ADAA Blog: Ketamine: A Rising Star in Mental Health Treatment

[ADAATeamRachel]

ADAA member Allison Wells, MD discusses the benefits of ketamine in mental health treatment.

"Ketamine is not a new phenomenon, though it seems to be in the news a lot these days as if it had been recently discovered.

But ketamine has been a breakthrough treatment for anxiety, depression, and suicidality. Its ability to provide rapid and effective relief in treatment-resistant cases offers hope to those struggling with severe mental health challenges."

Learn more about ketamine treatment here: adaa.org/learn-from-us/from...

[blackcat64013]

Hi Rachel,I am currently participating in a clinical trial of oral ketamine in Adelaide, Australia.

The trial involves taking a tablet at home twice a week rather than using a nasal spray or by IV. Ketamine is an add on to current medication.

The benefit to me after the first doses personally has been amazing. Some parts of the old me are back.

My treating psychiatrist was sceptical about me participating but said last week it's the first time I have said I am better than okay in 20 years.

My only concern is what happens when the trial ends. I have to trust the two psychiatrists have got my back.

PS: the Australian trial protocol is XW10508-102

[ADAATeamRachel Partner in reply to blackcat64013]

I'm so happy to hear that you are feeling like your old self again. I bet that has been amazing! And I'm sure if you continue to have good results with this treatment, even in a trial, your psychiatrists will do their best to get you the care you need afterwards.