*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.
In order to get prescribed ketamine online, you will first need to find an at-home ketamine treatment provider who can and will prescribe it, as well as provide clinical options for overseeing your treatment. Not all online platforms will prescribe ketamine due to the nature of the drug. Finding a specialty provider for at-home ketamine therapy is important; one that does thorough evaluation prior to prescribing, provides safety measures, and includes integrative therapeutic options around taking the drug is ideal.
For in person treatment, your primary care physician may be able to refer you to a prescriber who can evaluate you, prescribe ketamine, and provide clinical options to oversee your treatment. If you are looking to access your ketamine treatment online, we have thoroughly reviewed platforms like Mindbloom that prescribe ketamine and provide integrative therapy for at-home treatment. In using them, we have found them to be a good place to get started with an evaluation.
If your provider feels ketamine treatment is a good fit for your mental health history and current symptoms, they may prescribe you ketamine and create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Ketamine is a controlled substance, which means that it’s more likely to be misused or cause dependence. There are federal and state laws that limit the amount of medication that can be prescribed or dispensed within a certain period of time.
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What Is Ketamine & What Is it Used For?
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that induces a trance-like state, altering perception and producing dream-like sensations.1 Ketamine therapy has the potential to treat major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.2, 3 Ketamine’s use as a psychedelic therapy involves carefully monitored sessions, often with a series of treatments.
The effects of ketamine can provide rapid relief for individuals struggling with severe depression or trauma-related conditions. Ketamine is administered via intravenous infusion in a controlled medical setting because of its status as a controlled substance. As so, ketamine requires a prescription to prevent misuse and ensure its proper administration.
The FDA has approved ketamine for use as an anesthetic and for pain management. Specifically, the drug is approved for use in medical procedures that require anesthesia, such as surgeries or diagnostic tests, and for managing pain in certain situations.1
However, due to its efficacy, it has been prescribed off-label for depression when other treatments prove ineffective.2 Off-label use of ketamine refers to its prescription for conditions not specifically approved by the FDA.4 Despite not being FDA-approved as a depression treatment, prescribers can utilize it off-label if they believe it may benefit the patient based on their professional judgment.
Side Effects & Risks of Ketamine
While ketamine can offer therapeutic benefits, be aware of possible adverse effects, including psychosis, cardiovascular complications, and dissociative experiences. Without proper medical guidance and management, the misuse of ketamine can lead to significant health concerns.
Common side effects of ketamine include1:*
- Psychosis and psychotic disorders
- Intense flashbacks
- Cardiovascular complications
- Dissociative effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Risk of addiction
- Confusion and disorientation
- Blurred vision
- Memory problems
*Ketamine has a risk of side effects, including serious side effects. You should talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits and risks of any medication before starting treatment.
Who Can Be Prescribed Ketamine?
Ketamine may be considered a part of the treatment for depression when other standard therapies like medication for depression have been ineffective.2 Patients who have never undergone psychotherapy or medication for depression should explore those options before considering ketamine treatment. It is typically reserved for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, meaning they have not responded well to other therapies.
A doctor will evaluate the severity of the depression and the patient’s response to previous treatments before considering ketamine. If other psychotherapy or medication for depression have not shown a discernible improvement, or the depression is severe and endangers the patient’s health, the doctor may suggest ketamine treatment.
Additionally, individuals with suicidal thoughts or acute suicidal ideation may be candidates for ketamine treatment, as it can provide rapid relief and reduce the risk of self-harm.2
Some signs that you may benefit of getting ketamine prescribed include:3, 5
- You have severe and treatment resistant depression that has not improved with standard therapies.
- You use antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and wish to stop using them
- You experience chronic and debilitating pain that is not relieved by other treatments.
- You have recurrent and distressing PTSD flashbacks
- You have a history of substance use disorder and need support for managing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- You struggle with anxiety and panic attacks that significantly impact your daily life.
Who Shouldn’t Be Prescribed Ketamine
Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid ketamine use altogether due to specific health concerns. Individuals who fall under categories such as children, teenagers, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with certain medical conditions might be at higher risk for adverse effects from ketamine.1 Always consult a healthcare professional to determine if ketamine is appropriate for your specific circumstances.
You may experience adverse effects from taking ketamine if you have the following:
- Hypertension or uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Heart diseases or related issues
- A history of substance use disorder or addiction
- Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to limited safety data)
- A known allergy or sensitivity to ketamine or related medications
How to Get Ketamine Prescribed to You
Obtaining a ketamine prescription is required since ketamine is a controlled substance. Before prescribing ketamine for mental health treatment, a doctor will thoroughly evaluate its suitability for a patient. They will inquire about the patient’s medical history, current medications, and specific symptoms to ensure the safe and effective use of ketamine.
