WHAT IS KETAMINE?

Ketamine is an anesthetic medication that has been used for over 50 years. Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist and AMPA receptor stimulator which increases BDNF (brain derived neuropathic factor). BDNF stimulates the formation of new receptors and synapses in the central nervous system which helps increase the connection and communication between neurons.

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Most antidepressants act on the monoamine system of the brain, targeting serotonin or similar transmitters. Ketamine is different. It works on a completely separate system, the glutamate system.

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Many pain patients suffer from a process known as central sensitization, where pain signals increase in frequency and intensity over time. Ketamine acts to reset pain receptors and block signals of pain.