I have done a lot of research on Ketamine as a treatment for depression, especially for individuals who had not responded well to traditional antidepressant medications, before I began offering it as an option for treatment.
The results have been nothing short of incredible since offering Ketamine as a treatment option to patients who have not experienced positive results with more traditional treatment methods.
With the tragic passing of popular actor Matthew Perry and the fact that Ketamine was ruled as a contributing factor to his death, I feel compelled to address the safety of Ketamine as a treatment when administered in a controlled environment.
While he is reported to have undergone Ketamine therapy, the levels of Ketamine found in his blood could result in “lethal effects” from cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner said in a report. Perry likely ingested the medication in a way that was not prescribed, and that is one of the reasons I am not a fan of mail-order ketamine therapy. There is no direct medical supervision, and the risk of abuse is increased.
Here are key points regarding the use of Ketamine for depression:
- Ketamine’s antidepressant effects are thought to be related to its ability to modulate the activity of the neurotransmitter glutamate. Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily target serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine, Ketamine works on the glutamate system, leading to rapid changes in neural connectivity and plasticity.
- Ketamine can be administered through different routes, including intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), or as a nasal spray. The intravenous route is often used for more acute and immediate effects.
- One notable characteristic of Ketamine is its rapid onset of action compared to traditional antidepressants. Some individuals may experience a reduction in depressive symptoms within hours or days after treatment, making it potentially beneficial for those at risk of self-harm or in need of urgent relief.
- While Ketamine may provide rapid relief, maintenance treatments may be necessary to sustain the antidepressant effects over time. The frequency of maintenance treatments varies among individuals.
- Ketamine treatment for depression should be administered under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional in a clinical setting. This ensures proper monitoring of the individual’s response, potential side effects, and overall safety.
It is incredibly unfortunate what happened to Matthew Perry, but if you have been considering Ketamine therapy, this should not discourage you from exploring the options available, and we would welcome the opportunity to discuss it and other treatment options available to you through Certus. Our office number is 833-701-3111.
