Ketamine Therapy for Depression in Denver

Ketamine is an anesthetic that, at low doses, acts on the brain's glutamate system rather than the serotonin pathways most antidepressants use. Research has examined its effects on depressive symptoms, including in people who have not responded to several medications. The evidence is still developing, which is why this treatment belongs under a physician who will discuss what is known and what is not.

Adults with major depressive disorder who have tried standard treatments without adequate relief. Certain conditions — including uncontrolled blood pressure, some heart conditions, active substance use disorder, and a history of psychosis — require careful review and may rule ketamine out. Your psychiatrist screens for these at the evaluation.

• A private treatment room, vital-sign monitoring, and staff present throughout.
• A session lasts roughly one to two hours including recovery time.
• You arrange a ride home before each session and avoid driving until the next day.
• The number and spacing of sessions is individualized and reviewed as you go.

Dissociation, dizziness, nausea, and temporary increases in blood pressure are the most common effects during and shortly after a session; they are monitored and generally resolve before you leave.

Because ketamine therapy is off-label, it is usually self-pay. We give you the per-session and full-course cost in writing before you start, and we check whether SPRAVATO® — which insurance often covers — is a covered alternative for you.