Story perspectives

Ketamine Clinics Show 85% Suicide Relief, But Cost Sparks Illicit Market

5/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ketamine therapy is offered in U.S. clinics and produces rapid antidepressant effects for treatment-resistant patients.
The drug blocks NMDA receptors, inducing neuroplasticity that forms new pathways and disrupts depressive circuits.
A 2022 Virginia study found 72 percent responded after ten infusions and 85 percent of suicidal patients achieved resolution.
Because insurance rarely covers IV infusions, patients pay hundreds to over a thousand dollars per session, prompting illicit purchases.

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Story summary

Ketamine therapy is offered in U.S. clinics and produces rapid antidepressant effects for treatment-resistant patients.
The drug blocks NMDA receptors, inducing neuroplasticity that forms new pathways and disrupts depressive circuits.
A 2022 Virginia study found 72 percent responded after ten infusions and 85 percent of suicidal patients achieved resolution.
Because insurance rarely covers IV infusions, patients pay hundreds to over a thousand dollars per session, prompting illicit purchases.