Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Traditional treatments like therapy and medication have helped a lot of people, but many still continue to look for more effective solutions. Recently, ketamine has started to be seen as a promising option in the treatment of PTSD. At Caledon Clinic, we are here to explore the potential of ketamine to help those struggling with this challenging disorder.
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Common symptoms include flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. These symptoms can interrupt everyday life and make it hard for people to function normally.
The traditional treatment for PTSD includes psychotherapy (like cognitive-behavioural therapy) and medications (like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). While these methods have helped many, they do not work for everyone.
Ketamine has been explored as a treatment option for PTSD starting from the 1970s. Initially, research primarily concentrated on it being used as anesthesia. It wasn’t until the 1990s that its use as an antidepressant was explored, and research expanded to explore ketamine’s ability to treat depression. It is important to note that ketamine is not yet approved as a treatment for PTSD in Canada, but research is showing promising results.
Ketamine has now shown remarkable potential to rapidly reduce symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive thoughts and depression. Ketamine infusion therapy can provide rapid relief, often within hours or days, compared to traditional medications that may take weeks to show effects.
Ketamine blocks N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain, like some antidepressants. By doing so, ketamine may help alleviate PTSD symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviours, flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional distress.
Ketamine may also reduce inflammation and anxiety associated with PTSD. It has been shown to decrease fear and distress while increasing serotonin levels, which can enhance mood and behaviour. Ketamine has also been shown to help repair neural pathways in the brain, which may help reduce intense emotional episodes and panic attacks common in PTSD.
The benefits of ketamine therapy are more than just its quick relief. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which require daily dosing and may take weeks to exert therapeutic effects, ketamine is administered via intravenous infusion or nasal spray under medical supervision. This method makes sure you get proper dosing and monitoring, minimizing the risk of misuse and maximizing therapeutic benefits. Ketamine has also been seen to help treat treatment-resistant PTSD, where people don’t respond to standard treatments.
Mood disorders such as depression, anxiety and PTSD are complex. Although currently treatment of PTSD is not an approved use of ketamine in Canada, we can help provide relief of symptoms of depression that often cooccur with PTSD. Through our ketamine-assisted therapy, we aim to offer rapid symptom relief and long-term improvement in quality of life for individuals in our care. Our approach integrates cutting-edge research with clinical expertise to deliver safe, effective, and ethical care that prioritizes patient well-being.
If you are struggling with managing your mental health symptoms, consider exploring ketamine therapy at Caledon Clinic. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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