Ketamine for OCD

Ketamine reduces obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors in patients living with OCD by blocking NMDA receptors and increasing the neurotransmitter glutamate, which promotes neuroplasticity and neural regeneration. This works differently than traditional medications by producing a surge in neuroplasticity that can help the brain form new, less rigid patterns of thinking and behavior, which may reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive responses and help people feel less “stuck”.

Many patients experience symptom relief within hours to days after a treatment, and some report early improvements after the first session. A typical induction course of ketamine for OCD lasts three to four weeks with six to eight sessions depending on the type of ketamine, and full benefits often emerge across that period. Individual responses vary in terms of timeline and extent.

Most patients continue their SSRI while receiving ketamine therapy for OCD.  Our physicians will review your medication list during the initial consultation and coordinate care with your prescribing clinician to ensure safety and optimize effectiveness.

A good candidate for ketamine treatment for OCD is someone who has persistent, intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors that have not improved or plateaued with standard oral medications. Ketamine may be appropriate for individuals who:

• Have treatment-resistant OCD, meaning they’ve tried multiple medications (such as SSRIs) or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy without enough relief
• Experience symptoms like depression or anxiety that significantly interfere with daily life or functioning
• Cannot tolerate the side effects of traditional OCD medications
• Are motivated to continue therapy or ERP while receiving ketamine, as ketamine can enhance treatment response

Keta Medical Center’s clinical team will review your symptoms, medical history, and current medications to determine whether ketamine is a safe and effective option for your OCD treatment plan.

The overwhelming majority of Keta Medical Center’s patients are covered by insurance and pay $50 or less per treatment.
Insurance coverage for OCD depends on the type of ketamine treatment you receive:

• Spravato® (Esketamine) is FDA-approved and many insurance providers will cover it for depression related to OCD.  Keta Medical Center will work with your insurer to complete the required prior authorization and provide documentation of your treatment history.
• IV Ketamine is considered an off-label treatment, so most insurance plans do not cover it. Therefore, it is typically an out-of-pocket service. Superbills for patients to submit to insurance providers are available. 

Keta Medical Center’s team can help you review your benefits, understand your coverage options, and determine the best financing plan to suit your needs and budget. Unsure? Schedule a consultation and we can help clarify.