For people who have tried several treatments for depression or chronic pain without enough relief, ketamine infusion therapy may be another option worth discussing. Here is a clear look at what it is, how it works and who may be a candidate.
What is ketamine?
Ketamine has been used as an anesthetic in hospitals for decades. At much lower doses, given slowly through an IV, it has been studied extensively for depression and certain pain conditions. A nasal form related to ketamine, esketamine, is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. Low-dose IV ketamine for mood and pain is prescribed off-label, which means it is used for a purpose beyond its original approval, a common and legal practice in medicine.
How does it work?
Most antidepressants act on serotonin or norepinephrine and can take weeks to work. Ketamine works differently. It acts on the brain’s glutamate system and is thought to help the brain form new connections between nerve cells. Some people notice improvement in mood within hours to days, rather than weeks. For chronic pain, ketamine may help calm overactive pain signaling in the nervous system.
What conditions may it help?
Research and clinical experience support ketamine infusions for some people with:
- Treatment-resistant depression (depression that has not improved after trying at least two antidepressants)
- Depression with suicidal thoughts, as part of a broader treatment plan with close professional support
- Certain anxiety disorders and PTSD
- Some chronic pain conditions, such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and neuropathic pain
Ketamine is meant to complement, not replace, your existing mental health or pain care. Ongoing therapy and your current providers remain important.
Who may be a candidate?
You may be a candidate if you:
- Have a diagnosed condition such as depression or chronic pain
- Have tried other treatments without enough relief
- Are medically stable and able to attend in-person sessions
- Have support from a mental health or pain provider, or are open to it
Who may not be a good fit?
Ketamine is not appropriate for everyone. It may not be recommended if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, certain heart conditions, a history of psychosis, an active substance use disorder, or are pregnant. A thorough screening helps determine whether it is safe for you.
What to expect during treatment
Infusions take place in a calm, monitored setting. Your vital signs are watched throughout. Many people feel relaxed, slightly detached or dreamlike during the infusion. These effects fade soon after it ends. Other possible side effects include nausea, dizziness and a temporary rise in blood pressure.
For depression, treatment often begins with a series of infusions over a few weeks, followed by occasional maintenance sessions if they help. Pain protocols vary. You will need someone to drive you home, and you should not drive until the next day.
Getting started at Rune Vitality
Ketamine infusion therapy at Rune Vitality is provided in person at our San Marcos office. Every patient starts with a free consultation to review your history and decide together whether ketamine is a safe, appropriate option.
Request your free consultation or text us at (760) 539-9332.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. If you are in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.