Part 4/11:
Ketamine’s journey from an anesthetic to a pioneering antidepressant illustrates this transformative potential. Approved by the FDA in 1970 for surgical use, ketamine's safety profile has made it a staple in hospitals worldwide. Yet, only in the last two decades has it been recognized for its remarkable antidepressant properties at low, subanesthetic doses. Clinical research indicates that ketamine can produce rapid, significant improvements in depression, often within just a few sessions. Studies show that 80-90% of users experience quick benefits, with minimal side effects reported.