How Ketamine Helps
Chronic Pain
Although ketamine's especially effective for treating complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and other forms of neuropathic pain, ketamine is also effective in treating other kinds of pain conditions. These include refractory migraines, endometriosis, and pain from Inflammatory Bowel Diseases like Crohn’s and Colitis.
After finding little success with multiple doctors and typical treatments, chronic pain patients have reported feeling significant improvements after using ketamine. This is why:
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic pain conditions are often associated with inflammation in the nervous system. Ketamine has anti-inflammatory properties, and by reducing neuroinflammation, it may alleviate pain symptoms.
Central Sensitization:
Reduction of Pain-Related Anxiety and Depression:
Chronic pain conditions often coexist with anxiety and depression. Ketamine's rapid antidepressant and anxiolytic effects may indirectly contribute to pain relief by improving mood and reducing the emotional impact of pain.
Chronic pain is associated with central sensitization, where the nervous system becomes hypersensitive to pain signals. Ketamine may help normalize this sensitization, leading to a decrease in pain intensity.
Long-Lasting Effects
Some studies suggest that the effects of a series of ketamine infusions may persist beyond the immediate treatment period. This prolonged benefit could provide ongoing relief for individuals with chronic pain.
Modulation of Opioid Receptors:
Ketamine may interact with opioid receptors, influencing the activity of the endogenous opioid system. This interaction can enhance the analgesic effects of opioids, potentially allowing for lower opioid doses and minimizing side effects.
Glutamate Modulation:
Ketamine affects the release and reuptake of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in pain transmission. By modulating glutamate levels, ketamine may influence the overall processing of pain signals, contributing to pain relief.
NMDA Receptor Modulation:
Ketamine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. Chronic pain is often associated with abnormal NMDA receptor activity, leading to increased sensitivity to pain signals. Ketamine's modulation of these receptors may help normalize this activity, reducing pain perception.