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If you're an adult suffering from depression in the United States, you're certainly not alone. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, a staggering 21 million adults reported at least one major depressive episode in 2020. Another study published by Nice Rx Health found Utah to have the highest prevalence of mental health problems in the nation.
For those suffering, relief might come in surprising ways. Ketamine, a powerful drug that's been used for decades in medical treatment, is now showing promising results as a treatment for depression.
A 2019 study shows that ketamine can rapidly alleviate symptoms of persistent depression, including treatment-resistant depression. The scientific reasons for ketamine's efficacy in treating depression are still being studied, but many Americans—including Utah residents—are already finding relief from this unlikely source.
What is ketamine and how does it work?
Ketamine has been used for decades as an anesthetic, but many providers, including the medical professionals at Ketamine SLC, use it to treat depression. More research is coming out with proof that ketamine is a powerful force in fighting depression—especially treatment-resistant depression. Robert C. Meisner, MD writing for Harvard Health says there are two ways scientists believe it's effective: it helps create new pathways in the brain, and it helps reduce inflammation.
Alexander Papp, MD of UC San Diego Health, explains why ketamine is faster-acting than traditional antidepressants. "The speediness of ketamine in producing an antidepressant effect occurs because this drug bypasses the traditional serotonin route and goes directly to activating glutamate. This is very different from traditional antidepressants, which first increase the activity of serotonin in multiple different areas of the brain, and then ultimately affect glutamate. This process usually takes two to four weeks to take effect, while ketamine yields an almost immediate effect," Papp says.
What to expect from ketamine treatments
At Ketamine SLC, you can expect a total of six treatments within a three-week period. Over time, you'll increase each dose to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.
When you go in for your treatments, you'll be guided to a private room where you can relax and take in the treatment. Some providers encourage you to bring music to listen to and a journal to write in if you feel like it.
Most ketamine is administered through IV or injection. It's important to note that these doses are significantly lower than the doses used in anesthesia.
Some people experience mild side effects, but the professionals at Ketamine SLC are there to help minimize those effects and make you as comfortable as possible throughout the whole process. Someone will monitor you throughout your sessions, giving you peace of mind during your treatment.
An effective treatment is here
While scientists are finding the benefits of ketamine, real people are discovering a whole new way of living without crippling depression, anxiety and PTSD.
One Ketamine SLC patient says, "I finished my last treatment in my series . . . and I'm not exaggerating when I say this has changed my life. For the first time EVER, I don't just feel like I'm managing my depression, but that I'm actually treating it and feeling GOOD. Ketamine SLC has been great to work with, and I'm so so glad I took the jump and did the therapy."
Once a patient has developed an optimal relationship with ketamine, treatments can become as infrequent as two or three times per year with the goal of long-term remission from symptoms.
If you're looking for long-term treatment for depression, anxiety or PTSD, there's hope. Call 385-474-6946 or visit Ketamine SLC to schedule a free consultation.
