Millions of people rely on traditional antidepressants for relief, but what happens when they stop working—or never worked at all? Ketamine therapy offers a groundbreaking alternative. Here’s how it compares to conventional treatments.
Mechanism of Action
- Traditional Antidepressants: Increase serotonin levels over time
- Ketamine: Targets the glutamate system and promotes rapid synaptic growth
Onset of Relief
- Antidepressants may take 2–6 weeks to show benefits
- Ketamine can reduce symptoms in as little as 1–3 sessions
Efficacy for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Studies show ketamine is highly effective for patients who haven’t responded to traditional options—making it a game-changer in modern psychiatry.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Ketamine Therapy | Traditional Antidepressants |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Relief | Hours to Days | Weeks |
| Works for Resistant Cases | Yes | Often Not |
| Administration Method | IV Infusion | Oral |
| Target Pathway | Glutamate/NMDA | Serotonin/Norepinephrine |
The Bottom Line
If you haven’t found success with antidepressants, ketamine may offer new hope. Contact Dr. Jon Deam to see if it’s right for you.
