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Ketamine for Depression Treatment at Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine in Newport Beach, CA

Introduction

At Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine in Newport Beach, CA, we specialize in providing innovative treatments for individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression (TRD). One of our most effective therapies is ketamine infusion treatment, a groundbreaking approach that has shown remarkable results in alleviating depressive symptoms in patients who have not responded to traditional antidepressant medications.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been widely used in medical settings for its sedative, pain-relieving, and anesthetic properties​​​​. In recent years, research has revealed its potential as a rapid-acting antidepressant, especially in cases of TRD. Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to show effects, ketamine can alleviate symptoms of depression within hours to days​​.

How Does Ketamine Work for Depression?

Ketamine blocks NMDA receptors in the brain, leading to a cascade of events that enhance synaptic plasticity and restore neural connectivity. This mechanism is believed to help “reset” the brain’s communication pathways, providing rapid relief from depressive symptoms​​.

Treatment Process

At Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine, our ketamine infusion therapy involves a series of carefully monitored intravenous infusions administered in a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. Our protocol typically includes:

  1. Initial Consultation: A thorough evaluation by our medical team to determine if ketamine therapy is appropriate for you.
  2. Induction Phase: A series of six ketamine infusions over a period of two to three weeks. Each infusion lasts about 40 minutes, and patients are monitored closely throughout the process to ensure safety and comfort.
  3. Maintenance Phase: Based on individual response, maintenance infusions may be recommended to sustain the antidepressant effects. These can be scheduled less frequently, such as once a month.

Safety and Efficacy

Research has shown that repeated ketamine infusions are both safe and effective for the treatment of TRD. In clinical studies, patients receiving ketamine infusions reported significant reductions in depressive symptoms, with effects lasting from several days to weeks after a single infusion​​​​. While some patients may experience mild side effects such as nausea or increased blood pressure, these are typically transient and manageable.

Benefits of Ketamine Therapy

  • Rapid Relief: Unlike conventional antidepressants, ketamine can produce rapid improvements in mood.
  • High Success Rate: Many patients who have not found relief with other treatments experience significant benefits from ketamine therapy.
  • Reduction in Suicidal Thoughts: Ketamine has been shown to quickly reduce suicidal ideation, providing critical support for patients in crisis.

Patient Experience

During the infusion, patients often describe a dissociative state where they feel detached from their body and environment. This experience, sometimes referred to as a “psychedelic” effect, is temporary and typically subsides shortly after the infusion ends. Most patients find the overall experience to be relaxing and not unpleasant.

Conclusion

At Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine, we are committed to offering cutting-edge treatments to help our patients overcome depression and reclaim their lives. Our ketamine infusion therapy is a testament to our dedication to providing innovative, effective, compassionate care. If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how ketamine therapy can make a difference.

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Get The Facts About Ketamine Therapy

Is ketamine therapy safe?
Yes, ketamine therapy is safe when administered by trained medical professionals in a controlled environment. We take every precaution to monitor patients and manage any potential side effects.
Currently, most insurances do not cover Ketamine as a treatment option for depression or chronic pain. However, if you request, we will provide you with documentation for treatment so that you may attempt to get reimbursed.
The typical treatment plan includes 5-6 infusions over three weeks. After that, further maintenance treatments on a weekly or monthly basis are as-needed. However, most patients need maintenance infusion approximately every 4-5 weeks.

Ketamine is beneficial for many people, even with serious illnesses. But like any medical procedure, some contraindications and conditions prevent the patients from having it.

These conditions would be:

  • Poorly controlled high blood pressure, severe heart failure, or unstable cardiac disease
  • A recent heart attack
  • Pregnancy
  • A recent stroke
  • History of allergic reactions to Ketamine
  • Uncontrolled seizures
  • Glaucoma
  • Hyperactive thyroid
  • Active manic or psychotic symptoms
  • No support person to take you home from the clinic or care for you at home

Dr. Borna will discuss your medications with you in the free consultation session and plan any adjustments if needed. For example, for some medications, you might need to reduce the doses before having Ketamine treatment to achieve the best result.

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