How Ketamine IV Therapy Is Different from Traditional Antidepressants

There is a growing interest in alternative treatments for depression, particularly among patients whose symptoms do not resolve sufficiently with the use of traditional oral antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Of the alternatives, ketamine intravenous (IV) therapy is becoming a significant new option for people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and those in need of immediate relief. Here we explore how ketamine infusion compares to the more common depression medication.

Intravenous Ketamine vs Antidepressants: Key Differences

The Science Behind the Relief: How Ketamine and Antidepressants Work

The way a treatment interacts with the brain is fundamental to how effective it will be. Ketamine IV therapy and traditional antidepressants operate through different neurological pathways, thus the treatments’ respective outcomes.

Dr. Pervez Qureshi, leader of the DripGym team, explains: “For depression, common medications like SSRIs work by slowly increasing the availability of the neurotransmitter serotonin to help regulate mood over several weeks or months. Ketamine, in contrast, works on a completely different system involving the neurotransmitter glutamate, rapidly promoting new connections between brain cells.

“While SSRIs gradually adjust the existing chemical messaging, ketamine acts more quickly to ‘rewire’ the brain, offering a different pathway to recovery, particularly for people with treatment-resistant depression.”

This rewiring ability of the brain is known as neuroplasticity, which ketamine promotes by acting on the glutamate system. Ketamine works by primarily blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain, leading to a rapid surge in glutamate signaling. 

Speed of Action & Effect Duration

One of the most striking differences between ketamine IV therapy and traditional antidepressants is the speed at which patients may experience relief from depression. Dr. Qureshi highlights that traditional antidepressants adjust existing brain chemistry gradually while ketamine, through its glutamate effect, is able to quickly provide relief.

Within hours to days, ketamine can bring significant relief that may last days to weeks; in contrast, daily doses of SSRIs and SNRIs often take four to eight weeks for meaningful improvements to become noticeable. For sustained effects, ketamine IV therapy typically involves a series of initial treatments followed by maintenance infusions.

“We frequently observe a positive shift after the very first ketamine infusion, with many patients reporting a significant lifting of symptoms within 24 to 72 hours,” says Dr. Qureshi. “While a series of treatments is often necessary for a lasting response, this rapid onset can be life-changing for individuals struggling with severe or treatment-resistant depression.”      

In-Clinic Oversight vs Self-Administration

At DripGym, ketamine IV therapy involves a highly structured and medically supervised on-site process. Throughout the treatment, licensed clinicians closely monitor patients’ vital signs and are ready to promptly address any concerns. After the infusion, patients enter a recovery period, during which they receive post-treatment guidance.

Traditional antidepressants, meanwhile, are normally self-administered as part of a consistent dosing regimen. The routine does not require real-time medical monitoring, although patients ideally have regular check-ins with their healthcare providers.

Treating Depression: Common Side Effects

During a ketamine IV infusion for depression, patients may experience transient dissociative effects, which are a normal part of the treatment. Other potential side effects include temporary changes in blood pressure and heart rate, as well as nausea.

As for traditional antidepressants, common issues include gastrointestinal upset, sleep disturbances, weight gain, and sexual side effects. While generally mild to moderate, these reactions are often managed outpatient and can sometimes lead to people not pushing through with their treatment.

Is Ketamine IV Therapy Right for You?

Determining suitability for ketamine IV therapy calls for a thorough medical assessment. It is not a one-size-fits-all solution but a specialized treatment for specific patient profiles.

Ketamine IV therapy may be considered for patients with TRD, severe symptoms, or those needing fast relief. However, specific contraindications and precautions exist, such as uncontrolled hypertension or certain medical histories. A comprehensive provider assessment is required to ensure patient safety and optimize treatment outcomes.

“We carefully evaluate each individual’s unique situation,” shares Dr. Qureshi, adding that other treatments like psychotherapy also help.

In terms of investment and commitment, it’s worth noting that ketamine IV therapy follows a series-based model, typically involving multiple in-clinic sessions initially plus maintenance. Meanwhile insurance considerations can vary, so it is important to be ready for any out-of-pocket expenses.

The landscape of depression treatment continues to evolve, offering new hope for those who haven't found relief through conventional methods. Ketamine IV therapy, for instance, differs fundamentally from traditional antidepressants in its mechanism, speed, and delivery. Understanding these differences will allow patients to make informed choices about their mental health journey.

Book a Consultation at DripGym

If you are exploring new pathways to mental wellness and believe ketamine IV therapy might be a suitable option, a professional evaluation is the first step. Book a consultation with DripGym to see if you can be a candidate for our medically monitored program in New York City and Long Island.

FAQs

What is the main difference in how ketamine IV therapy and traditional antidepressants work?

Ketamine IV therapy primarily modulates glutamate receptors, promoting rapid neuroplasticity and new brain connections. Traditional antidepressants focus on increasing serotonin and/or norepinephrine levels, requiring gradual adaptation.

How quickly does ketamine IV therapy show effects compared to oral antidepressants?

Ketamine IV therapy can often provide significant relief within hours to days. Traditional oral antidepressants typically require four to eight weeks for patients to experience noticeable improvements in their symptoms.

Is ketamine IV therapy administered in a clinic?

Yes, ketamine IV therapy is administered in a medically supervised clinical setting such as DripGym. This ensures continuous monitoring of vital signs and immediate support from licensed clinicians throughout the infusion and recovery period.

Who is a good candidate for ketamine IV therapy?

Ketamine IV therapy is often considered for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, severe symptoms, or those needing faster relief from their condition. A thorough medical screening by a healthcare provider is required to determine eligibility.