Ketamine Therapy in Denver
Ketamine therapy at Denver TMS Therapy is prescribed and supervised by a psychiatrist for adults with depression that has not responded to standard treatment. Ketamine is not FDA-approved for psychiatric conditions and is used off-label; sessions take place in our clinic with monitoring throughout.
What ketamine is
Ketamine is an anesthetic medication that has been studied for its effects on depression at doses far lower than those used in surgery. It works on the glutamate system, which is one reason it is considered for people who have not improved on conventional antidepressants.
Off-label, explained
"Off-label" means a medication is prescribed for a use the FDA has not specifically approved. Off-label prescribing is legal and common, but it means insurance rarely covers ketamine for depression, and it means the decision should be made with a physician who knows your full history. We will discuss the evidence, the limits of the evidence, and the costs plainly.
What sessions involve
Each session is scheduled in a private room, with vital signs monitored and staff present. You will need a ride home. The number and spacing of sessions is individualized.
Ketamine or SPRAVATO®?
SPRAVATO® is an FDA-approved form of esketamine that many insurance plans cover; ketamine therapy is off-label and usually self-pay. Your psychiatrist will help you compare the two for your situation.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to the nearest emergency room.