociation)
- Clinically monitored for safety
After Treatment
- Effects often felt within hours
- Series of 6 infusions (over 2-3 weeks) recommended for lasting results
- Maintenance sessions may be needed (monthly/quarterly)
Is Ketamine Therapy Safe?
Ketamine has been FDA-approved for anesthesia since 1970 and is well-tolerated under medical supervision.
Potential Side Effects (Mild & Temporary)
- Dizziness or nausea
- Brief dissociation (floating sensation)
- Increased blood pressure (monitored during treatment)
Who Should Avoid Ketamine?
❌ Uncontrolled high blood pressure
❌ History of psychosis (e.g., schizophrenia)
❌ Pregnancy
Why Choose Ketamine Over Traditional Treatments?
| Feature | Ketamine Infusion Therapy | Traditional Antidepressants |
|---|---|---|
| Speed of Relief | Hours/days | 4-6 weeks |
| Success Rate (TRD) | 70%+ | 30-40% |
| Side Effects | Mild, short-lived | Weight gain, sexual dysfunction, fatigue |
The Future of Ketamine Therapy
Research continues to explore:
🔬 Long-term neuroprotective benefits
🔬 At-home ketamine options (lozenges, nasal sprays)
🔬 Combination therapies (with psychotherapy for enhanced results)
Ready to Explore Ketamine Therapy?
At Zora Neuro Spa, we specialize in personalized ketamine infusion therapy for:
📞 Call us at (208) 648-4100
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Learn more: zoraneurospa.com
Take the first step toward healing—relief could be just an infusion away.