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When looking to get prescribed ketamine for mental health treatment, be sure to follow these eight steps:
- Consult your symptoms with your primary care doctor: They are usually the first point of contact to discuss your symptoms and receive a referral if needed.
- Describe your symptoms thoroughly: Be honest and open about your mental health struggles, including any history of treatment-resistant depression or failed medication trials.
- Ask about whether a prescription for ketamine is appropriate: While you are inquiring about ketamine, you can ask about other treatment options, too, as these may be more suitable for your condition.
- Consider a consultation with a mental health specialist: If your doctor believes ketamine could be beneficial, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or other mental health specialist experienced in ketamine treatment.
- Share any medical conditions or medications: Provide this information to your provider so they can determine if ketamine is safe for you. For example, if you are seeking ketamine to address sleep disorders, be sure to discuss your sleep concerns openly and thoroughly.
- Examine the risks: Recognize the dangers and adverse effects of using ketamine as a treatment and weigh them against the potential benefits.
- Establish a treatment plan: Once you and your healthcare provider agree on ketamine treatment, establish a comprehensive treatment plan, including the frequency and duration of treatment sessions.
- Regularly monitor progress and make adjustments: Always keep your healthcare provider updated with your progress so that, if needed, adjustments to your treatment plan can be made.
Keep in mind that every person’s circumstance is distinct, and work together with your healthcare practitioner to get the most effective and safe treatment for your mental health needs.
Who Can Prescribe Ketamine?
There are only certain types of healthcare providers who are authorized to prescribe ketamine. While some states may allow psychologists and nurse practitioners to prescribe ketamine, it’s important to be aware of the specific regulations in your area to be safe.
You can usually get a ketamine prescription from the following providers:
- Primary Care Provider: A primary care provider will do a consultation during a regular check-in appointment or may schedule a separate appointment.6
- Psychiatrist: A psychiatrist can prescribe ketamine and may focus more on medication management than therapy services.6
- Psychologists: In Louisiana and New Mexico, psychologists may obtain the authority to prescribe medication.7
- Nurse Practitioner: In California, Colorado, and Illinois, nurse practitioners may obtain the authority to prescribe ketamine for qualified patients.8
How to Get Ketamine Prescribed Online
Getting ketamine prescribed online is increasingly accessible through telehealth services, where online psychiatrists conduct consultations remotely. Typically, this involves video calls or secure messaging platforms. The benefits include convenience, especially for those with limited access to in-person appointments, making difficult conversations about mental health more comfortable and potentially reducing time constraints and the hassle of traveling to a physical office.
While online ketamine therapy options offer convenience, barriers may exist due to ketamine being a controlled substance. Regulations vary by state and country, so it’s essential to ensure that online prescriptions comply with local laws. Additionally, not all online providers may be authorized to prescribe ketamine, so seek out reputable sources. Geographic location can also impact access to certain telehealth services, as some providers may have state-specific limitations on their practice.
This medication has to be administered via an IV by a licensed healthcare professional, so patients must get this type of treatment in person. It is still possible to use online mental health and prescription care services with this type of medication. If your local provider is not experienced with decisions about when ketamine is appropriate, they can still administer the medication based on the recommendations of the experienced online provider.
Mindbloom offers at-home ketamine treatment for those who are a good fit. It’s a unique way of harnessing the power of psychedelics from the comfort of your own home. Learn more in our full Mindbloom review, where one of our editors went through the program to see what it’s like.
How Much Does Ketamine Cost?
The cost of Ketamine can vary based on several factors, including your location, the pharmacy you use, and whether you have insurance, as well as on the dosage and length of prescription (number of days) your doctor prescribes.
Ketamine Prices
The cost of ketamine, the generic form of Ketalar, currently ranges from $4-$17 for a 30-day supply of 100 milligrams without insurance. Your prescription of ketamine may cost much less with insurance depending on your plan and coverage. A similar prescription of Ketalar costs $14-$22. The cost will also vary based on the dosage and amount prescribed. Coupons for ketamine are often available and may reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Note: Cash prices listed are derived from multiple sources. The prices listed are an estimate only and cannot be guaranteed. For exact prices, please contact the pharmacy.
Walmart
$17
Walgreens
$4
CVS / Target
$13
RiteAid
$15
Kroger
$14
Costco
$21
Hy-Vee
$5
Publix
$8
Does Insurance Cover Ketamine?
Ketamine is typically not covered by insurance when used to treat depression because that is not an FDA-approved use of the medication. However, it’s possible your policy may cover ketamine for this use. It is important to note that policies can change coverage at any time. Requirements for medication coverage may vary for Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and commercial insurance policies. Contact your insurance provider directly to learn whether your prescription may be covered.
