Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Medically supervised ketamine treatment for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain. The only widely available legal psychedelic-assisted therapy. Produces rapid antidepressant effects within hours to days, compared to weeks for traditional medications.
How Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Works
Ketamine blocks NMDA glutamate receptors, triggering a rapid cascade of synaptic plasticity. This increases BDNF, activates mTOR, and stimulates synaptogenesis in the prefrontal cortex — essentially creating new neural connections that counteract depression-related brain atrophy.
📊 Evidence by Outcome
Rapid antidepressant effect within 24-72 hours. 70% response rate in treatment-resistant depression. FDA-approved (Spravato/esketamine).
40 studies • Consistency: High • Effect: Large
Uniquely rapid reduction in suicidal thoughts — within hours. Only approved treatment specifically for acute suicidal ideation.
15 studies • Consistency: High • Effect: Large
Significant PTSD symptom improvement when combined with psychotherapy. Effects may require maintenance sessions.
10 studies • Consistency: Moderate • Effect: Moderate
Key Research
Peer-Reviewed Evidence • 1 Citations
A randomized trial of an N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist in treatment-resistant major depression
Zarate CA et al.•Archives of General Psychiatry•2006•PMID: 16894061
Key Finding: Single IV ketamine infusion produced rapid antidepressant effects within 2 hours, with 71% response rate at 24 hours. Effects lasted up to 1 week.
View on PubMedCitations sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and peer-reviewed journals. Study findings are summarized for accessibility. Always consult the original publication for full methodology and results.
Side Effects & Safety
📋 Protocol Snapshot
Protocols are for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment protocol.
Cost Guide
AED 1,500-4,000 per session
Limited UAE availability. Costs may vary for international sourcing.
Related Treatments
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Kamura Scores reflect a combination of research evidence, community data, and other factors — they are not clinical recommendations. Research citations are provided for reference; always consult the original publications for complete study details. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Individual results may vary.