Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered traditional antidepressants, but they are not suitable for everyone. Ketamine and auvelity are regarded as transformative treatment options for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Here’s how ketamine and auvelity differ from each other.
Ketamine
Ketamine is an anesthetic medicine with dissociative properties, first synthesized in the 1960s. Today, it’s used for reducing severe symptoms of various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Ketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptors in the brain, causing a surge of glutamate. This action promotes better mood regulation, neuroplasticity and can reduce the negative thought patterns that are common occurrences of many mental health disorders.
Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine Therapy is conducted in a clinical setting by compassionate medical professionals. Ketamine Therapy is administered intramuscularly (IM), intravenously (IV), or nasally (Spravato nasal spray). IM is the preferred way of administration due to fewer side effects. Each ketamine session is medically monitored by Guides to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment.
Ketamine Therapy Services
There are several ketamine treatments available, depending on the individual’s preferences and therapeutic goals. Ketamine Therapy includes:
Guided Ketamine Therapy: A treatment with extensive preparation and integration led by a trusted Guide of choice. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) by injecting it into the large muscle of the shoulder.
Semi-Guided Ketamine Therapy: A balanced treatment with limited preparation and guidance, led by a trusted Guide. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV).
IV Ketamine Infusions: A ketamine treatment administered intravenously (IV), with similar elements of Semi-Guided Therapy.
Couples Ketamine Therapy: For couples seeking to strengthen their bond and heal together in a supportive and understanding setting. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) by injecting it into the large muscle of the shoulder.
Group Ketamine Therapy: For people seeking to heal in a group setting with up to 6 individuals with similar struggles. Ketamine is administered intramuscularly (IM) by injecting it into the large muscle of the shoulder.
Spravato Treatment (Esketamine): An FDA-approved nasal spray, self-administered under clinical supervision. The treatment is sprayed into the nose 2-3 times, each spaced five minutes apart.
Auvelity
Auvelity is a rapid antidepressant medication used for treating major depressive disorder (MDD). Auvelity comes in the form of a pill with two active ingredients: dextromethorphan and bupropion. Dextromethorphan works by interacting with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA) in the brain, while bupropion is an antidepressant that works as a support and blocks the breakdown of dextromethorphan. Auvelity is considered a faster oral antidepressant compared to SSRIs.
Ketamine vs Auvelity: A Comparative Overview
Both ketamine and auvelity are considered fast-acting antidepressants, but they differ in many aspects, such as administration methods, mechanisms of action, and side effects. Here are some key differences and advantages that can shape the patients’ experience.
| Treatment | Ketamine | Auvelity |
| Administration | Injection, infusion, nasal (Spravato) | Oral (tablet) |
| Onset of Effects | Within hours or days | Within days or weeks |
| Duration of Treatment | Two to six weeks | It can last from a few months to a few years |
| Frequency of Treatment | Structured as a short series that lasts a few weeks | Ongoing |
| Potential Side Effects | Nausea, high blood pressure, lightheadedness, headaches | Dizziness, diarrhea, drowsiness, headaches, dry mouth |
| Black Box Warning | / | Can potentially increase suicidal ideation in patients under 25 |
Break Free From Symptoms of Depression Today
Schedule a free consultation with Kadelyx Health and learn more about the transformative effects of Ketamine Therapy and how it can help in your healing journey.
