Does Ketamine Therapy Get You High? – Ketamine therapy has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential to treat various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
However, one of the most common concerns people have when considering ketamine therapy is whether it will get them high.
Today, we’ll explore the relationship between ketamine therapy and its potential for producing a “high,” as well as the therapeutic benefits and risks associated with this treatment.
What is ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication that has been used for decades as an anesthetic and pain reliever.
In recent years, it has been studied extensively for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating mental health conditions.
Ketamine works by blocking the action of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, cognition, and perception.
How Does Ketamine Therapy Work?
Ketamine therapy typically involves the administration of ketamine in a controlled medical setting, such as a doctor’s office or clinic.
The medication can be administered through various routes, including intravenous (IV) infusion, intramuscular (IM) injection, or nasal spray.
The goal of ketamine therapy is to provide rapid relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions.
Does Ketamine Therapy Get You High?
The answer to this question is complex. When used for therapeutic purposes, ketamine is typically administered in controlled, low doses that are designed to provide therapeutic benefits without producing significant psychoactive effects.
However, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience some subjective effects, such as
- Feelings of relaxation
Ketamine can produce a sense of calmness and relaxation, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing anxiety or stress.
- Altered perception
Some patients may experience altered perceptions, such as changes in visual or auditory processing.
- Dissociation
Ketamine can produce feelings of detachment from one’s body or surroundings.
These effects are usually mild and short-lived, and they typically subside shortly after the treatment is completed.
The Difference Between Therapeutic and Recreational Use
It’s essential to distinguish between the therapeutic use of ketamine and recreational use.
When used recreationally, ketamine can produce intense psychoactive effects, including hallucinations, dissociation, and a sense of detachment from reality.
In contrast, ketamine therapy is designed to provide therapeutic benefits while minimizing the risk of psychoactive effects.
Benefits of Ketamine Therapy
Does Ketamine Therapy Get You High? Ketamine therapy has been shown to provide rapid relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Some benefits of ketamine therapy include:
- Rapid relief
Ketamine can provide rapid relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety, often within hours or days.
- Treatment-resistant depression
Ketamine has been shown to be effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, which is depression that has not responded to other treatments.
- Improved mood
Ketamine can improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Risks and Side Effects
While ketamine therapy can be beneficial, it’s not without risks and side effects. Some potential risks and side effects include:
- Dependence and addiction
Ketamine can be habit-forming, and long-term use can lead to dependence and addiction.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Ketamine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Cognitive impairment
Ketamine can impair cognitive function, including memory and attention.
Conclusion
Does Ketamine Therapy Get You High? Ketamine therapy is a promising treatment for various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety.
While it’s designed to provide therapeutic benefits without producing significant psychoactive effects, some patients may experience subjective effects, such as feelings of relaxation or altered perception.
By understanding the benefits and risks of ketamine therapy, individuals can make informed decisions about whether this treatment is right for them.
If you’re considering ketamine therapy, it’s essential to work with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support throughout the treatment process.
With proper care and monitoring, ketamine therapy can be a valuable tool for achieving improved mental health and well-being.