Misconceptions About Ketamine Treatment
Over the years, doctors and scientists have developed better and better treatments for depression. Many patients respond well to the SSRIs and MAOIs that are commonly prescribed. However, there are some who need a different or more intensive treatment. More recently, many of these patients have been benefiting from ketamine treatment. This is a one-time or several-time treatment that is meant to "reset" the brain and combat feelings of depression. It can be really helpful, but there are a few misconceptions about ketamine treatment that should be cleared up, too.
Misconception: Ketamine treatment is illegal.
Ketamine has been used as a street drug, and this recreational use is illegal. However, it is not illegal for doctors to administer ketamine to a patient in a controlled setting. Therefore, ketamine treatment for depression is legal. You will not be breaking any laws in accessing this care, nor will your physician.
Misconception: Ketamine is addictive.
This misconception likely also arose from the fact that ketamine is used as a street drug. But even those who use ketamine recreationally don't normally seem to be addicted to it. Ketamine is simply not an addictive substance and does not create dependency in the brain. People who abuse it do so because they like the way it makes them feel, and so they might use it repeatedly. However, there are no withdrawal symptoms that occur, so the desire to use it more often is just a mental dependency.
Misconception: Ketamine is a substitute for therapy.
Ketamine can help with depression when other remedies, including therapy, are not giving you enough relief. However, it should not be considered a replacement for therapy. Going to therapy will help you address the factors in your life that may be causing or contributing to your depression in the first place. It's important to continue with this in addition to any ketamine therapy you undergo.
Misconception: Ketamine will need to be used again and again.
Some people need more than one ketamine treatment, but even then, they typically only need two or three. This medication has profound effects after just one dose, and many patients find they only need that one initial dose. It's not something you will likely feel obligated to keep doing again and again.
With these misconceptions cleared up, you should be ready to talk to your doctor about ketamine treatment. If you're struggling with stubborn depression, it is a good thing to try. Reach out to a local service such as Las Vegas Ketamine to learn more.