KETAMINE FOR ADDICTION
Addiction typically occurs due to the brain and body experiencing a form of elation when consuming a substance. Dependency can then form, and the initial bliss that was felt after consuming drugs or alcohol can quickly turn into misery.
Ketamine infusion works by binding to the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NDMA) glutamate receptors found in the body, ketamine blocks signals to the brain, giving the brain a chance to form new neural pathways.
Ketamine influences drink-related memories
With recurrent alcohol use, the brain creates alcohol-related memories that serve as powerful drivers to continue using alcohol, despite harm to health and interference with daily life. Ketamine is shown to disrupt harmful behavior patterns.
Strong memories related to substance use can create powerful urges when trying to stop. These memories can hijack the mind and increase vulnerability to relapse.
Ketamine can disrupt memories and susceptibility to environmental triggers. For example, passing by a bottle of alcohol at the local store can trigger powerful memories from when alcohol was consumed, making it difficult to resist. Ketamine can disrupt these memories and thus the cravings when exposed to environmental triggers.
Ketamine and NAD reduce cravings
In people with drug addiction, the brain creates pathways related to drug use. When you use drugs, your brain releases chemicals related to behavior reward. It’s this reward feedback information that creates new pathways in the brain meant to reinforce the behavior.
These pathways drive you to repeat drug use even if it is causing harm. Ketamine and NAD can help interfere with drug-related pathways. NAD helps flush drugs and alcohol out of the system, while ketamine blocks reward signals related to addiction.
As a result, patients experience reduced cravings for their drug of choice, making it easier to recover mentally and physically. A comprehensive treatment plan can help you abstain and recover from drug and alcohol addiction.