Is Ketamine Therapy Addictive?

August 24, 2023

The remarkable results brought about by ketamine have enabled it to move from a recreation-associated drug to being a big part of medical science.

Despite ketamine's reputation as a party drug, often used recreationally, it's critical to differentiate between its casual use and controlled administration in medicine. Scientists created ketamine to be an anesthetic and a pain reliever. It’s approved by the FDA for these purposes. More recently researchers have discovered it’s benefits in mental health, pain relief, and even addiction recovery. When IV ketamine therapy is given in a controlled medical setting, it does not have any inherent physical or psychological addiction. So, unlike opioids or sedatives, it doesn't result in chemical dependency, which often leads to addiction. In fact, ketamine was linked with better outcomes when used along with behavioral and motivational therapy in two clinical trials on substance misuse treatment.

About Physiological Addiction

Developing a physiological addiction is not the same as being drawn to the unique experience that dissociative ketamine offers.  

It's worth noting that the captivating dissociative effects of ketamine might be misinterpreted as addictive tendencies, but they aren't rooted in physiological cravings.

IV Ketamine for Mood Disorders

Research suggests that IV ketamine therapy has immense potential in treating anxiety and depression, which are both mood disorders. By acting on the brain's glutamate receptors, this therapy fosters the development of new neural connections. These connections then alleviate the symptoms associated with those disorders. Providing patients with sustained relief, ketamine therapy delivers one of its most compelling aspects thanks to its rapid onset of action. Within hours or days of treatment, many patients report feeling significantly improved in their mood and overall well-being. These effects are known to last for weeks to months, giving patients a long-lasting sense of relief.

When given in a monitored environment by proficient healthcare providers, IV ketamine therapy's safety record remains unblemished. Conversely, the treatment session may cause brief, insignificant issues such as a floating sensation, lightheadedness, or queasiness. In patients in immediate crisis, ketamine therapy has shown impressive outcomes by swiftly diminishing suicidal ideations. It offers much-needed hope and relief, which can be lifesaving.

Dispelling Misconceptions

Controlling dosage and closely monitoring patients throughout treatment ensures the safety and effectiveness of ketamine's medicinal use.Though once considered a party drug, it has now been repurposed by medical professionals. In this context, ketamine takes on a vastly dissimilar form. A growing body of evidence supports the effectiveness of ketamine in medical settings for treating mood disorders and its non-addictive nature. This evidence-based practice is based on scientific research and clinical trials and the possibility of addiction is very low.

In Summary

Despite its controversial beginning as a party drug, IV Ketamine therapy has evolved into an effective treatment for mood disorders. Ketamine’s non-addictive nature underlines its potential when administrated under a controlled environment.If you're ready to experience the benefits of IV ketamine therapy and embark on a journey toward improved mental well-being, contact us to learn more about this transformative treatment option.

If you or someone you know is interested in Ketamine Infusion Therapy, please contact us to set up a consultation.

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