Ketamine vs Traditional Antidepressants: A Comprehensive Guide

Ketamine vs Traditional Antidepressants: A Comprehensive Guide

The Albany Clinic • December 17, 2023

Navigating the landscape of mental health treatment, especially for conditions like depression and PTSD, often involves exploring various therapeutic options. For many years, traditional antidepressants have been a primary choice. However, recent advancements have introduced a new option: Ketamine. This guide delves into the nuances of Ketamine, particularly in its IV form, as compared to traditional antidepressants, offering insights for those still seeking effective treatment.


The Albany Clinic provides a balanced perspective, shedding light on the effectiveness, potential benefits, and considerations of each treatment modality. This comparison is important for patients and healthcare providers alike as they make informed decisions about mental health care. Understanding these options is key in the journey toward healing and stability for those affected by these challenging mental health conditions.

Understanding Their Mechanisms

Traditional Antidepressants: These medications have been a cornerstone in managing depression. They function as reuptake inhibitors, a process involving neurotransmitters, the brain's chemical messengers. After these neurotransmitters have facilitated communication between nerve cells, they are typically reabsorbed. Antidepressants inhibit this reabsorption, allowing neurotransmitters to remain active longer, thereby enhancing communication and emotional regulation. This mechanism aims to create a more balanced chemical environment in the brain. By keeping more neurotransmitters in the space between the nerve cells, they enhance communication and improve mood and emotion regulation​. It's a process that requires patience, as the full benefits of these medications often take weeks to manifest.


Ketamine: IV Ketamine represents a different approach. It influences the brain's glutamate system, which is vital for mood regulation. Ketamine blocks specific receptors, which leads to an increase in glutamate activity. This triggers the formation of new neural connections, fostering the development of healthier brain pathways. It's akin to supporting the brain in building new and more effective communication routes. Ketamine also potentially repairs damage inflicted by stress hormones on the brain's proteins.

Speed and Duration of Effects

One of the standout features of Ketamine when compared to traditional antidepressants is its rapid onset of action. A 2022 study  published in the National Library of Medicine demonstrated that a single subanesthetic-dose IV ketamine infusion can rapidly improve depressive symptoms within just one day, with antidepressant effects lasting from three days up to seven days. This swift response is particularly vital for individuals with severe depression or suicidal ideation, where time is often a critical factor. In such scenarios, the ability of Ketamine to provide almost immediate relief can be a significant advantage, offering a much-needed reprieve in acute phases of depression.


Traditional antidepressants, in contrast, can often take several weeks or even months to exhibit their full therapeutic effect. This slower onset of action could pose a limitation for patients requiring immediate relief. The gradual improvement seen with these antidepressants may contribute to more sustained long-term benefits, but they may not be as suitable for patients in need of urgent care. This difference in the speed of response between Ketamine and traditional antidepressants underscores the importance of tailoring treatment to the individual needs of each patient, particularly in emergency mental health situations.

Efficacy in Treatment-Resistant Cases

The role of Ketamine in treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is particularly noteworthy. TRD, defined as depression that does not respond adequately to at least two different antidepressants, presents a significant challenge in mental health care. In these instances, Ketamine has emerged as a beacon of hope. The S-enantiomer of ketamine, known as esketamine, has been studied extensively for its potent antagonistic effects at the NMDA receptor, a key component in its antidepressant properties. This has led to esketamine's exploration as a viable treatment option for TRD, providing relief for those who have found traditional antidepressants ineffective.


Numerous studies, including those cited on platforms like the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), have highlighted the rapid and robust antidepressant effects of ketamine in individuals with TRD. These studies indicate that ketamine can produce significant improvement in depressive symptoms, often within 24 hours of administration, a remarkable feat considering the typically gradual onset of traditional antidepressants. This rapid action can be particularly beneficial in acute cases, offering a much-needed alternative for individuals struggling with severe symptoms. Additionally, ongoing research suggests that repeated treatments with ketamine might lead to sustained improvements, potentially transforming the treatment landscape for TRD.

Comparing Side Effects and Safety Profiles

While both Ketamine and traditional antidepressants have their side effect profiles, they differ significantly in nature and duration. Ketamine's side effects are generally transient and occur during or immediately after infusion. These can include changes in blood pressure, dissociation, and nausea but typically resolve quickly without long-term consequences. Traditional antidepressants, on the other hand, can have more persistent side effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and emotional blunting. These side effects can sometimes persist for the duration of the treatment and may influence a patient's willingness to continue the therapy.

