Ketamine is a psychostimulant that is administered intravenously or intramuscularly to patients suffering from severe mood or anxiety disorders. Although its effects are similar to other psychostimulants in many ways, the drug can be more dangerous than most people realize. While minor side effects are rare, many ketamine users experience hallucinations. These experiences are most common among adults and are directly related to the dose administered. Higher doses of Ketamine can cause more severe hallucinations.
While ketamine has been used for bipolar disorder, there are several other health conditions in which it is not indicated. The FDA does not recommend the use of ketamine in active psychosis or mania, or in children who do not respond to other forms of medication. However, the risks of using this drug for these conditions are relatively small, and it is recommended for emergency-room patients with unstable cardiovascular disease or other serious illnesses. There are also no definitive studies on the therapeutic effects of ketamine in chronic pain.
While ketamine is not addictive, it has side effects. It may cause an unpleasant dream-like state, dizziness, blurred vision, double vision, and nausea. Short-term anxiety reactions can also be caused by the drug. In the emergency department, ketamine is often used to help patients undergo emergency procedures such as intubation. Ketamine is not recommended for patients with serious health issues, despite its positive side effect.
Ketamine is a widely used antidepressant, but it has its drawbacks. Patients with depression or suicidal thoughts can abuse ketamine. Ketamine is FDA-approved, but its use outside of the label has been reported as a problem. Only a physician should administer ketamine under medical supervision. Its adverse effects are generally mild and do not require a medical visit. It is not considered a cure for depression and does not reduce suicidal thoughts.
Because of its addictive properties, ketamine is a dangerous drug and should only be used with caution. Ketamine can have serious side effects that can pose a danger to patients. The drug is not recommended for depression treatment. However, it can increase brain serotonin levels. Aside from the potential side effects, ketamine has many advantages. It can be abused for the treatment of depression, and it may also make it harder for the patient to maintain a normal airway.
Only a few studies have examined the effectiveness of ketamine in anxiety treatment. After one hour, anxiety was significantly reduced and the effects remained after repeated doses. In one study, a drug called esketamine hydrochloride was given to 14 patients with depression and anxiety. After a week, all eight patients reported a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms. The results of this trial have been promising.