If your insurance does cover a ketamine prescription, Mindbloom is a good online option that one of our editors has used and reviewed.
What If I Can’t Get Prescribed Ketamine?
If you can’t get prescribed ketamine through legitimate channels, avoid seeking medication illegally. Engaging in such activities can have legal consequences and put your health at risk. Illicit street versions of ketamine may be impure and lead to unpredictable and harmful effects on your mental and physical well-being. Instead, work with a qualified healthcare professional and explore alternative treatment options that are safe and legal.
What Are Ketamine Alternatives?
There are many ketamine alternatives available for those with treatment-resistant depression. If your doctor determines that ketamine is not a good fit for your treatment, or if you have trouble accessing ketamine treatment, there are other avenues of treatment that doctors may try. These ketamine alternatives typically involve usage of antidepressants, but can also include combining an antidepressant with another class of medication.
Treatment options available as ketamine alternatives include:
- Trying a different antidepressant in the same class: Classes include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), newer antidepressants (affect different serotonin receptors), older antidepressants (tricyclics), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
- Trying an antidepressant from a different class: For example, the psychiatrist may switch from an SSRI to an SNRI. Or use new FDA-approved medications that target NMDA receptors, such as Auvelity (dextromethorphan-bupropion).
- Continuing the current medicine and adding a new one from a different class: This is called combination therapy.
- Continuing the current medicine and adding one that is not typically used to treat depression: This method is called augmentation therapy. It may include antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety medications, thyroid hormone, or others.
Ketalar is the brand name version of ketamine given in clinics via IV. The generic version may be prescribed as an alternative to the brand name for several reasons. It contains ketamine hydrochloride, the same active ingredient as brand-name Ketalar. The generic form also has the same treatment benefits as brand name Ketalar at a lower cost.
Questions to Ask Your Health Team About Ketamine
Talk with your healthcare team about using this controlled substance. Ask about potential side effects, monitoring progress, alternative options, and support available throughout the treatment process to make informed decisions about ketamine and your mental health.
Questions to ask your care team about getting a Ketamine prescription online or in-person include:
- What should I do to prepare for my treatment sessions?
- How will my progress be monitored, and how often should I come for checkups?
- What are the potential long-term effects of ketamine, and are there any precautions I should take?
- Should I be concerned about possible interactions with other medications I am currently taking?
- How can I manage and cope with any initial discomfort or side effects that may arise?
- What support options are available if I experience challenges with ketamine treatment?
- What are the risks and benefits of ketamine compared to other treatment options?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or complementary therapies that can enhance the effectiveness of ketamine treatment?
- How do I make the most of my ketamine experience to address my depression or anxiety symptoms?
- What should I avoid before and after taking ketamine?
- How can I ensure I receive a legitimate and safe prescription for ketamine?
How to Get Immediate Help
Seek help right away if you’re experiencing a crisis and are dealing with depression or addiction. If you are having suicidal or self-harming thoughts, contact a mental health professional, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988), or dial 911. Don’t hesitate to talk to someone you trust if you need immediate support or assistance managing your depression. Keep in mind that there are compassionate people you may turn to for support when things get tough.
Prescriber’s Tips
In my experience, I’ve witnessed the transformative effects of ketamine treatment for depression and certain mental health conditions. Patients need to have direct discussions with their medical professionals regarding the potential advantages and disadvantages of ketamine. While ketamine can be helpful for those with treatment-resistant depression, its long-term effects are still being studied.2
Know that you are not alone if you’re looking for assistance with depression or other conditions that ketamine may help with. Remember that there’s always something to hope for, and with the right support and guidance, you can navigate the challenges you will find your way.
- Ketamine can cause sedation and drowsiness. Do not drive or do hazardous activities within 24 hours of receiving or taking the medication. If doing an infusion, arrange for someone to drive you to and from your treatment session.
- Avoid alcohol, cannabis, and other intoxicating substances 24 hours before and after taking the medication.
- Because you may feel groggy after taking ketamine, do not schedule work or other obligations on the same day as your treatment.
- Avoid eating or drinking several hours before your treatment session. Ketamine may cause nausea or make you vomit. The timeframe may differ for tablets and infusion treatment.
- Be aware that several medications and supplements can create unsafe interactions with ketamine.
- Dress in comfortable clothes that won’t restrict your movement. Wear a short-sleeved shirt if you are doing an infusion session.
- Prepare your mind and stay as relaxed as possible before your session. Avoid distressing videos, music, social media, or news. Getting a good night of sleep and listening to a calming playlist of music can put you in a calm state of mind.
