How Long Do the Effects of Ketamine Last for Depression and PTSD?

Many people considering ketamine therapy for depression or PTSD wonder: How long do the benefits last? Unlike traditional antidepressants, which require daily use and take weeks to show effects, ketamine works rapidly—but its duration varies from person to person.

While ketamine is not a one-time cure, it offers relief that can last days, weeks, or even months. Understanding what influences the longevity of ketamine’s effects can help patients set realistic expectations and plan for sustained mental health improvements.

One of ketamine’s greatest advantages is its rapid onset of action. Traditional antidepressants can take 4 to 6 weeks to begin working (if they work at all), but many patients feel noticeable improvement within hours or days of a ketamine infusion.

For PTSD, the response time is often similar. Patients frequently report that flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, and emotional reactivity decrease shortly after treatment.

Unlike SSRIs, which increase serotonin levels gradually, ketamine works through the glutamate system, rapidly increasing neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections and pathways. This quickly shifts thought patterns, making relief possible much sooner.

The duration of ketamine’s effects depends on several factors, including the individual’s condition, the severity of symptoms, and whether they undergo a full course of treatment.

Many patients experience cumulative improvements with multiple infusions, meaning that each session builds on the previous one to create longer-lasting symptom relief.

Some people experience longer periods of relief than others. Here’s what influences ketamine’s longevity:

• Underlying Condition: Studies suggest that ketamine’s effects tend to last longer for PTSD than for TRD, though results vary by individual.
• Severity of Symptoms: Those with more severe, long-term depression or trauma may require more frequent maintenance treatments.
• Integration with Therapy: Patients who engage in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) or trauma-focused therapy often experience longer-lasting improvements.
• Lifestyle and Support: Managing stress, staying engaged in therapy, and following healthy lifestyle habits can extend ketamine’s benefits.

For many patients, booster or maintenance infusions are recommended to prolong the benefits of ketamine therapy.

1. Some people find that a single series of infusions is enough to create long-term stability.
2. Others return for periodic booster treatments (every few weeks or months) to maintain their improvements.
3. Ketamine’s effects can extend further when combined with therapy, medication, or other wellness strategies.

At Therapeutic Infusions, we tailor maintenance schedules to each patient’s needs, ensuring long-term relief and lasting success.

Unlike daily antidepressants or years of therapy, ketamine provides fast relief with fewer ongoing commitments.

For people who have tried multiple antidepressants with little success, ketamine offers a powerful alternative that doesn’t require daily dosing.

If you’re struggling with treatment-resistant depression or PTSD, ketamine therapy could offer the relief you’ve been looking for. While the effects aren’t permanent, many patients find significant, lasting improvement—especially with a structured treatment plan.

At Therapeutic Infusions, we provide:

• Personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs
• Expert medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness
• A calming, supportive environment for your treatment sessions

Schedule a consultation today to see if ketamine therapy is right for you.