Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic suicidality continue to impact the well-being and functioning of many individuals. While standard treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy help a significant number of people, a subset of individuals experience treatment-resistant depression (TRD), where multiple medications have failed to bring relief.

For such cases, a newer option known as ketamine-assisted therapy is emerging as a safe and promising intervention, when used under medical supervision.

🧠 What is Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine, originally developed as an anaesthetic agent, has been repurposed at lower doses for psychiatric indications due to its effects on the brain’s glutamatergic system. Unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks to act on serotonin pathways, ketamine acts rapidly on NMDA receptors, facilitating changes in neural plasticity and mood regulation.

Research has shown that carefully monitored administration of ketamine can lead to:

• Rapid relief from depressive symptoms

• Reduction in suicidal thoughts

• Better engagement in ongoing psychotherapy

🧪 Forms of Administration

Ketamine can be administered through different routes:

• Intravenous (IV) infusion

• Intramuscular (IM) injection

• Oral lozenges (under clinical guidance)

• Nasal sprays (in some formulations like esketamine)

Each route has its indications, monitoring requirements, and safety considerations. Therapy is generally provided in a structured setting by trained professionals.

🔍 Who May Benefit?

Ketamine-assisted therapy may be considered for:

• Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)

• PTSD and trauma-related conditions

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Chronic anxiety and existential distress

• Certain pain disorders, under multidisciplinary care

It is not a first-line treatment, and suitability is assessed after a detailed clinical evaluation.

⚖️ Safety and Ethical Considerations

• Ketamine therapy must be delivered by qualified medical professionals.

• Proper informed consent, baseline screening, and post-session monitoring are essential.

• It is not the same as recreational ketamine use, and misuse is strongly discouraged.

• Ethical use includes adherence to clinical guidelines, documentation, and follow-up.

💸 Accessibility and Cost

In India, the cost of ketamine-assisted therapy varies depending on the method, clinical setting, and whether psychotherapy is included.

• IV/IM sessions in hospitals: Approx. ₹2,000–₹8,000 per session

• Oral/IM outpatient low-dose sessions: Available at more affordable rates in some clinics

• Add-on psychotherapy: Optional, with charges varying from ₹1,000 onwards

Several mental health professionals in India are working to make this therapy accessible at lower costs, particularly for those who cannot afford higher-end interventions.

🙋 Important Note

While ketamine therapy is promising, it is not a universal solution. It is part of a broader, individualized treatment plan. Anyone considering this option should consult a qualified psychiatrist or mental health professional.

📘 Final Thoughts

As India continues to expand its mental health services, ketamine-assisted therapy represents a meaningful addition to the options available for individuals living with difficult-to-treat psychiatric conditions.

Increased awareness, ethical practice, and affordability can ensure that such innovative therapies reach those who need them the most — safely and responsibly.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only. Ketamine therapy must be administered by trained medical professionals under clinical supervision. Outcomes vary based on individual diagnosis and suitability.

Written by:
Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, MBBS, MD (Psychiatry)
Consultant Psychiatrist
Apollo Clinic, Velachery, Chennai
📧 Email: srinivasaiims@gmail.com
📱 Phone: +91 85951 55808
🌐 Website: www.srinivasaiims.com

📞 Ready to Take the First Step Toward Recovery?

If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression or trauma-related symptoms and are exploring ketamine-assisted therapy as an option, feel free to reach out for a confidential consultation.
Let’s explore safe, science-backed solutions — together.