A Balanced Perspective

The choice between Ketamine and traditional antidepressants isn't straightforward. It involves considering various factors like the severity of symptoms, previous treatment history, and personal health profile. While Ketamine offers a rapid and effective alternative, especially for treatment-resistant cases, it's essential to have a thorough discussion with healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable treatment plan. Beyond medication, therapy plays an effective role in treating mental health disorders. Integrating therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with medication can provide a more holistic approach to treatment. This combination can address the underlying causes of mental health issues while managing symptoms.

Next Steps

Exploring all treatment options is key for those struggling with depression or PTSD. Ketamine offers a swift alternative for some, presenting a potential solution for those who have not found relief with other methods. On the other hand, traditional antidepressants provide a well-established route for others, offering a time-tested approach with a substantial track record. It's essential to understand that each individual's journey is unique, and what works for one person may not be as effective for another. Consulting with a mental health professional is an important first step in this deeply personal process. Their expertise can help tailor a treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and circumstances.


The Albany Clinic in Carbondale Illinois invites you to
reach out for expert guidance and support on your journey towards healing and stability, ensuring that you are not alone in this process and that there is a team ready to assist you in navigating these complex decisions.

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Phone:   (888) 804-4330

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By Kimberly Mercille September 4, 2025
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Current Treatments and Their Limitations The most common treatments for PTSD include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) , and antidepressant medications . For many people, these treatments can be helpful. However, they also come with challenges: Medications may take weeks to work and don’t help everyone. Therapy can take months or years to create lasting change. Therapies can be difficult to engage with, as they involve discussing the trauma, which can be distressing or may cause someone to shut down emotionally. Some individuals continue to experience severe symptoms despite treatment. This is where ketamine therapy offers a new avenue of hope. How Ketamine May Help PTSD Ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants. Instead of gradually altering brain chemistry, ketamine acts quickly on key brain circuits involved in mood and fear. Rebalancing brain activity : Ketamine boosts activity in the prefrontal cortex , the part of the brain that helps regulate emotions. It also decreases activity in the amygdala , the brain’s fear center, helping reduce anxiety and hypervigilance. Promoting neuroplasticity : Ketamine encourages new connections between brain areas, helping “rewire” pathways associated with PTSD symptoms. Supporting fear extinction : Ketamine supports fear extinction, the process by which the brain ‘unlearns’ fearful responses to things it expects to be threatening. This is especially important in PTSD, where people may react to safe situations or cues as if they were actual threats. Benefits of Ketamine for PTSD Research continues to grow, but studies and clinical experience have shown several promising benefits: Rapid relief : Many patients notice improvements within hours to days, rather than weeks. This can be especially important during a mental health crisis or for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Effective when other treatments have failed : Ketamine can offer relief even for people who haven’t responded to medications or therapy. Sustained improvement : With a series of treatments, many patients experience lasting relief from PTSD symptoms. Increases the benefits of other therapies : Ketamine may speed up the outcomes of other trauma-based therapies, such as prolonged exposure therapy . In a 2021 study , people with severe PTSD received either ketamine or a comparison drug over two weeks. Those given ketamine showed much faster and greater improvement in PTSD and depression symptoms. About 67% had significantly improved symptoms , with the biggest differences in intrusive memories, avoidance, and negative thoughts and mood. The treatment was also well-tolerated with few adverse effects. Ketamine Treatment for PTSD at the Albany Clinic At the Albany Clinic in Carbondale, Illinois, we are dedicated to providing safe, effective ketamine therapy for people with PTSD and other psychiatric disorders. We administer ketamine intravenously to support a rapid reduction in symptoms. Here’s what you can expect: A thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation before treatment begins Comfortable, private treatment rooms Careful monitoring by experienced medical professionals throughout each session A personalized treatment plan designed around your needs During your treatment, you’ll have a small plastic catheter inserted into a vein in your arm, which will deliver ketamine straight into your bloodstream. You may experience mild side effects, such as dizziness and dissociation , which can make you feel disconnected from your body and the world around you. These typically wear off after the session is finished. The infusion takes 45 minutes to one hour , and you’ll be closely monitored by staff during the infusion and afterwards to ensure your safety. We’ll provide you with guidance on aftercare once you’re done and how to make the most of your new headspace. Most people with PTSD require multiple infusions to experience sustained, meaningful changes. However, the treatment plan will be tailored according to your unique needs. Get in Touch Today If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD and current treatments haven’t provided the relief you need, ketamine therapy may be an option worth exploring. At the Albany Clinic, we are here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process. Get in touch to find out more.
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By Kimberly Mercille July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy