Ketamine has been explored as a potential treatment for chronic pain, and there is evidence suggesting its effectiveness in certain cases.

How Does Ketamine Work to Help Chronic Pain?

Ketamine is an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist. NMDA receptors play a role in the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system. By blocking these receptors, ketamine may interrupt or modulate the perception of pain. Chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain, can involve central sensitization, where the nervous system becomes hypersensitive to pain signals. Ketamine may help inhibit central sensitization, thereby reducing the perception of pain. Ketamine has anti-inflammatory properties, and inflammation is often associated with pain. By reducing inflammation, ketamine may contribute to pain relief in conditions with an inflammatory component.

Ketamine Treats the Perception of Pain Quickly

One notable characteristic of ketamine is its rapid onset of action compared to traditional pain medications. While conventional pain medications may take weeks to months to produce noticeable effects, ketamine can sometimes lead to improvements within hours to days. This rapid onset has made ketamine a subject of interest for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments for chronic pain.