Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression

Why ketamine is used here

Most ketamine trials enrolled people with treatment-resistant depression, and the response rates in that population (50 to 70 percent for an initial series) are what made ketamine notable. It works through a different mechanism than antidepressants, so prior medication failures do not predict ketamine failure. See the coverage hub, the ketamine therapy hub, and the coverage checker.

When clinicians choose ketamine over Spravato

When a patient does not meet Spravato's insurance criteria, cannot take an oral antidepressant, has been denied, or when a ketamine clinic is nearer or cheaper for them. Some clinicians also prefer IV dosing for its adjustability.

What treatment looks like

Six infusions over two to three weeks, then boosters at increasing intervals. A rating scale before and after the series tells you and the clinic whether to continue.

Coverage and cost

Not covered by insurance. Cash prices run $350 to $850 per infusion. See ketamine therapy cost and compare with Spravato for TRD.