Ketamine Therapy

Rapid Relief for Depression, Anxiety, and Mental Health

Innovative care, paving the way to brighter tomorrows

You May Consider Ketamine Therapy if:

  • You have severe depression that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
  • You experience major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts.
  • You struggle with treatment-resistant depression.
  • You suffer from anxiety disorders that are not relieved by other therapies.
  • You struggle with a mood disorder that other therapies don’t help.
  • You are dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and need a new treatment option.
  • You have a substance use disorder and are seeking effective therapy.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine, a medication originally used as an anesthetic, has recently shown remarkable results in treating severe depression and anxiety, especially when other treatments fall short.

Unlike conventional antidepressants that can take weeks to show effects, ketamine is an innovative therapy that works rapidly, improving your mood and reducing symptoms within hours.

Providing hope for those battling difficult-to-treat mental health conditions.

How Ketamine Helps Your Brain

Ketamine helps the human brain become more flexible and resilient by promoting neuroplasticity, which is our brain’s ability to create new connections and pathways. This means that it can swiftly improve your mood and lessen the ugly symptoms of depression and anxiety, particularly when other tried treatments have failed.

Ketamine gives your brain the chance to reset and form healthy patterns, supporting long term mental health improvement.

Benefits of Ketamine Treatment

  • Rapid relief from severe depression and anxiety symptoms
  • Mood improvement within hours or days
  • Effective for treatment-resistant depression
  • Success when other treatments have failed
  • Quick reduction of suicidal thoughts
  • Promotes long-term brain health
  • Enhances neuroplasticity for better brain function
  • Minimal side effects under professional care
  • Potential reduction in long-term medication use

Safety and Professional Guidance

When administered by experienced healthcare clinician, each dose of ketamine is safe and effective. Receiving treatment in a controlled, medical setting ensures the best outcomes. We use low doses and monitor patients closely to ensure their safety and comfort throughout the process.

Research and Evidence

Extensive research, including studies by Massachusetts General Brigham, Cambridge University, and the NIH, supports the effectiveness of ketamine for rapid and substantial relief from depression and anxiety. These studies highlight ketamine’s potential as a powerful treatment for mental health conditions:

Massachusetts General Brigham Study:

This study found that intravenous ketamine is as effective as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for treating non-psychotic, treatment-resistant depression. The research highlights ketamine’s rapid antidepressant effects with fewer side effects compared to ECT, which is associated with memory loss and other adverse effects.

Systemic Review by Cambridge University:

This review synthesizes various studies on ketamine’s efficacy in treating depression, emphasizing its potential benefits and rapid onset of action compared to traditional antidepressants.

NIH Study on Depression:

Conducted by the National Institutes of Health, this study focuses on ketamine’s impact on treatment-resistant depression, noting significant improvements in mood and reduction in depressive symptoms among participants.

Meta-Analysis on Ketamine’s Efficacy:

This meta-analysis examines multiple clinical trials to assess ketamine’s overall effectiveness in treating depression. It concludes that ketamine provides rapid and substantial relief from depressive symptoms, particularly in treatment-resistant cases.

Ketamine infusions can significantly reduce symptom severity, offering a new lifeline to those who have not found relief with other treatments.

What is Ketamine Used For?

  • Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
  • Major Depressive Disorder with Acute Suicidal Ideations
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Mood Disorders
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Substance Abuse

Methods of Administering Ketamine

 At Altura Medical Spa, we deliver Ketamine is through IV. Although, ketamine can be administered in various ways, Intravenous ketamine works quickly. Provides maximum relief, and allows for precise control so we can deliver the most effective treatment for our patients.

Intravenous (IV) Ketamine

  • Rapid Onset: IV ketamine works quickly, often providing relief within minutes.
  • High Bioavailability: Nearly 100% of the ketamine is absorbed, making it very effective.
  • Controlled Dosing: Allows for precise control over the dosage and rate of administration.
  • Setting: Typically administered in a clinical setting with close monitoring.

Intranasal (Nasal Spray)

  • Moderate Onset: Takes slightly longer to take effect compared to IV.
  • Lower Bioavailability: About 45-50% is absorbed through the nasal mucosa.
  • Use Case: Can be used for  maintenance therapy after IV treatment courses.

Oral Ketamine

  • Ease of Use: Taken in pill or liquid form.
  • Slow Onset: Effects are felt within 30-60 minutes.
  • Low Bioavailability: Approximately 20-25% is absorbed due to first-pass metabolism in the liver.
  • Considerations: May require higher doses to achieve therapeutic effects.

Intramuscular (IM) Ketamine

  • Moderate Onset: Effects are felt within 15-20 minutes.
  • Bioavailability: Around 90% is absorbed, making it quite effective.
  • Dosing: Requires administration by a healthcare professional, typically in a clinical setting.
  • Use Case: Often used in acute settings where IV access is difficult.

Understanding the Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy

While ketamine therapy offers rapid relief for severe depression and anxiety, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but understanding them can help you make an informed decision about your treatment.

Common Side Effects

  • Dizziness: Patients may feel lightheaded or unsteady.
  • Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms are relatively common but typically subside quickly.
  • Increased Blood Pressure: A temporary rise in blood pressure can occur during or shortly after treatment.
  • Drowsiness: Feeling unusually sleepy or lethargic is a common effect.
  • Visual Disturbances: Some patients report blurred vision or other minor visual changes.
  • Dissociation: A feeling of being detached from reality, which is usually short-lived and part of ketamine’s therapeutic process.

Less Common Side Effects

  • Agitation: Some individuals may feel restless or irritable.
  • Anxiety: A temporary increase in anxiety can occur, especially at higher doses.
  • Hallucinations: Unusual sensory experiences, such as seeing or hearing things that are not there.
  • Confusion: Short-term confusion or disorientation may be experienced.
  • Increased Heart Rate: Similar to increased blood pressure, this effect is generally temporary.
  • Muscle Tremors: Some patients might experience mild muscle tremors or twitching.

Serious Side Effects (Rare)

  • Severe Confusion: In rare cases, patients may experience intense confusion or disorientation.
  • Loss of Consciousness: High doses or improper use can lead to a loss of consciousness.
  • Respiratory Depression: Slowed or difficult breathing is a serious risk if ketamine is not administered properly.
  • Bladder Problems: Long-term use of ketamine has been associated with urinary tract issues.
  • Dependency or Addiction: While rare when used medically, there is a risk of dependency with misuse.

Why Choose Altura Medical Spa for Ketamine Therapy?

At Altura Medical Spa, your ketamine therapy is overseen by Dr. Ardon, a highly qualified psychiatrist dedicated to optimal mental health care. We provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans in a private, comfortable setting. Your safety, comfort, and privacy are our top priorities, making sure you receive the best care possible.

Your Experience at Altura Medical Spa

From your initial consultation to each infusion session, we provide a serene, private environment designed to help you relax. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Initial Consultation: A thorough evaluation to ensure ketamine is the right treatment for you.
  • Personalized Care: Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs.
  • Private Treatment Rooms: Equipped with all necessary medical equipment, our rooms are designed for your comfort and privacy.
  • Continuous Monitoring: We monitor your vitals every 15 minutes during the 40-minute infusion to ensure your safety.
  • Post-Treatment Support: After your infusion, you’ll spend some time in the recovery area to ensure you feel stable before leaving.
  • Family Support: Family members are welcome to accompany you, providing additional comfort and security.

Patient Reviews

“Ketamine therapy helped alleviate symptoms of depression while I was navigating a chronic health condition. It also helped reduce chronic pain symptoms. This allowed me to focus on the actual cause of my symptoms and find long-term relief.” ~M.C. Ketamine patient

Learn More and Take the Next Step

Ready to explore ketamine therapy? Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.

Contact Information

Website

Phone Number for consultations

FAQ’s

What is ketamine?

Ketamine is a medication that was originally used as an anesthetic. Now, it’s being used successfully as a treatment of depression and anxiety by helping the brain form new, healthier pathways.

How does ketamine work?

Ketamine promotes neuroplasticity, helping the brain create new connections and pathways. This can quickly improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

What conditions can ketamine treat?

Ketamine is effective for treatment-resistant depression, major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideations, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorder.

How is ketamine given to patients?

Ketamine can be administered in several ways, each with distinct benefits. Intravenous (IV) ketamine has a rapid onset of relief, usually within minutes. Intranasal (nasal spray) ketamine is convenient for at-home use after initial doses are monitored in a clinic. Oral ketamine is easy to take in pill or liquid form, with a slower onset of effects within 30-60 minutes.Intramuscular (IM) ketamine has a moderate onset with effects felt within 15-20 minutes.

What can I expect during ketamine treatment?

Patients undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure suitability for ketamine therapy. During the infusion, patients are monitored in a private, comfortable room, with vitals checked regularly to ensure safety.

Is ketamine safe?

Yes, when administered by qualified healthcare professionals in a controlled setting, ketamine is safe. Small doses are used, and patients are closely monitored throughout the treatment.

Will I need ongoing ketamine treatments?

Some patients may need maintenance treatments every few weeks to once a month, depending on their symptoms. Others may experience long-term relief with fewer sessions.

Can ketamine be used for suicidal patients?

Yes, ketamine can be used for major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideations. However, a careful evaluation is necessary to ensure it is safe and appropriate for each individual.