Ketamine therapy is a transformative mental health treatment that is highly personalized and tailored to the needs and preferences of each patient. That’s why there are several methods of administration, including intravenous infusions and IM injections. Here’s everything you should know about them.
Understanding Ketamine
Ketamine was developed in the 1960s as a surgical anesthetic. Today, ketamine is being used to alleviate symptoms of depression, particularly for individuals who haven’t responded to antidepressants and traditional treatments. Ketamine therapy can help with conditions including:
- Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Eating disorders
- Bipolar depression (in some cases)
- Substance use disorders
- Suicidal ideation
- Hospice and palliative care
- Chronic pain conditions
- Personal growth and emotional healing
There are several types of ketamine administration, including intramuscular ketamine therapy (IM), ketamine infusions (IV), and Spravato therapy (nasal spray). Depending on the personal preferences and medical history, the adequate administration method is chosen.
How Does Ketamine Work?
Ketamine works by interacting with the primary excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate, blocking the NMDA receptors in the brain and across the central nervous system. This action causes the surge of glutamate, activating receptors responsible for mood regulation, called AMPA receptors. While traditional antidepressants take a few weeks or even months to start making a difference, ketamine can potentially help reduce the symptoms after the first session.
Ketamine promotes neuroplasticity, causing the brain to produce more connections and boost better mood regulation, and ending negative thought loops that are persistent in various mental health conditions.
IM Ketamine vs Ketamine Infusions
There has never been an adequate study comparing IM vs IV ketamine, most practitioners consider that they are essentially equivalent. But some slight differences should be noted:
- IM ketamine has fewer side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and agitation, compared to IV ketamine.
- IM ketamine is known to cause a deeper dissociative and psychedelic experience compared to IV ketamine.
- Overall, there is more research surrounding IV ketamine.
- IV ketamine can be turned off by stopping the infusion, whereas IM ketamine cannot.
IM Ketamine Therapy In-Depth
The intramuscular or IM ketamine administration method is done by injecting a precise dose of ketamine into the shoulder by a licensed clinician. Patients reach a peak dissociative state within the first 15 minutes of the treatment. A typical session lasts between 2 and 2.75 hours, depending on the service.
Ketamine injections are a part of specific services, such as:
- Guided Ketamine Therapy: Consists of extended preparation and integration phases led by a trusted Guide of choice.
- Semi-Guided Ketamine Therapy: Offering limited guidance for a balanced approach, led by a compassionate Guide.
- Couples Ketamine Therapy: For couples who want to address their individual or shared struggles and rebuild their relationship.
- Group Ketamine Therapy: For individuals seeking group healing with up to 6 people.
Ketamine Infusions In-Depth
Ketamine infusions, also known as IV ketamine infusions, are a clinically guided therapy focused on rapid reduction of symptoms and long-term recovery. This type of therapy is administered intravenously by a licensed clinician by injecting a precise dose of ketamine directly into the bloodstream. A typical session lasts 2 hours, including preparation and integration.
IV ketamine infusions are also available within the semi-guided ketamine therapy service.
What IV Infusions and IM Injections Have in Common
Both methods of ketamine administration are used for symptom relief, but they also have other things in common, such as:
- Detailed evaluation: Each patient undergoes a detailed medical and mental evaluation to determine the correct ketamine service for them
- Preparation phase: Patients are prepared before the session by following grounding techniques and meditations guided by a clinician
- Medical monitoring: Every session is supervised by a medical professional to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective
- Given across 6 treatments: The number of sessions can vary depending on the needs of the patient, but the typical duration is 6 sessions
- Extent of absorption: The bioavailability of IV ketamine is 100%, while IM ketamine is 93%. Unlike intranasal and oral medications, the administration of both IM and IV ketamine is highly predictable
Both IV infusions and IM injections are used to help with various mental health conditions, but it all comes down to personal preferences and medical history. The best choice will be made to achieve optimal results. Learn more about ketamine therapy and book your first consultation at Kadelyx Health.
