Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine is an anesthetic medication that has been studied for use in treatment-resistant depression and certain other psychiatric conditions. Providers here prescribe it as a low-dose oral troche.

This is an off-label use. Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic, not as a psychiatric treatment, and oral troches are prepared by a compounding pharmacy rather than manufactured as an approved product. Your provider will explain what that means before you decide anything.

Who it's considered for. Generally adults whose depression hasn't responded adequately to standard treatments. It is not a first-line option and it is not appropriate for everyone. Ketamine can raise blood pressure and cause dissociation during dosing, and it carries added risk for people with certain cardiac, neurological, psychiatric, or substance use histories.

How it works here. It begins with a full psychiatric evaluation. If your provider thinks it's a reasonable option, they'll go through the evidence, the risks, and the alternatives with you and obtain informed consent before anything is prescribed. Treatment is provided alongside ongoing psychiatric care and monitoring — not as a standalone service. Response varies, and some people don't benefit.

Cost. Insurance coverage for off-label ketamine varies and is often limited. Ask about cost before starting.

Ketamine treatment is not emergency care. If you are in crisis, call or text 988, or go to your nearest emergency department.

​​​​​​​Ask your provider whether ketamine is appropriate for you.