Ketamine: New Uses for an Old Drug
Ketamine's History and Use
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been used for decades to induce and maintain anesthesia during surgery. It is also used off-label to treat chronic pain, depression, and other conditions.Ketamine's Effects on the Brain
Ketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptor in the brain. This receptor is involved in a variety of functions, including pain perception, mood regulation, and memory. By blocking the NMDA receptor, ketamine can produce a variety of effects, including: * Disorientation * Confusion * Loss of motor coordination * Increased blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, or body temperature * Visual problems * Dizziness * Nausea or vomiting * Confusion * A sense of floating or feeling detached from the bodyKetamine's New Uses
In recent years, ketamine has been shown to have promise in treating a variety of conditions, including: * Chronic pain: Ketamine has been shown to be effective in reducing chronic pain in patients who have not responded to other treatments. * Depression: Ketamine has been shown to rapidly reduce symptoms of depression in patients who have not responded to other treatments. * Other conditions: Ketamine is also being studied for its potential to treat a variety of other conditions, including anxiety, PTSD, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.Ketamine's Safety and Side Effects
Ketamine is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, it can cause side effects, including: * Nausea and vomiting * Dizziness * Confusion * Hallucinations * Increased blood pressure and heart rate * Respiratory depression Ketamine should not be used by people who have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or other serious medical conditions.Conclusion
Ketamine is a promising new treatment for a variety of conditions. However, more research is needed to determine its long-term safety and efficacy. Last updated on Oct 6 2023. 
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