Ketamine Therapy for Depression

When traditional antidepressants fall short, ketamine offers rapid, meaningful relief. FDA breakthrough therapy designation for treatment-resistant depression.

70%
Response Rate
4 hrs
Onset of Relief
50%+
Remission Rate
2019
FDA Breakthrough

Why Ketamine for Depression?

Major depressive disorder affects over 21 million adults in the U.S. While SSRIs and SNRIs help many, roughly one-third of patients don't respond adequately to conventional antidepressants. Ketamine works through an entirely different mechanism—targeting glutamate and NMDA receptors—offering hope for those with treatment-resistant depression.

  • Rapid onset: many patients feel improvement within hours, not weeks
  • Works when SSRIs, SNRIs, and other antidepressants haven't helped
  • Promotes neuroplasticity and new neural connections
  • Can reduce suicidal ideation quickly in supervised settings
  • FDA breakthrough therapy designation for treatment-resistant depression

How Ketamine Treats Depression

Unlike traditional antidepressants that target serotonin or norepinephrine, ketamine modulates the glutamate system—the brain's most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter. By blocking NMDA receptors and triggering a cascade of downstream effects, ketamine rapidly promotes synaptogenesis (the formation of new synaptic connections) in brain regions affected by depression.

  • Blocks NMDA receptors to trigger rapid neuroplasticity
  • Increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) production
  • Restores synaptic connections weakened by chronic depression
  • Effects can be felt within hours rather than the 4-6 weeks typical of SSRIs
  • Sublingual (oral) administration for safe at-home use

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Ketamine therapy for depression is designed for adults who have not found adequate relief from other treatments. Our board-certified physicians carefully evaluate each patient to ensure safety and appropriateness.

  • Adults 18+ with major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder
  • Tried at least one antidepressant without adequate improvement
  • No uncontrolled hypertension or unstable cardiovascular conditions
  • No active substance use disorder or psychotic disorders
  • Able to have a trusted companion present during sessions

Your Treatment Journey

From your first assessment to ongoing support, our process is designed for safety, comfort, and effectiveness—all from the privacy of your home.

  • Free online eligibility assessment (under 5 minutes)
  • Video consultation with a board-certified physician
  • Personalized treatment plan and dosing protocol
  • Medication delivered discreetly to your door
  • AI-guided sessions with real-time safety monitoring (KetAI)
  • Integration support with journaling and reflection tools
  • Follow-up visits to track progress and adjust treatment

Clinical Evidence for Ketamine & Depression

A single IV ketamine infusion produced rapid antidepressant effects within 2 hours in patients with treatment-resistant depression, with effects lasting up to one week. (Zarate et al., 2006 (Archives of General Psychiatry))

In a randomized controlled trial, 64% of patients with treatment-resistant depression responded to ketamine versus 28% receiving midazolam (active placebo). (Murrough et al., 2013 (American Journal of Psychiatry))

Meta-analysis of 9 double-blind, randomized controlled trials confirmed ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects, with a 52% response rate at 24 hours versus 8% for placebo. (Han et al., 2016 (Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment))

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does ketamine work for depression?

Many patients notice improvement within hours of their first session. Clinical studies show significant antidepressant effects within 4-24 hours, compared to 4-6 weeks for traditional antidepressants. A full treatment course (6-12 sessions) is recommended for sustained benefit.

Is ketamine FDA-approved for depression?

Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic. Its use for depression is considered "off-label," which means physicians can legally prescribe it based on clinical evidence. In 2019, esketamine (Spravato), a nasal spray form, received FDA approval for treatment-resistant depression. Our oral (sublingual) ketamine is prescribed off-label.

Can I take ketamine with my current antidepressants?

In many cases, yes. Ketamine works through a different mechanism than SSRIs, SNRIs, and other traditional antidepressants, so it can often be used alongside them. However, certain medications (particularly MAOIs and some benzodiazepines) may need adjustment. Your physician will review all your medications during your consultation.

How long do the antidepressant effects last?

Individual responses vary. Some patients experience relief lasting days to weeks after a single session. With a full treatment course and integration practices, many patients achieve sustained improvement. Maintenance sessions may be recommended to extend benefits.

What if ketamine doesn't work for my depression?

While approximately 70% of patients with treatment-resistant depression respond to ketamine, it's not effective for everyone. If you don't respond after an adequate trial, your physician will discuss alternative approaches and referrals. You'll receive a full refund if determined ineligible during your initial evaluation.

Ready to Start Healing?

Check your eligibility in under 5 minutes. Free, no obligation.