Context
Elon Musk revealed in an interview with Don Lemon that he used Ketamine to improve his mental state and suggested that individuals struggling with depression should consult their doctor about the potential benefits of the drug.
About Ketamine
- Like thiopental, ketamine, a drug of general use veterinarian, does not merely serve as inhaled anaesthetic; it is also for such patients needing long-term pain treatment due to systemic disease such as datum are tumours in cancer and post operation conditions aids alike.
- A likewise psychotropic hallucinogen. A few seconds later, wake up as well as dozed−if not more intensively so from one moment to the next. At the start of the century, ketamine therapy was born in the aftermath of general anaesthesia for clinical treatment of depression.
- In these last few years, it has really come home, though, and now many people who have experienced long-term lethargy and depressiveness without any clear reason are finding relief through the potency of such a wonderful medicine.
- Ket was used strictly as anaesthetic in some countries over a long time and with proper legal procedures.
- Since ketamine is not merely a medicine, but also leads to remarkable results when used outside of medical settings, such illegal use may be detrimental to health.
- The doctor is responsible for the amount of ketamine used in treatment for psychiatric problems; the health authorities could follow an approach less stringent than that for producing anaesthesia of victims’ shock in dealing with ketamine shock therapy.
- If all related side-effects are to be avoided and maximum therapeutic benefit reaped, the doctor must be the one to give Ketamine.
Positive Potential of Ketamine
- Ketamine is a fast-acting way to lift the mood of people with depression; this is especially suitable for individuals who are not helped by other treatments.
- Rapid relief is key for immediate suicide treatment because thoughts of suicide can be stopped fast with ketamine.
- Ketamine is used to treat chronic pain where other therapies have failed.
- New research is showing that the treatment of PTSD is doing a better job now on some issues.
- It can improve neuroplasticity, a brain function that allows the organ to reconfigure itself. Our brains become more flexible-or less so.
- Ketamine provides an effective replacement for treating depression.
Negative Potential of Ketamine
- Ketamine’s hallucinogenic and dissociative properties make it an attractive candidate for abuse and addiction.
- The drug’s common side effects, such as dissociation, hallucination, high blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, may persist even in measures available through clinical care. Long-term usage can lead to cognitive deficits.
- However, there have been no long term clinical studies on the efficiency and safety of this product over time.
- Ketamine therapy, particularly in treatment outside the research laboratory, can become expensive and you may find your insurance does not cover it.
- When used in these indications ketamine should be treated with care, no physician needs to told this: As said earlier in this text, ketamine although it does yield what traditional tranquillisers and hypnosedges cannot is nevertheless a hypnotic and for safety we have to warn everybody who considers this line of treatment to see past their therapist or doctor.
Conclusion
- Ketamine, a drug initially used for anaesthesia, has emerged as a significant player in treating certain mental health conditions, especially treatment-resistant depression.
- Its rapid action in alleviating depressive symptoms and reducing suicidal ideation is a notable advantage. Additionally, its potential in chronic pain management and PTSD treatment highlights its diverse therapeutic applications.
- However, its use is tempered by concerns over its high potential for abuse, a range of side effects, limited long-term research data, accessibility issues, and regulatory restrictions.
- Therefore, while ketamine presents promising avenues in psychiatry, its application necessitates careful oversight and consideration of individual patient factors to ensure safe and effective use.
Source: India Today
UPSC Mains Practice Question
Q.“Critically examine the potential benefits and risks associated with the use of Ketamine for mental health treatment. Discuss the ethical considerations and the need for regulatory frameworks to govern its use in the medical field.” [250 Words]
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