Many individuals suffer from hair loss. It is a common issue that affects a lot of people.
One of the more recent hair loss treatment trends is Ketamine injections, which are said to stimulate hair growth.
However, there is little scientific evidence that ketamine can reverse balding and even fewer data about its effects on hair follicles.
The theory behind this treatment revolves around a study done in China where mice with damaged or destroyed follicles were injected with ketamine and had their follicle functions restored within 2 weeks.
Unfortunately, the effectiveness of this treatment has not been tested on humans yet.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine hydrochloride [ketamine] is a medication that has been approved by the FDA for use as an anesthetic.
In lower doses ketamine is used as a sedative and in higher doses, it can cause hallucinogenic effects.
There are benefits to using Ketamine, especially in people who have anesthesia-induced confusion or delirium due to their surgery or illness.
It has also been shown in some studies that in higher doses ketamine might prevent depression in cancer patients.
However, because of its hallucinogenic properties, many countries limit the prescription of this drug to trained medical staff only.
Also, it should not be taken with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or opioids.
Can Ketamine Grow Hair In Humans?
Ketamine has several effects on the body that might cause hair growth, which has not been tested in humans.
Both in mice and rats, it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in the central nervous system.
It also has immunomodulating effects in these animals, which means that it can activate certain immune cells.
Stimulating hair growth by increasing follicle size and prolonging the anagen phase. Increase blood supply to the scalp which promotes both circulation and cell metabolism.
Possess antioxidant effects, preventing damage to the skin, and promoting wound healing.
It was also demonstrated in one study that ketamine can stimulate stem cell proliferation when injected into mouse skin, but this only applies to skin cells – it is unlikely to have an effect on hair follicles.
You can click here to read more about ketamine therapy on the website.
Both mice and rats have been seen to grow hair better when they are injected with ketamine.
The ketamine works by suppressing the immune system that would normally fight off the hair implantation, giving it room to grow.
Other than stimulating hair growth, ketamine can also be used for depression treatment due to its antidepressant-like effect on the central nervous system.
There are reports of using Ketamine as a stimulant during psychotherapy sessions to improve mood, alleviate anxiety or resolve past traumas – but all of these instances are taking very small doses which are only 0.5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight.
However, if you are considering trying this treatment for yourself or a loved one who suffers from hair loss then consult your doctor first.
There are some risks associated with taking Ketamine and some of these might outweigh the potential benefits of restoring hair growth.
Does It Cause Any Side Effects?
Ketamine is a drug that has several side effects, although they are usually mild and can be quickly reversed once the medication has been stopped.
The most common side effect of ketamine use in humans is hallucinations.
Other less common side effects include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Visual problems such as watery eyes, blurred vision, etc.
- Dry mouth
- Itching or eczema at the site of injection
Which Patients Should Avoid Using Ketamine?
There are certain groups of people who should not take ketamine without their doctor’s approval.
These include:
- People with glaucoma
- People with epilepsy
- Pregnant women (or those who might get pregnant)
- People with liver disease
- Depression and asthma
Do I Need A Prescription?
Ketamine is available for medical use only, and only physicians with relevant training and experience should prescribe this medication to their patients.
Your doctor will decide whether ketamine is right for you after having performed a full examination and assessment of your condition.
The Chronicles Of Ketamine
It is important to note that different countries will have different rules about what kinds of drugs can be taken and Who is allowed to prescribe them.
It is also important to consult with your doctor before trying ketamine yourself or giving it to someone else who’s suffering from hair loss.
The progressive exploration of ketamine use:
- 1971-1980s – Recreational use of ketamine increases, causing its classification as a Schedule III drug in 1981 due to problems like hallucinations, respiratory depression, lack of coordination, etc.
- 2004 – Small clinical studies show that low doses (2mg/kg) of intravenous ketamine might actually help manage chronic pain in the long term.
- 2013 – Researchers discuss how even though ketamine has been around for decades its exact mechanism of action (MOA) still remains unknown.
- 2016 – A research team successfully implants ketamine-injected hair follicles in the skin of mice, finding that it could both boost follicle size and prolong the anagen phase. The human clinical trials are still missing.
Other Helpful Ways To Stimulate Hair Growth
While there is evidence that ketamine may play a role in hair growth, there are many other lifestyle changes you need to make as well if you want to restore your hair.
You should consider using shampoos and conditioners formulated for damaged hair as these will help protect your scalp from further damage as well as promoting healthy hair growth.
Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins B6, C, E, zinc, copper, selenium, iron, etc, can also be beneficial for healthy hair growth.
The combination of things like stress management, good sleeping habits, and good nutrition should always be the first step in treating hair loss.
If that doesn’t work then you may want to consider other alternatives such as prescription medication, laser treatments, etc.
To Sum Up
Ketamine is an interesting substance, but so far the evidence is only supported by animal studies.
It is important to weigh up the benefits against the risks before you decide to try it for yourself or your loved one who suffers from hair loss.
Oral supplements containing ketoconazole might be a better alternative if you are looking for alternative ways of stimulating hair growth.