At HeadWay Clinic, we’re proud to offer innovative, evidence-based treatments like Esketamine (Spravato) and Ketamine therapy, providing hope and relief for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. These groundbreaking therapies, backed by years of clinical research, are transforming lives by addressing symptoms quickly and effectively.

What is Ketamine or Esketamine?

  • Esketamine: A specially formulated version of Ketamine, Esketamine (brand name: Spravato) is an FDA-approved and Health Canada-sanctioned nasal spray used for treatment-resistant depression. Administered in a medical setting under close supervision, it’s designed to provide fast-acting relief, especially for those who haven’t responded to traditional antidepressants.
  • Ketamine: Used for decades as an anesthetic, Ketamine has recently gained recognition as a treatment for mental health conditions, including depression and PTSD. When administered in low doses via oral or intranasal methods, Ketamine can promote rapid symptom reduction and improve overall mental well-being.

How does ketamine work?

Both Esketamine and Ketamine work differently from traditional antidepressants, which target serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine systems. These therapies affect the NMDA receptor in the brain, a key player in regulating mood and cognitive function. By modulating this receptor, they promote neuroplasticity—essentially helping the brain form new connections and heal from long-standing patterns of distress.

Research has shown that this mechanism:

  • Rapidly alleviates symptoms of depression, often within hours or days.
  • Improves mood and emotional resilience.
  • Reduces suicidal ideation, making it a critical option for individuals in crisis.

“Ketamine has been described as one of the most significant breakthroughs in depression treatment in decades.” — National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Conditions Treated With Ketamine or Esketamine

These treatments are particularly effective for:

  • Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD): For individuals who have tried multiple antidepressants without success, Ketamine and Esketamine offer new hope.
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): By alleviating distressing symptoms and improving emotional regulation, these therapies can help individuals regain control of their lives.
  • Suicidal Ideation: Ketamine has demonstrated the ability to reduce suicidal thoughts quickly, providing a critical window for further intervention.

Emerging research also supports Ketamine’s potential for treating anxiety disorders, bipolar depression, and chronic pain conditions, although these uses are still under investigation.