IV ketamine is an effective treatment for major depressive disorder, treatment-resistant depression, and other mood conditions. It is given by intravenous infusion, and while considered off-label, it has been shown in numerous studies to provide rapid relief of depressive symptoms for many patients.

Ketamine targets NMDA receptors in the glutamate system of the brain, rather than the serotonin system that most standard antidepressants affect. This mechanism is thought to promote neuroplasticity and help restore healthy communication between brain cells, leading to improvements in mood, thinking, and resilience.

IV ketamine treatment typically begins with an initial or acute phase of twice-weekly sessions for the first four weeks, followed by once-weekly sessions during weeks five through eight. After that, the frequency is gradually reduced, individualized based on each patient’s progress and needs.

At the start of every ketamine session at Rumi Mind Health, you will meet with your interventional psychiatrist, who will reassess your progress and overall treatment trajectory. Afterwards, you will receive the infusion in a private treatment room designed for comfort and relaxation. A registered nurse remains with you throughout the entire session, carefully monitoring your safety and supporting you to ensure that you have the most positive and therapeutic experience possible.

The most common side effects of ketamine include dissociation (a feeling of disconnection), dizziness, nausea, headache, sleepiness, and temporary increases in blood pressure. Serious adverse events are rare. Because ketamine can affect blood pressure, it is contraindicated in people with certain medical conditions such as aneurysmal vascular disease, intracerebral hemorrhage, or uncontrolled hypertension. These factors are why ketamine must be given only in a clinic setting by providers with specialized training, and the expertise to screen for, monitor and manage any side effects or complications.

Ketamine has been used safely in medicine for decades as an anesthetic, where it is commonly used for adults, adolescents and children. It is also on the WHO’s list of essential medications. In psychiatric use, clinical studies and real-world practice have demonstrated it can be both safe and effective when delivered by experienced providers in a specialized clinic.

Some patients receiving IV ketamine notice improvement as early as after the very first treatment, while others notice significant improvement after a few treatments. The full benefit often builds over the course of the acute series.

Because ketamine for depression is an off-label use, it is typically not covered by insurance. At Rumi Mind Health, we provide transparent pricing and can discuss financing or payment options to help make treatment accessible.

Ketamine is generally intended for patients who have not achieved relief with multiple standard antidepressants, or who are experiencing severe depression with suicidal thoughts. An evaluation with our team will help determine if it is appropriate for you.