What It Is: Ketamine therapy involves the use of ketamine, a medication originally developed as an anesthetic, now utilized for its effective properties in treating depression, chronic pain, and certain psychiatric disorders. Administered at subanesthetic doses under clinical supervision, it works differently from traditional antidepressants by acting on NMDA receptors in the brain. This therapy typically involves a series of infusions or nasal sprays administered in a controlled medical setting.

How It Will Help: Ketamine therapy can rapidly reduce symptoms of depression, even in cases resistant to other treatments, with improvements often seen within hours to days rather than the weeks traditional antidepressants may take. It also shows efficacy in reducing symptoms of acute suicidal ideation and chronic pain conditions such as neuropathic pain. The rapid onset of action can be particularly beneficial in providing quick relief from severe symptoms, offering a critical window during which other long-term therapeutic strategies can be more effectively implemented.

Why It Is Safe: When administered under strict medical supervision, ketamine therapy is safe and well-controlled. The doses used for depressive symptoms are significantly lower than those used for anesthesia and are considered safe for short-term use with minimal side effects. Side effects, when they occur, are generally mild and transient, such as dizziness, nausea, or dissociative sensations, and dissipate quickly after the session. Continuous monitoring by healthcare professionals during the administration ensures any adverse effects are promptly managed, making this a safe option for those who have not responded to other treatments.

*Not an OHIP covered service