Many antidepressants work by adjusting your serotonin levels. However, ketamine primarily targets and blocks the activity of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in your brain. NMDA receptors are involved in regulating your mood, cognition, and pain perception. This approach creates new neural connections that are linked to mood stabilization and can help reframe your negative thought patterns. Because ketamine therapy has rapid-acting antidepressant effects, you might notice improvements in your symptoms within hours to days after your treatment.
Because ketamine operates differently from standard antidepressants in Oceanside, ketamine infusion therapy can serve as an alternative or supplement when prior treatments have not provided you with sufficient relief.
Ketamine infusion treatment in Oceanside may be a suitable option for you if your symptoms have persisted despite trying conventional medications or psychotherapy. You may be a strong candidate if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
During your initial evaluation, our clinicians will review your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals to confirm safety and eligibility. If you qualify, we will create a personalized plan that integrates ketamine treatment with supportive therapies, helping you achieve lasting relief and a renewed outlook on life.
Once you are cleared for Oceanside ketamine infusion therapy, you will come to our practice for your treatments. You can expect your treatment experience to look like the following:
We often recommend a series of six infusions over a two‑ to three‑week period. However, we may adjust the schedule based on your response. The antidepressant effects of the initial infusions may only last one to 10 days. After the initial course, you might benefit from periodic booster infusions to maintain your symptom relief.
Our Oceanside team will watch you for about 30 minutes after your ketamine infusion therapy. Some patients may experience mild side effects, such as imbalance, dizziness, or nausea, that may last for several hours. Since you will not be able to drive yourself home, you should arrange for a loved one to pick you up after your infusion. You should also not operate hazardous equipment, engage in high-risk activities, or drink alcohol for the rest of the day after your infusion.
If you have spent months or years feeling trapped by unrelenting depression or chronic pain, the rapid mood support offered by ketamine infusion therapy in Oceanside can feel like a breakthrough. Many patients find that they can reconnect with loved ones and return to activities they once enjoyed.
Our clinic is all about you – contact us now and schedule your evaluation. Discover whether ketamine therapy fits into your healing journey.