- Ketamine therapy works best when paired with therapeutic activities such as journaling, mindfulness, and spending time in nature. Follow the recommendations of your therapist or clinician to make the best use of ketamine to help your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Refill Your Ketamine Prescription Online?
Controlled substances such as ketamine cannot be refilled online if the initial evaluation was done remotely. Refills must be done with an in-person visit to a medical practitioner. Talk to your provider to make sure you can get your prescription refills when you need them, whether online or in person.
Can I Get Ketamine Delivered to My Home?
Yes, you may be able to have compounded ketamine tablets delivered to your home, but this service may vary depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatry platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy. Only the compounded tablet form of ketamine is available for home delivery. Ketamine infusions are only made available during clinic appointments.
Can You Get Ketamine From a Walk-in Clinic?
An urgent care clinic cannot prescribe or provide ketamine therapy. These providers are not able to monitor and follow up with patients long-term for treatments like these. If you do not have a prescription, you will need a full psychiatric evaluation first. An urgent care or walk-in clinic is not equipped to provide this type of evaluation.10
How Much Does Ketamine Cost Without Insurance?
The cash cost of brand name ketamine (Ketalar) can range from $225-$252 for one vial of the smallest dosage available.9 The total cost of treatment sessions in a clinic can range from $350-$700 depending on your location. Most at-home ketamine treatments, which use tablet-based ketamine rather than infusions, cost around $100-$200 per session. The cost for new patients with Mindbloom is $1,176 for 6 sessions.
What if My Insurance Won’t Pay for My Ketamine Prescription?
Ketamine therapy is typically not covered by insurance because it is not an FDA-approved treatment for depression. Check with your insurance directly to understand your coverage. Ketamine discounts and savings programs may help reduce the cost. Check with each savings program to see if you are eligible.
Can You Get Ketamine Over the Counter?
No, ketamine is only available with a prescription.
Is There a Generic Version of Ketamine?
Yes, a generic version of ketamine is available and has the active ingredient ketamine hydrochloride.
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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DailyMed – KETALAR- ketamine hydrochloride injection. (November 8, 2023). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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Wilkinson, S. T., & Sanacora, G. (2017). Considerations on the Off-label Use of Ketamine as a Treatment for Mood Disorders. JAMA, 318(9), 793–794. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2017.10697
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Krupitsky, E. M., & Grinenko, A. Y. (1997). Ketamine psychedelic therapy (KPT): a review of the results of ten years of research. Journal of psychoactive drugs, 29(2), 165–183. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.1997.10400185
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Federal Drug Administration. (2018). Understanding Unapproved Use of Approved Drugs “Off Label.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/patients/learn-about-expanded-access-and-other-treatment-options/understanding-unapproved-use-approved-drugs-label
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Taylor, J. H., Landeros-Weisenberger, A., Coughlin, C., Mulqueen, J., Johnson, J. A., Gabriel, D., Reed, M. O., Jakubovski, E., & Bloch, M. H. (2018). Ketamine for Social Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial. Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 43(2), 325–333. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2017.194
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American Medical Association. (2009). Comparison of Prescribing Statutes: New Mexico and Louisiana [Review of Comparison of Prescribing Statutes: New Mexico and Louisiana ]. Retrieved from https://www.aacap.org/App_Themes/AACAP/docs/Advocacy/federal_and_state_initiatives/scope_of_practice/AMA_LA_and_NM_comparison.pdf
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Moors, S. (2023). Therapists can now prescribe ketamine. Digital Health Insights. Retrieved from https://www.dhinsights.org/news/off-label-ketamine
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Anderson, K. (2021). Canadian company to open ketamine clinic in Reno in early 2022. Northern Nevada Business weekly. www.nnbw.com. Retrieved from https://www.nnbw.com/news/2021/dec/28/canadian-company-open-ketamine-clinic-reno-early-2/
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Ketalar Prices, Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs. (n.d.) Drugs.com. Retrieved from https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/ketalar
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Spencer, Aiden. (May 19, 2016). What Type of Medication Can an Urgent Care Doctor Prescribe? AJMC.com. Retrieved from https://www.ajmc.com/view/what-type-of-medication-can-an-urgent-care-doctor-prescribe
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated formatting and added new article content including drug overview summary block, cost table, and alternatives comparison slider. Also updated “Questions to Ask Your Provider” and “Prescriber Tips” page features.
Author: (No Change)
Medical Reviewer: (No Change)
Primary Changes: Added new sections titled “How Much Does Xanax Cost?”, “Does Insurance Cover Ketamine?”, “What Are Ketamine Alternatives?”, “Prescriber’s Tips”, “FAQs”. Reviewed and added relevant sources. Edited for readability and clarity.
Author: Max Ruvinov, PharmD, MBA
Reviewer: Heidi Moawad, MD
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