Ketamine infusion therapy is an innovative treatment that is rapidly transforming the landscape of mental health care. Originally developed as a safe and effective anesthetic in the 1970s, ketamine has since been discovered to have powerful antidepressant properties, especially for individuals who have not responded to traditional medications. Today, ketamine infusion therapy offers hope to many suffering from treatment-resistant depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and chronic anxiety.
Ketamine was first used as a general anesthetic during surgeries due to its rapid and effective action on the central nervous system. Over time, researchers observed that low doses of ketamine could have profound effects on mood disorders. Unlike conventional antidepressants—which primarily target neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine—ketamine works on the glutamate system, the brain’s most abundant neurotransmitter network. This unique mechanism allows ketamine to promote neuroplasticity, meaning it helps the brain form new neural connections essential for learning, memory, and emotional regulation.
In a clinical setting, ketamine is administered intravenously in carefully controlled low doses over 40 to 60 minutes. This process is typically done in specialized clinics like BrainStim under the supervision of trained healthcare professionals. During the infusion, ketamine blocks NMDA receptors and stimulates AMPA receptors, which facilitates the growth of synaptic connections. This leads to rapid relief from depressive symptoms, often within hours to days—a significant improvement compared to traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to work.
Patients may experience mild side effects during the infusion, such as a feeling of dissociation or altered perception. These effects are temporary and closely monitored by medical staff to ensure safety and comfort.
Ketamine infusion therapy is particularly effective for those with treatment-resistant depression—patients who have tried multiple antidepressants without significant improvement. It is also used to treat bipolar depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and certain anxiety disorders. In addition to mood disorders, ongoing research is exploring ketamine’s potential benefits for chronic pain management and other neurological conditions.
Although ketamine itself is a generic drug and not FDA-approved specifically for depression, an increasing body of research and clinical evidence supports its safety and efficacy when administered properly. Clinics like BrainStim adhere to rigorous clinical protocols, including comprehensive pre-treatment assessments, continuous monitoring during infusions, and post-treatment follow-ups. This ensures that patients receive the most effective dose with minimal side effects, all in a controlled and professional environment.
It’s important to avoid unsupervised or at-home ketamine use, which can be dangerous due to risks of improper dosing, psychological distress, and physical health complications.
Research continues to grow, with studies consistently demonstrating ketamine’s rapid antidepressant effects and its potential to revolutionize mental health treatment. Organizations such as the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists, and Practitioners (ASKP3) are setting treatment guidelines to improve safety and access.
As clinical experience expands, ketamine infusion therapy is expected to become an increasingly common option for individuals facing severe mood disorders, offering a new lease on life when other treatments have failed.
Ketamine infusion therapy is a promising breakthrough for those seeking rapid and effective relief from depression and other mood disorders. At BrainStim, we are committed to providing safe, compassionate, and evidence-based care to support your mental health journey.
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, contact BrainStim today to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy and whether it could be the right option for you.
Most patients start with a course of 6 sessions over 2 to 3 weeks, followed by maintenance treatments as needed.
Coverage varies. Patients should check with their insurance providers to understand benefits.
Many patients notice symptom relief within hours to days after the first infusion.
When administered by qualified professionals, long-term effects are minimal, and ongoing monitoring ensures safety.
No, patients are advised to arrange transportation after sessions due to possible temporary impairment.
