Ketamine works differently than traditional antidepressants. It is believed to have a rapid antidepressant effect, often working within hours to days after administration, compared to the weeks or months it may take for traditional antidepressants to show results.

How Does Ketamine Work?

By blocking NMDA receptors, ketamine affects glutamate transmission. This modulation of glutamate is thought to trigger a cascade of molecular and cellular changes that contribute to its antidepressant effects which have also been found to settle symptoms of anxiety. Ketamine may promote synaptic plasticity, which refers to the ability of synapses (connections between neurons) to strengthen or weaken over time. This synaptic plasticity is believed to be crucial for learning and memory processes, and disruptions in synaptic plasticity have been implicated in mood disorders including anxiety. Ketamine’s impact on synaptic plasticity may play a role in its antidepressant effects and soothing impact on anxiety symptoms.

Ketamine Treats Symptoms of Anxiety Quickly

One notable characteristic of ketamine is its rapid onset of action compared to traditional antidepressants. While conventional antidepressants may take weeks to months to produce noticeable effects, ketamine can sometimes lead to improvements within hours to days. This rapid onset has made ketamine a subject of interest for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments for anxiety.