Since its introduction as an anesthetic in the ‘60s and its subsequent fall from fashion in the ‘80s, ketamine’s comeback has been an interesting one to watch. Reintroduced to hospital emergency departments as a sedative and analgesic in the late ‘90s, and recently discovered to be a highly effective antidepressant, pain reliever, addiction treatment and potential PTSD vaccine, emergency medical service providers and first-responders are beginning to leveraging the versatility of the drug to provide the best possible care for patients.
According to the Journal of Emergency Medical Services (JEMS), EMS technicians and other first-responders are relying on ketamine for three primary pre-hospital applications: sedation, pain and behavioral control. You can read more about how ketamine is being used in emergency medical services in the article, ‘Ketamine’s Versatility Makes it a Powerful Tool for EMS.’
Safe for administration to children and adults, the fact that ketamine addresses so many medical issues makes it a miracle drug for first-responders and patients alike. In our experience, the antidepressant effects of ketamine can be life changing – even life saving. We so often see ketamine succeed where conventional antidepressants have failed. Though the drug is highly versatile, it’s also highly misunderstood. We hope that with the advocacy of EMS and other medical professionals, ketamine can carve out its place as an effective drug for physical and mental healing.
CONTACT VITALITAS
Vitalitas Denver specializes in the use of ketamine for depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and chronic pain. If you think you would be a good candidate for ketamine infusions, or if you simply have questions about how ketamine works as a treatment for depression, please contact us via the brief form below, or by calling (720) 724-8075.
