ketoamne is a powerful medication that has gained attention for its potential use in the treatmefnt of anxiety disorders. Understanding how quickly ketamine works can help individuals and healthcare providers deteetmine its effectiveness and decide if it is a viable option for anxiety management.
The effects of ketamine are rapidly activated when administered intravenously, leading to noticeable improvements in mood and overall well-being within hours or even days. this contrasts with traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks or even months to produce losable results. In fact, one study demonstrated that individuals could distinguish ketamine and placebon from one another, suggesting that ketamine may be more effective at immediately reducing anxiety symptoms than traditional medications.
The speed of ketamine's action is particularly beneficial for individuals who are experiencing acute distress or severe anxiety symptoms. unlike other medications that may take weeks to show results, ketamine can provide immediate relief. Some people find that ketamine therapy is enough to relieve their symptoms altogether, while others find it works best in combination with other medications and treatments.
Ketamine therapy comes in many administration routes that vary in effectiveness depending on the person and their symptoms. These include oral preparations, such as tablets, intranasal sprays, and intramuscular (IM) and intravenous (IV) infusions. IV infusions, which can only be done in a hospital or clinic setting, deliver a carefully dosed, constant drip that clinicians can titrate up or down based on the patient's needs. research shows the best practice for IV therapy involves six sessions over two to three weeks. However, Avesta creates tailored protocols for patients based on their condition and response to the medication.
Intramuscular (IM) shots involve the Injection of a ketamine dose into a large muscle, such as the thigh or upper arm. IM ketamine treatment might require multiple injections per treatment session. Usually, patients complete a series of five to six sessions. Intramuscular administration has shown similar rates of effectiveness to IV infusion, that said, research on IM ketamine for anxiety is scarce compared to the IV route.
Esketamine Nasal Spray
Another type of ketamine is called “esketamine” operating under the brand name Spravato. Spravato is an intranasal ketamine-derivative spray specifically developed for treatment-resistant depression. Spravato also requires treatment at a hospital or doctor’s office for a physician to administer it and monitor any side effects. Patients use the spray once or twice weekly for the first eight weeks and then only once every week or two in the maintenance phase. Doctors often prescribe Spravato in combination with traditional anti-anxiety medications.
Sublingual tablets
Sublingual ketamine tablets, or troches, deliver the medicine under the tongue. Doctors can prescribe oral ketamine tablets off-label for home use as a stand-alone treatment or for maintenance in between IV or IM treatments. Patients put the tablet under their tongue and allow it to dissolve slowly. Oral doses of ketamine can be effective. However, it takes longer for the body to absorb because it must travel through the digestive system. Additionally, research-backed oral ketamine protocols do not exist. Avesta does not offer ketamine tablets for patients as their first treatment option. However, it will prescribe troches as a supplement for chronic pain patients, who benefit from IV ketamine and would like to extend the time between sessions.
Ketamine Q&A
Can ketamine be used in conjunction with other anxiety medications?
Most medical professionals agree that ketamine is safe to combine with almost every antidepressant on the market, and it might even have synergistic effects with other medications. However, patients should always consult healthcare professionals before combining drugs due to possible interactions and side effects.
At Avesta, our clinicians collaborate with patients' doctors and psychiatrists to ensure they can safely combine ketamine with current medications. Can ketamine cause anxiety?
Studies show that some ketamine patients experience adverse reactions. For example, they may feel triggered, sensitive, anxious, or depressed during or after a ketamine infusion session. Fortunately, IV ketamine providers can reduce the dosage quickly to provide immediate relief. IM and nasal spray dosages cannot be adjusted. Combining ketamine with traditional therapy can also_negate adverse feelings and help patients integrate the experience into meaningful insights. Can recreational doses of ketamine help anxiety?
Recreational ketamine use can be dangerous for various health and safety reasons. For example, it can lead to dependency and overdose. It can also worsen anxiety symptoms and lead to enduring mental harm. People struggling with anxiety must seek professional support from reputable ketamine clinics that follow research-based protocols. Avesta offers cutting-edge IV ketamine treatment for patients with treatment-resistant anxiety. Contact our patient-centered care team for a free consultation today.
