What is Ketamine? Learn about its uses, dosage forms, side effects, cost, and what patients need to know about Ketamine treatment in 2026.
Ketamine is a medication that has been used safely in hospitals and operating rooms for over 50 years. In recent years, it has gained significant attention for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects, making it a game-changer for people with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Ketamine in 2026 — what it is, what it's used for, how it's taken, who should avoid it, and how much it costs.
Ketamine (brand name Ketalar) is a dissociative anesthetic and NMDA receptor antagonist. It was first approved by the FDA in 1970 for use as a general anesthetic. It is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance by the DEA, meaning it has accepted medical uses but also some potential for dependence.
Key facts about Ketamine:
A related medication called Esketamine (brand name Spravato) is a nasal spray that contains the S-enantiomer of Ketamine. It was FDA-approved in 2019 specifically for treatment-resistant depression and, more recently, for major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation.
Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic:
Ketamine's most notable growth has been in off-label applications, prescribed legally by physicians based on clinical evidence:
For more on how Ketamine produces these effects, see our article on how Ketamine works.
Ketamine is available in several forms, depending on the use:
The most common clinical form. Available in 10 mg/mL, 50 mg/mL, and 100 mg/mL concentrations. For depression, IV infusions are typically given at 0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes. For anesthesia, higher doses are used (1–4.5 mg/kg IV or 6.5–13 mg/kg IM).
Prepared by compounding pharmacies for at-home use under a prescriber's guidance. Typical doses range from 0.5–1.5 mg/kg. These dissolve in the mouth over 15–20 minutes.
Placed under the tongue for absorption. Similar dosing to lozenges.
A compounded (not FDA-approved) nasal spray form. Not to be confused with Spravato, which is a separate FDA-approved product.
FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. Self-administered under supervision at a certified healthcare setting. Doses are 56 mg or 84 mg per session, with a required 2-hour monitoring period.
Ketamine is not appropriate for everyone. It is contraindicated in:
Use with caution in patients with a history of substance abuse, liver problems, coronary artery disease, or cerebrovascular disease. Ketamine crosses the placenta and is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed.
Always give your provider a complete list of your medications, as Ketamine interacts with several drugs including benzodiazepines, opioids, MAO inhibitors, and other CNS depressants. Read more in our Ketamine drug interactions guide.
Ketamine costs vary widely depending on the form and setting:
Here's the tricky part: off-label Ketamine infusions for depression are generally not covered by insurance. Spravato, however, is covered by most major insurers (BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem) with prior authorization. You'll typically need to have tried at least two other antidepressants first.
Compounded Ketamine from telehealth services is almost never covered by insurance. Medicare covers Spravato but does not typically cover IV Ketamine infusions for mental health.
For money-saving strategies, see our guide on how to save money on Ketamine.
Ketamine has evolved from a hospital anesthetic into one of the most promising treatments for depression, chronic pain, and other conditions that haven't responded to conventional therapies. While it requires more planning than a typical prescription — finding the right provider, choosing a treatment setting, navigating costs — the results can be life-changing for the right patient.
If you're considering Ketamine treatment, start by talking to your doctor or psychiatrist. You can also find a Ketamine provider near you using our guide to finding a Ketamine doctor. To learn about potential side effects before starting treatment, read our Ketamine side effects guide.
Looking for Ketamine near you? Search Medfinder to check pharmacy availability in your area.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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