A Different Kind of Antidepressant

Most antidepressants work by increasing serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine in the brain. Ketamine is fundamentally different. It targets the glutamate system—the brain's primary excitatory neurotransmitter—to produce rapid changes in mood, cognition, and pain processing.

• Traditional antidepressants: target serotonin/norepinephrine (weeks to work)
• Ketamine: targets glutamate/NMDA receptors (hours to work)
• Promotes new synaptic connections (synaptogenesis) rather than just adjusting neurotransmitter levels
• Can provide relief even when all other medications have failed
• Opens a window for therapeutic change through enhanced neuroplasticity

The NMDA Receptor Connection

Ketamine is classified as an NMDA receptor antagonist. NMDA receptors are a type of glutamate receptor involved in learning, memory, and neuroplasticity. By temporarily blocking these receptors, ketamine triggers a cascade of downstream effects that promote brain healing.

• NMDA receptor blockade leads to a burst of glutamate release
• This glutamate surge activates AMPA receptors
• AMPA activation triggers mTOR signaling pathway
• mTOR promotes rapid production of synaptic proteins
• New synaptic connections form within hours—"rewiring" the brain

Neuroplasticity: The Key to Lasting Change

Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are associated with reduced neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to form new connections and adapt. Stress and trauma can cause synaptic atrophy, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. Ketamine reverses this by rapidly promoting synaptogenesis.

• Increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor)—the brain's "fertilizer"
• Restores synaptic density in the prefrontal cortex within 24 hours
• Reverses stress-induced neural atrophy
• Creates a window of enhanced plasticity for therapeutic integration
• Effects are synergistic with psychotherapy and integration practices

Sublingual Administration

Our at-home ketamine therapy uses sublingual (under-the-tongue) administration. This route provides effective blood levels while being safe for home use under medical supervision.

• Tablet dissolves under the tongue for absorption through oral mucosa
• Onset of effects typically within 10-20 minutes
• Peak effects at 40-60 minutes, total duration 2-3 hours
• Lower bioavailability than IV (30% vs 100%) but more sustained levels
• Safer for at-home use with proper medical oversight
• Dosing individualized by your physician based on response