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