Depression is one of the most common and disabling mental health conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. For those who struggle with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), traditional medications and therapy may not offer the relief they need. At Dr. Sambunaris & Associates in Alpharetta, GA, we are proud to offer a cutting-edge solution: ketamine treatment for depression.
Ketamine, once known primarily as an anesthetic, is emerging as a powerful new tool in the fight against chronic depression. Administered in a clinical setting and under the care of highly trained professionals, ketamine therapy has helped patients regain hope when other options have failed.
What is Ketamine Treatment?
Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that has been used safely for decades. In recent years, researchers have discovered that ketamine—administered at low, controlled doses—can rapidly improve symptoms of depression, often within hours or days. This makes it especially valuable for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, suicidal ideation, or severe mood disorders.
At Dr. Sambunaris & Associates, ketamine therapy is administered via IV infusion in a calming, clinical environment. Each session is tailored to your individual needs and overseen by our expert clinical team, with close monitoring to ensure your safety and comfort.
How Does Ketamine Work for Depression?
Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to take effect and primarily target serotonin or dopamine pathways, ketamine acts on a different brain chemical called glutamate. This action helps rewire and strengthen neural connections in areas of the brain responsible for mood and emotion—offering rapid relief and a renewed sense of clarity and emotional balance.
Q&A: Understanding Ketamine Treatment for Depression
Q: Who is a candidate for ketamine treatment?
A: Ketamine therapy is most often recommended for patients with treatment-resistant depression, meaning they have tried at least two different antidepressants without significant relief. It may also benefit those with bipolar depression, PTSD, and acute suicidal thoughts.
Q: Is ketamine safe?
A: Yes. When administered by trained professionals in a medical setting like Dr. Sambunaris & Associates, ketamine is safe and well-tolerated. Side effects are typically mild and may include dizziness, nausea, or dissociation during the infusion, which usually resolve shortly after the session.
Q: How quickly will I feel better?
A: Many patients report feeling better within 24–72 hours after their first infusion. Improvements often include reduced suicidal thoughts, increased motivation, and an overall uplift in mood.
Q: How many treatments are needed?
A: A standard course of treatment typically involves 6 infusions over 2–3 weeks, followed by maintenance infusions as needed. Our team will develop a customized treatment plan based on your individual progress and response.
Q: Will ketamine replace my current medication or therapy?
A: Ketamine is often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment. It may allow some patients to reduce their reliance on antidepressants over time, but we encourage a comprehensive care plan that includes therapy and psychiatric support.
Q: What should I expect during the treatment session?
A: Each ketamine infusion lasts about 40–60 minutes. You’ll be seated comfortably in a quiet room, and our staff will monitor your vital signs throughout the session. Most patients describe a dream-like or meditative experience during the infusion.
Hope Starts Here
Depression doesn’t define you—and it doesn’t have to control your life. If you or someone you love is struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, ketamine therapy may offer a new path forward. At Dr. Sambunaris & Associates, we’re committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers you to heal and thrive.
Contact Dr. Sambunaris & Associates today for a confidential consultation.
📞 Phone: (770) 817-9200
📍 Address: 5755 North Point Parkway, Suite 256, Alpharetta, GA 30022
🌐 Website: https://drsambunaris.com