When You’ve Tried Everything, This Breakthrough Could Be the Answer
Depression doesn’t always respond to pills. In fact, for about 1 in 3 people, traditional antidepressants don’t work at all. The symptoms stay. The energy stays low. The dark thoughts never go away.
That’s why more and more people in places like Phoenix, Gilbert, and Glendale are turning to ketamine IV infusion therapy—a fast-acting, research-backed treatment that’s changing lives.
Unlike standard medications, ketamine can start working in hours, not weeks. It’s offered under strict medical supervision and often helps even when nothing else has.
“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.”
— Glenn Close
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how ketamine IV infusion works, who it’s for, how it compares to other treatments, and what to expect when starting your journey.
What Is Ketamine IV Infusion?
Ketamine IV infusion is a therapy that delivers low doses of ketamine through an IV drip, directly into your bloodstream. This treatment is designed to help people with major depressive disorder, especially those who have not improved with antidepressants or therapy.
During the treatment, you sit comfortably while a small IV administers ketamine over about 40 to 60 minutes. You’re monitored the entire time to ensure safety.
Ketamine works on glutamate, a chemical in your brain that helps with learning, memory, and mood. By improving glutamate function, ketamine helps create new connections between brain cells and can reduce symptoms of depression fast.
What Makes Ketamine IV Different from Other Treatments?
Most antidepressants focus on serotonin or norepinephrine and take 6 to 8 weeks to kick in. Ketamine is different.
Here’s why IV ketamine stands out:
- Fast-acting: Some people feel better within hours
- Bypasses traditional pathways: Targets brain circuits in a new way
- Proven to reduce suicidal thoughts quickly
- Often effective when nothing else has worked
Studies show that up to 70% of patients with treatment-resistant depression experience relief after a series of ketamine infusions.
Who Can Benefit from Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
Ketamine IV therapy is usually recommended for people who:
- Have major depressive disorder
- Tried at least two antidepressants without success
- Experience persistent or severe symptoms
- Struggle with suicidal thoughts
- Are looking for faster results than traditional medications offer
It’s also being studied for conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and bipolar depression. However, it’s not right for everyone. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure, psychosis, or substance abuse history should speak with their provider first.
At Bella Vida TMS, we carefully screen every patient to make sure ketamine is a safe, appropriate fit.
What to Expect During a Ketamine Infusion
The process is simple and supportive:
- Consultation – A provider reviews your health history and symptoms
- Preparation – You’ll receive instructions before your first session
- Infusion – You’ll sit in a calm setting as the IV drip begins
- Monitoring – Our team watches your vitals and comfort during the 40–60 minute session
- Recovery – You’ll relax afterward as the effects wear off (you can’t drive the same day)
- Follow-up – We’ll discuss how you’re feeling and adjust the care plan if needed
Most patients begin with 6 infusions over 2 to 3 weeks, then transition to maintenance treatments as needed.
What Does It Feel Like?
Everyone responds a little differently. Many people feel relaxed, floaty, or disconnected from their body—this is called dissociation, and it usually fades quickly after the session.
Some describe it as emotional clarity or a “reset” of their mind. Others just feel lighter, calmer, or more hopeful.
Side effects may include:
- Mild nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Temporary increase in blood pressure
- Dissociation (brief and manageable)
You are never alone during treatment. Our medical team is there the entire time to keep you safe and supported.
How Much Does It Cost?
Ketamine IV infusion for depression is currently considered off-label, meaning it’s not FDA-approved for depression yet—even though research strongly supports its use.
As a result:
- Most insurance plans do not cover IV infusions
- The cost can range from $400 to $600 per session
- Some clinics offer package pricing or financing plans
If you’re looking for a covered option, consider Spravato®, an FDA-approved ketamine nasal spray that Bella Vida TMS offers and bills to insurance.
What About TMS?
If you’re looking for a non-medication option, you might want to consider Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
TMS is:
- FDA-approved
- Covered by most insurance
- Drug-free and non-invasive
- Done in-office with no downtime
- A great alternative for people who don’t want to try ketamine
We often see patients improve with either treatment—or a combination of both—depending on their symptoms and needs.
Is Ketamine Infusion Safe?
Yes, when delivered in a controlled medical setting like Bella Vida TMS, ketamine is very safe. We follow strict guidelines and continuously monitor your heart rate, oxygen levels, and overall comfort.
You should never try ketamine without medical supervision. Recreational use is dangerous, illegal, and completely different from the therapeutic dosing used in depression care.
Where Can I Get Ketamine Infusions in Arizona?
If you live in Phoenix, Gilbert, Glendale, or nearby areas, Bella Vida TMS offers consultation and treatment plans for ketamine-based care. While we currently provide Spravato® nasal spray and TMS therapy, we also educate patients about the risks and benefits of IV infusions and can refer you to trusted clinics when needed.
Let’s Find the Right Treatment—Together
If you’re feeling stuck, hopeless, or like nothing works, please know this:
You are not out of options. You are not broken. And you are not alone.
Ketamine IV infusion for depression is giving hope to people who’ve suffered for years. And at Bella Vida TMS, we’re here to guide you—whether that’s through Spravato®, TMS, or a customized plan that fits your needs and goals.
References
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Depression Overview
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
Yale School of Medicine – Ketamine for Depression
https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/ketamine-offers-hope-for-people-with-severe-depression/
Harvard Health Publishing – Ketamine for major depression: New tool, new questions
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ketamine-for-major-depression-new-tool-new-questions-2019052216673
National Library of Medicine (PubMed) – Rapid antidepressant effects of intravenous ketamine in treatment-resistant depression
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21536974/
American Journal of Psychiatry – Efficacy of Ketamine in Major Depression: Meta-Analysis and Further Evidence
https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2014.14030384
Mayo Clinic – Ketamine infusion therapy for depression: Know the risks and benefits
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ketamine-infusion/about/pac-20417354
Spravato® (Esketamine) Official Site – Indications and Usage
https://www.spravato.com
Stanford Medicine – Ketamine Treatment for Depression
https://med.stanford.edu/psychiatry/patient_care/ketamine.html
