The Neuroscience of Ketamine

illustration of a neural synapse releasing glutamate

The human brain is a complex organ that is responsible for our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is made up of billions of interconnected neurons that communicate with each other through synapses. Neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers of the brain, play a crucial role in this communication process…

Ketamine vs. SSRIs to Treat Depression

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Depression can be treated in a number of ways. The traditional SSRI treatment is effective for some, but not for everyone. Studies on ketamine have shown that it is very helpful with depression, especially when other treatments have not been able to help as much.

Ketamine FDA Approval & Off-label Use

illustration of roads showing off label and on label use of ketamine

The use of ketamine is considered “on-label” when it is used for medical purposes that the FDA has approved it for. When it is used for other conditions that are not covered by the FDA designation, then the use is considered “off-label”.

Neurotransmitters and Their Functions on the Brain

illustration of a person sitting and looking at constellations in the sky

The brain relies on specialized chemicals called neurotransmitters to communicate with the nervous system and body. Different neurotransmitters are involved in a wide array of functions, depending on which neural circuits they act on.