You’ve heard the buzz. But what about the science? Learn what the research shows about the effectiveness of ketamine in treating mental health disorders.
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Ketamine Therapy for Depression
Depression affects over 20 million adults in the US. 30% of them do not respond to traditional psychiatric treatment.
How Ketamine Treats Depression
Traditional antidepressants regulate serotonin and norepinephrine, chemicals that affect mood. In contrast, ketamine blocks the so-called NMDA receptor in the brain. This increases the neurotransmitter glutamate, promoting the growth of new neural connections and potentially leading to lasting changes in brain function. Ketamine also affects other receptors to quickly stabilize mood, offering rapid relief compared to the slower effect of traditional antidepressants.
Recent research shows that ketamine therapy for depression is a promising treatment, especially for those suffering from treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
Ready to find lasting relief from depression?
Ketamine therapy is clinically proven to provide relief for individuals with treatment-resistant depression.
What Is Depression?
Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think and act. Approximately 9.5% of American adults suffer from a depressive illness. Depression can strike anyone at any age, but usually begins in the late teens to mid-20s. The most common symptoms are:
- Persistent sadness, irritability, or a sense of emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or weight (eating significantly more or less)
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering things
- Restlessness or slowed movements and speech
- Feelings of worthlessness, thoughts of death and self-harm or suicide attempts
For a diagnosis of depression, these symptoms need to persist for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks.
How Is Depression Treated?
Depression is treatable, often through a combination of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, and medications called antidepressants. Antidepressants are not a single type of drug, but rather a class of medications that help regulate brain chemistry, which can contribute to depression. While many respond well to treatment, for others, finding the right type of therapy or medication can be a long, challenging process. And about 30% of individuals with depression continue to experience symptoms despite trying multiple therapies, a condition known as treatment-resistant depression.
The Process: Treating Depression with Ketamine
Schedule Free
Consultation
Consultation
Our treatment process starts with a personal consultation, where we take time to understand your unique challenges. We collaborate with you and your health providers to create a personalized care plan.
Begin
Treatment
Treatment
From the moment you enter our clinic, you’ll be greeted with a smile and a calm environment. After a quick exam, our staff ensures you’re completely comfortable and ready to begin.
During
Treatment
Treatment
Settle into a cozy reclining chair in a private room. You’ll receive an eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, and music options. Each treatment lasts 40-50 minutes, and our attentive medical team will be by your side.
Regular
Sessions
Sessions
Our physicians design a customized treatment plan for each patient. We offer IV ketamine and Spravato nasal spray. The induction period lasts 3-4 weeks and includes 6-8 sessions. Maintenance sessions are scheduled based on each patient’s needs.
"Dr. Malina and the staff make the experience so calming and enjoyable. The treatment is wonderful and I highly recommend it to anyone who is struggling."
- Meagen P.
Rapid Relief for Depression
Feel better in just hours to days.
70%
patient response rate to ketamine treatment.
5 years
long term efficacy of Spravato (esketamine) treatment.
52%
remission rate within just 4 weeks.
2-4 hours
until most IV ketamine patients report an improvement in their symptoms.
What Our Patients Say
“Love this center. The ambiance is pleasant, the doctors are attentive, and it is a welcoming environment for a very difficult treatment. I am thankful I have had the opportunity to go here in NJ – it’s worth the trip from NY!”
– Tamar W.
“Very friendly, compassionate, inviting clinic to take your newfound journey. I love coming to my appointments here!“
– Anthony D.
“Warm and welcoming environment. Lovely and caring staff ❤️ Ketamine is working for me! My depression had started to impact my quality of life and ketamine is helping me with energy levels, the lethargy has diminished, and I am able to think more clearly. Less brain fog. Anyone severely depressed might want to consider Ketamine treatments.”
– Irene S.
Research
Below are several studies about the effectiveness of ketamine and esketamine in treating depression. Ketamine-based therapy is a subject of ongoing research and is frequently covered in both mainstream media and scientific journals.
FAQs
Is ketamine therapy safe?
Yes, when administered under medical supervision by trained physicians, ketamine therapy is safe. At Keta Medical Center, our team is led by emergency medicine physicians with extensive training, ensuring that every treatment adheres to the highest standards of medical safety.
What are the potential side effects of ketamine therapy?
Side effects may include mild nausea, dizziness, feelings of dissociation, anxiety or increased blood pressure. These typically resolve shortly after the treatment session. Our medical team monitors patients closely to manage any side effects effectively.
Is ketamine treatment covered by insurance?
Esketamine (Spravato) Nasal Spray is covered by most insurance plans. IV ketamine infusions are not typically covered.
Stay Updated
Both ECT and ketamine therapies are proven to help people with TRD. What are the pros and cons of each?
A new Stanford study identified 6 biotypes of depression. Learn why the study is so significant for treatment.
Ready for Relief?
We know life is busy, so at Keta Medical Center, we offer evening and weekend hours to fit your schedule. Our friendly administrative staff is always available to answer your questions and address any concerns. Our goal is to support you as you embark on your mental health journey with ketamine therapy.