Ketamine

Ketamine is a medication that has been used for many years as an anesthetic in medical settings. However, more recently, ketamine has been found to have potential as a treatment for depression, particularly for people who have not responded well to other treatments.

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When used as a treatment for depression, ketamine is typically administered in low doses through an intravenous (IV) infusion or nasal spray (Spravato). Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take several weeks to start working, ketamine works quickly, often within hours or days.

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The exact mechanism by which ketamine works to alleviate depression is not fully understood, but it is believed to work by modulating the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including glutamate and GABA.

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Studies have shown that ketamine can provide rapid relief of depressive symptoms, including improvements in mood, sleep, and appetite. Ketamine has also been found to have a long-lasting effect, with some patients experiencing sustained improvement for several weeks or months after treatment.

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Ketamine is typically not a first-line treatment for depression, and it is generally reserved for people who have not responded well to other treatments. 

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Overall, ketamine is a can be a great treatment option for depression when administered by an expert physician.