Ketamine is the new exiting breakthrough treatment for Depression, Anxiety and OCD, but how does it work in your brain?

One of the important finding has been that it promotes the release of something called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and enhances synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex.

What is Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)?

To understand in easy terms, think of BDNF as a kind of “growth fertiliser” for your brain cells. It helps your brain cells grow, sustain, and connect with other brain cells around. When your brain has high level of of BDNF, it’s better at making new connections and repairing itself. This is very important for learning, memory, and overall brain health.

Also Read: Is Ketamine Therapy effective in long term remission of Depression symptoms?

What is Synaptic Plasticity?

Synaptic plasticity is a medical term for how flexible and adaptable your brain is. It refers to the ability of your brain neuron’s to form new connections with each other. Imagine your brain is like a network of roads and highways. Synaptic plasticity is like having construction crews that can build new roads or repair and improve existing ones. This ability to repair and renew is crucial for your brain to process information, adapt to new situations, and recover from stress or injury.

Also Read: TMS vs. Ketamine: Which is More Appropriate for You?

The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex is a part of your brain located at the front, just behind your forehead and is most developed in Humans compared to other animals. This area is responsible for cognitive tasks like decision-making, problem-solving, and controlling your emotions. When the prefrontal cortex is functioning well, you’re better able to manage stress and make good decisions.

Also Read: Exploring the Synergistic Effects of Combining TMS and Ketamine in Mental Health Treatment

When you do Ketamine therapy, How Does it Help?

Lets see how Ketamine helps with the whole process we discussed above:

1. Ketamine helps your brain release more BDNF. Remember, BDNF is the “growth fertiliser” for your brain cells. With more BDNF, your brain cells can grow better and form stronger connections.
2. By increasing BDNF, ketamine boosts synaptic plasticity. This means your brain becomes more flexible and adaptable. It can form new connections more easily and repair existing ones. This is especially helpful in the prefrontal cortex, which is the area controlling your emotional centres.

In Conclusion, with enhanced synaptic plasticity in the prefrontal cortex, your brain can function better. You may find it easier to manage stress, make decisions, and control your emotions. This is the reason that ketamine can be so effective for treating depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions.