A prescription nasal spray version of ketamine called esketamine (Spravato) was approved in 2019 by the FDA for hard-to-treat depression. Initially created as an anesthetic, recent studies are highlighting its potential for quick relief from depression and various psychiatric conditions, including substance use disorders. Research on addiction to alcohol and ketamine therapy is limited, but it shows some promise as a new option for improving alcohol use disorder and alcohol withdrawal when combined with therapy. However, it is important to note that ketamine has the risk of several side effects including dissociation, hallucinations, elevated blood pressure, and potential for abuse, and may not be the right course of treatment for everyone.
Ketamine for alcoholism treatment may be beneficial to help individuals reduce or stop alcohol consumption. The precise way in which ketamine aids in addiction recovery is still being explored, but it is believed to enhance the brain’s neuroplasticity, diminish cravings, address underlying issues like depression, and assist with co-occurring disorders. This therapy is generally integrated into a comprehensive treatment strategy that may also involve counseling, psychotherapy, and antidepressant medications.
Depression frequently coexists with substance use disorders. Approximately half of those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction also experience co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression. Some individuals may resort to substance use as a temporary escape from depressive feelings, which can lead to addiction. Furthermore, substance abuse can exacerbate or trigger mental health conditions. Holistic mental health treatment programs can effectively support individuals in managing both their depressive symptoms and alcohol dependency, potentially serving as a more suitable initial step than ketamine therapy.
What Is the History of Ketamine and its Initial Purpose?
According to Encyclopedia Britannica, ketamine was first synthesized in 1962 as an alternative anesthetic to phencyclidine (PCP), which caused severe hallucinogenic effects in humans. After its FDA approval in 1970, it was used to treat American soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War. Ketamine is a type of psychedelic drug called a dissociative which produces pain control, forgetfulness, intoxication, and euphoria. Today, it is primarily used as a veterinary anesthetic because it can produce minor hallucinogenic side effects in humans but is also used as a human anesthetic, particularly in children and individuals undergoing minor surgery. Some people also use it recreationally for its hallucinatory and euphoric effects, which can lead to abuse and addiction.
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Does Ketamine Help the Urge to Drink Alcohol?
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition that affects individuals differently when it comes to treatment responses. Recent studies have indicated that ketamine may offer potential benefits for those struggling with alcohol use disorders, as highlighted in research published by the National Library of Medicine. The findings suggest that patients who undergo a combination of ketamine and psychotherapy are more likely to either reduce their alcohol intake or achieve complete abstinence. However, the results regarding relapse rates, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms have shown variability.
Ketamine-assisted therapy for alcohol use disorder is believed to function in several ways, including its capacity to rewire the brain’s reward system. This reconfiguration can help individuals develop new, healthier thought patterns and behaviors that have been disrupted by alcohol-seeking tendencies. Additionally, some research indicates that ketamine may stimulate the release of certain neurotransmitters, like dopamine, which could lessen the desire to drink for the pleasure and reward typically associated with these chemicals.
Despite its potential, ketamine carries risks, particularly for those with a history of addiction, as it can be addictive and may lead to side effects such as dissociation and hallucinations. Therefore, individuals grappling with alcohol cravings should prioritize mental health therapy and explore other treatment options before considering ketamine therapy. A mental health professional can assess one’s relationship with alcohol and provide effective coping mechanisms and skills to help reduce or eliminate drinking. They can also address underlying issues like depression and anxiety that may contribute to substance use. The advantage of therapy is that it typically has no side effects and can offer lasting solutions, unlike ongoing ketamine treatment.
Does Ketamine Help with Mental Health Issues Related to Depression?
Ketamine has emerged as a promising treatment for major depression, particularly for those who have not found relief through conventional therapies like counseling or antidepressants, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. They report that 70% of patients see a significant reduction in negative symptoms after just three infusions and even a single session can yield benefits within an hour, lasting up to two weeks. The approach to ketamine therapy typically includes a series of customized infusion protocols, often combined with therapeutic support to enhance resilience and develop coping mechanisms.
Research indicates that ketamine may help “reset” the abnormal brain activity associated with depression, fostering the creation of new neural pathways that can uplift mood. Although the positive effects can manifest quickly, they are usually short-lived, necessitating ongoing treatment. It’s also important to note that some individuals may face side effects, such as increased blood pressure, confusion, memory problems, feelings of detachment, and potential for misuse.
Can Ketamine Therapy Cause Dissociative Symptoms?
Ketamine therapy offers the promise of rapid antidepressant effects, making it an appealing option for individuals battling treatment-resistant depression. However, research published in Nature Communications highlights that ketamine can induce short-term dissociative effects. Users often experience changes in consciousness and perception, which may result in feelings of detachment from their body, environment, or even reality itself.
In therapeutic settings, these dissociative experiences are usually mild and brief, though their intensity can vary based on dosage and the individual’s sensitivity to the medication. The most pronounced effects typically occur during the initial phase of the drug’s action, lasting a few hours before gradually subsiding. While these dissociative experiences can be unsettling, trained therapists or healthcare professionals are present in clinical settings to support patients and ensure their safety throughout the process. For those with a history of specific psychiatric issues, such as dissociative disorders or psychosis, ketamine therapy may not be advisable, as it could trigger or worsen dissociative symptoms.
Contact Moment of Clarity for Alternatives to Alcohol and Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine therapy has shown significant potential in addressing depression and substance use disorders, but it is not typically the first line of treatment. It is usually considered when other, more established therapies have not been effective. It’s crucial to understand that ketamine does not provide a permanent solution; instead, it alleviates symptoms temporarily. If you’re facing challenges with depression and alcohol use, Moment of Clarity presents alternatives to alcohol and ketamine therapy. As a dedicated mental health treatment facility, we provide extensive outpatient programs tailored for depression, which may be influencing your drinking patterns. Our individualized treatment strategy combines various therapies, medications, and holistic methods to find the most effective solutions for you. Through a thorough mental health evaluation, our clinicians can create a suitable treatment plan and identify any underlying health issues that might be contributing to your symptoms.
If you are curious about ketamine for alcohol dependence, reach out to Moment of Clarity today to discover how our comprehensive mental health treatment programs could serve as a more suitable initial option for you. Don’t hesitate to call us at 949-625-0564.
External Sources
- Encyclopedia Britannica – Ketamine
- National Library of Medicine – Ketamine Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Systematic Review
- Anxiety & Depression Association of America – Ketamine: A Rising Star in Mental Health Treatment
- Nature Communications – The role of dissociation in ketamine’s antidepressant effects
