Depression Relief in Hours Not Weeks
How does ketamine therapy work?
Ketamine works in several ways at the same time, many of which are still being studied. Research has shown that ketamine stimulates brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and the growth of neurons in the brain. In patients treated with IV ketamine therapy, researchers have observed increased synaptic connections.
Ketamine also improves neural activation, or communication between brain cells by working as an NMDA receptor antagonist. This neuronal growth and increased neuronal interconnectivity have been shown to improve mood and cognition.
Ketamine also may also work in other ways. For example, it might reduce signals involved in inflammation, which has been linked to mood disorders.
What can IV ketamine therapy treat?
IV ketamine therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for people who suffer from treatment-resistant disorders. It has also been shown to help relieve symptoms of other disorders including:
Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety
Depression
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Chronic Pain
Acute Suicidality
What should patients expect during IV ketamine treatment?
All Pulse Ketamine treatments are administered and monitored by a Nurse Practitioner or an MD, rather than a lower-level supervisor.
When used to treat mood disorders, ketamine is administered through an IV at a much lower dose than is necessary for anesthesia.
During ketamine treatment, patients recline in a treatment chair surrounded by a calm, safe environment. As the ketamine is delivered at a slow and controlled dose, the patients' biometrics are monitored, including blood pressure, pulse and oxygen saturation during treatment.
Ketamine is well-tolerated. During a ketamine infusion, patients remain aware of their surroundings and experience a deep relaxation. Some patients may also experience dissociation, perceptual disturbances or nausea. Generally, any changes in perception or dissociation dissipate very quickly after the infusion.
Each ketamine infusion lasts about 60 minutes, after which patients should have someone available to accompany them home safely. Typically, patients receive 2-4 ketamine infusions over the course of 3-4 weeks. Most patients experience positive results from ketamine after their first infusion. Subsequent infusions help prolong the positive effects.
Medical Director
Dr. David Deyhimy is a fellowship-trained cardiothoracic anesthesiologist, board-certified in both addiction medicine and anesthesiology. He has extensive experience with mental health and mood disorders, and over 20 years of experience safely treating patients with ketamine.