Resources

Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

The Integration Process: Making the Most of Your Ketamine Experience

During a ketamine session, many patients experience powerful emotions or realizations. Without integration, those insights may fade as the mind returns to old routines. With consistent reflection and support, they can take root and lead to lasting improvements in mood, behavior, and self-awareness. Integration transforms moments of insight into steady personal growth.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Is My Medication Safe to Take with Ketamine?

At Discreet Ketamine, one of the most common questions we hear from patients is:

“I’m already taking X medication — is it safe to combine it with ketamine?”

This is an important question.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

The Clinical Relevance of the Ketamine-Induced Dissociative State (“K-Hole”)

The “K-hole” refers to a profound dissociative experience characterized by detachment from bodily awareness, alterations in perception of time and space, and immersion into symbolic or visionary states of consciousness. Patients frequently report sensations of ego dissolution, experiences of floating or traveling outside the body, and exposure to vivid imagery that may feel spiritual or transformative.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Nasal Ketamine: Relief for Chronic Pain and Depression

Nasal ketamine has emerged on the scene as a powerful tool in the management of treatment-resistant depression and chronic pain syndromes. As one of the most innovative methods of ketamine administration, it offers convenience and effectiveness, catering to various patient needs.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

The Psychedelic Effects of Ketamine in Mental Health Treatment

While ketamine’s primary mechanism in mental health treatment involves the modulation of glutamate and NMDA receptors in the brain, it’s the subjective experiences, often described as "psychedelic effects", that fascinate and sometimes surprise patients the most.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

How Does Ketamine Work for Treatment-Resistant Depression and Anxiety

One of the key factors that make Ketamine treatment so promising is its impact on neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's remarkable ability to rewire itself, forming new neural connections and adapting to changing circumstances. Ketamine has been found to stimulate the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that plays a critical role in promoting neuroplasticity.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

ODT/RDT vs. Troche: Maximizing Oral Drug Absorption

RDT’s are designed to disintegrate quickly in the mouth, often within seconds, without the need for water. They offer several advantages, including convenience and improved patient compliance, making them particularly useful for pediatric and geriatric populations. These tablets disintegrate when they come into contact with saliva, and the drug is then held in the mouth for oral absorption or swallowed for intestinal absorption.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Ketamine History: Its Origin and Science

Ketamine's known history began in the early 1960s when Dr. Calvin Stevens and his team at Parke-Davis embarked on a journey to develop a novel anesthetic. Their aim was to create a safer alternative to phencyclidine (PCP), which, while effective, had severe side effects and neurotoxicity. After years of research, the team synthesized ketamine in 1962.‍ ‍

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Risks and Side Effects of Ketamine Treatment: What You Need to Know

Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has gained attention in recent years for its potential in treating various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the use of ketamine in these treatments shows promise, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with its use.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Nurturing Your Mind: Natural Methods for Optimal Mental Health

Regular physical activity not only benefits your body but also your mind. Exercise releases endorphins, natural mood lifters that reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, boost self-esteem, and improve sleep quality. Engaging in activities you enjoy, whether it's a daily walk, yoga, dancing, or gym workouts, can be a powerful stress buster.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

How to Safely Take Ketamine: Best Practices for At-Home Ketamine Therapy

When ready, take the prescribed ketamine tablet and place it under your tongue. Ketamine tablets are designed to dissolve, so try to keep it in your mouth for as long as possible. The taste may be challenging, and saliva may accumulate, leading to unintentional swallowing. Spitting out the residue after 10 minutes may help reduce nausea. Some choose to swallow the residue which will prolong the effect.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Ketamine vs. Traditional Antidepressants: A Comprehensive Comparison

Depression and anxiety are widespread mental health conditions, affecting millions globally. When it comes to treatment, various approaches are available, including traditional SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Zoloft and Prozac, SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Cymbalta or Effexor, and ketamine.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Exploring the Efficacy of Oral Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been used for decades in medical and veterinary settings. In recent years, it has gained attention as a potential breakthrough in the treatment of TRD. While intravenous (IV) ketamine has been used successfully in clinical settings as a rapid-acting antidepressant, it requires medical supervision and is not accessible to everyone.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Moshe’s Experience

My thoughts slowed but didn’t stop. It was gentle, a soothing journey accompanied by a feeling of intense tranquility. The tightness that had plagued my neck and upper body for so long began to relent. After an hour, the initial wave of sensations subsided, but its impact lingered.

Colors appeared brighter, and I felt more present, more capable of confronting life’s challenges. As I see it, I used to take Benzos to escape uncomfortable and frightening feelings, to dull the pain, to forget.

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Dr. Ben Soffer Dr. Ben Soffer

Ketamine Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Tips and Prevention

Ketamine acts on the central nervous system, affecting various neurotransmitters. It can disrupt the normal functioning of the vestibular system, responsible for balance and spatial orientation, leading to dizziness and nausea.

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