Can ketamine help in treatment‑resistant depression?
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I have been struggling with major depressive disorder for years and have tried various treatments without much success. Recently, I read about ketamine being used for treatment-resistant depression, and I am curious to learn more. Please answer the following:
- How does ketamine work in treating depression, and what makes it different from traditional antidepressants?
- Are there specific criteria to determine if someone is a good candidate for ketamine treatment?
- What is the process like, and how quickly can one expect to see results?
- Are there any significant side effects or risks associated with ketamine therapy?
Please help.
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and understand your concern.
Ketamine (a dissociative anesthetic) is used only in resistant cases where all other traditional antidepressants (medicines used to treat clinical depression or prevent it from recurring) have been ineffective. Ketamine has other side effects, like conscious sedation (a depressed level of consciousness during which a patient retains control over his protective reflexes and can respond to commands).
Dissociative anesthesia is when a person might be awake and still be unresponsive. It might also induce bad dreams in some people. So, definitely, Ketamine is the last option in therapy. Also, it has addictive abilities.
I hope that you get your answer.
Please let me know if you need any help.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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