How Does Ketamine Infusion Therapy Improve Depression Symptoms?
Ketamine infusion Therapy works to improve depression symptoms by targeting the brain's glutamate system, which plays a significant role in mood regulation and neuroplasticity. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which primarily affect serotonin and norepinephrine levels, ketamine increases the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that helps to promote brain cell communication and growth. This process helps "reset" neural circuits that may have been impaired in people with depression, promoting a sense of well-being and improving mood.
The rapid effects of ketamine therapy are particularly beneficial for individuals with severe depression, especially those experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors. While conventional antidepressants can take weeks to show results, ketamine can provide noticeable improvement within hours or days, offering quick relief from depressive symptoms. As a result, it can be life-saving for individuals who have not responded to other treatments. With continued use, ketamine therapy may also help to maintain mood stability, with some patients experiencing lasting benefits for weeks or even months after a series of infusions.
