Ketamine therapy is a rapidly growing field in mental health treatment and is being used for a variety of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. There are several different forms of ketamine therapy, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages.
- Talk therapy combined with ketamine: Some therapists are now combining talk therapy with low-dose ketamine infusion therapy. This approach aims to combine the benefits of talk therapy with the rapid mood-enhancing effects of ketamine.
- Low-dose ketamine infusion therapy: In this type of therapy, a low dose of ketamine is administered intravenously over a 40-minute period. The aim is to induce a state of relaxation and improve mood. This therapy is often used for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.
- Intranasal ketamine therapy: In this form of therapy, ketamine is administered through the nose in a nasal spray form. The effects are similar to low-dose ketamine infusion therapy but are typically faster acting and of shorter duration.
- Subanesthetic ketamine therapy: In this type of therapy, a higher dose of ketamine is administered, with the goal of inducing a dissociative state. This therapy is used for depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
- Esketamine (Spravato): Esketamine is a form of ketamine that is approved by the FDA for treatment-resistant depression. It is administered via a nasal spray and is often used in combination with an oral antidepressant.
It is important to note that ketamine therapy should only be administered by trained medical professionals in a controlled clinical setting. Additionally, more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of ketamine therapy and to establish the best protocols for its use.