Ketamine

Ketamine is increasingly being studied and utilized as a rapid-acting treatment option for people facing severe, treatment-resistant depression—especially those who have not responded well to conventional antidepressants. Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has unique properties that differ from SSRIs, making it particularly promising for those with long-standing depressive symptoms. Unlike SSRIs, which may take weeks to show effects by increasing serotonin availability, ketamine acts on glutamate—a neurotransmitter linked to mood regulation—and can alleviate depressive symptoms within hours. This speed is crucial for patients who may also experience suicidal ideation, as traditional antidepressants often take several weeks to become effective​.

Ketamine can be administered in several forms, including intravenous (IV) infusion, intranasal spray (such as Spravato), and oral formulations. While intranasal and IV ketamine are known for their fast-acting benefits, they vary in duration. Studies from Harvard Medical School found that a majority of patients experienced a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms following ketamine infusions, with effects lasting up to six months. Many patients respond well after the initial six infusions, typically administered over two to three weeks, though maintenance doses are sometimes necessary. This form of ketamine therapy has been shown to offer relief where traditional medications fail, although it may cause temporary dissociation or sedation​

For individuals with treatment-resistant depression, ketamine offers a distinct alternative when considering inpatient or intensive outpatient treatment. While its use in a controlled setting is highly recommended to monitor for side effects, the rapid relief it provides can help manage acute symptoms. Moreover, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is emerging as a complementary option, where therapy sessions are integrated to help patients process their experience and benefit from mood stabilization. This is especially helpful for those who may not achieve long-term remission with ketamine alone, as it may require ongoing treatment for sustained effectiveness.

Because ketamine’s benefits are still being explored, patients considering it should consult with mental health professionals and ensure their treatment plan includes safety protocols, particularly since the dissociative and hallucinogenic side effects differ significantly from those of standard antidepressants. For more detailed insights into ketamine’s use in mental health, check out the full articles from Psychology Today