Depression is a chronic and debilitating illness that affects millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization, it is the leading cause of disability worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated the issue; with lockdowns and economic crises leaving more people struggling with their mental health today.
Our Approach to the Administration of Sub-Anesthetic Ketamine Therapy
Traditionally, depression has been treated with antidepressant medication and talk therapy. However, many individuals experience limited relief, and the side effects of medication can be overwhelming. At Ketamine SLC, we administer intramuscular ketamine injections as a treatment for chronic depression with inspiring results. We are so motivated by the power of IM ketamine injections, we have developed our own 100 Days of Freedom from Depression Program. You can read more about it in our Guide to the Administration of Sub-Anesthetic Ketamine Therapy.
Through intramuscular injection, ketamine enters the bloodstream subcutaneously. Its effectiveness is due to its unique chemical structure that blocks NMDA receptors in the brain. This receptor helps the brain communicate complex information, and when blocked, the patient experiences an altered state of consciousness that can be therapeutic when guided by a medical professional.
IM Ketamine Injections vs. Traditional Antidepressants
Ketamine injections have shown remarkable effectiveness in treating depression in up to 70% of patients. Often, the effect is observed within hours of the first treatment, with symptoms lasting much longer than traditional antidepressants. It is essential to note that the treatment is not addictive, and its side effects are generally mild and temporary. This is in sharp contrast to traditional antidepressants, which often have numerous adverse effects including: weight gain, fatigue, and can be addictive – ketamine provides a much-needed safer alternative.
The future of depression treatment looks promising with ketamine injections standing out as a powerful modality. The medical community is increasingly accepting ketamine as an effective form of treatment for depression, and research is ongoing to determine its long-term effects. The hope is that in the future, it will be readily covered by insurance, making it more accessible to patients who require it.
Depression is a challenging condition to live with, but it does not have to be a life sentence. Ketamine injections provide a safe and effective treatment option for individuals experiencing difficult-to-treat depression symptoms. With our 100 Days of Freedom from Depression Program, we are committed to helping our patients overcome their depression symptoms through science and thinking outside the box. We believe that with proper administration of ketamine and adherence to our program guidelines, patients can experience a remarkable improvement in their mental health. It is our hope that continued research and advocacy will lead to more accessible and affordable treatment options for those who require it.