Ketamine Nasal Spray
Ketamine nasal spray, also called intranasal ketamine, is one method of administering ketamine therapy for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression. If traditional antidepressants have not provided sufficient improvement, ketamine nasal spray may be one option to consider.
What Is Ketamine Nasal Spray Used For?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) is most commonly used in the treatment of:
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts in certain clinical situations
Prescription Management
It is typically prescribed alongside an oral antidepressant and incorporated into a broader psychiatric treatment plan. Candidacy depends on diagnosis, medical history, and prior treatment response.
How Ketamine Nasal Spray Works
Ketamine nasal spray may contain esketamine, a derivative of ketamine that acts on NMDA receptors in the brain. By influencing glutamate signaling, it may help restore synaptic connections involved in mood regulation.
Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin or norepinephrine, ketamine works through a different neurochemical pathway. This difference may explain why some patients experience symptom changes more rapidly.
(In this delivery format, the medication is administered intranasally.)
How Long Does Ketamine Nasal Spray Take to Work?
The response time varies.
Some individuals report noticeable improvement within hours or days of early treatments. Others require several sessions before changes become clear. As with all psychiatric treatments, effectiveness is evaluated over time rather than after a single dose.
How Long Do the Effects Last?
The perceptual effects experienced during intranasal ketamine treatment generally last a few hours. However, mood-related benefits may extend beyond the day of dosing and can build gradually with repeated sessions.
Treatment frequency is adjusted based on symptom stability and clinical progress.
What Does Ketamine Nasal Spray Feel Like?
Experiences differ from person to person. Some patients describe:
- A temporary sense of detachment
- Changes in perception of time
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Lightheadedness
- Emotional shifts
These effects are typically temporary. Not every patient experiences noticeable perceptual changes.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Intranasal ketamine therapy may be appropriate for individuals who:
- Have not responded adequately to multiple antidepressants
- Have persistent depressive symptoms
- Are seeking an alternative delivery method of ketamine therapy
A comprehensive psychiatric assessment determines whether this option is appropriate.
Potential Benefits
Patients receiving ketamine nasal spray may experience:
- Reduction in depressive symptoms
- Improvement in mood stability
- Increased daily functioning
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects of ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) may include:
- Dissociation
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sedation
- Increased blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Nasal irritation
Less commonly, individuals may experience changes in heart rate, confusion, or mood shifts. Any concerning symptoms should be discussed with your provider.
Risks & Considerations
Ketamine has potential risks if misused, including psychological dependence or cognitive effects. It may not be appropriate for individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions, a history of specific neurological disorders, or certain substance use histories.
Your provider will review your medical history carefully before recommending treatment.
If you have questions, feel free to reach out
Considering Ketamine Nasal Spray?
Ketamine nasal spray (intranasal ketamine) is one way ketamine therapy can be delivered. The most appropriate format depends on your diagnosis, prior treatment history, and clinical goals.
If you are exploring ketamine therapy, our team can help determine whether intranasal ketamine or another delivery method is the best fit.