Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Ketamine Therapy for Depression (2020–2024) A Comparative Evidence Summary

More than 25 systematic reviews and meta-analyses published between 2020 and 2025 on ketamine-based therapies for depression are summarized. Intravenous (IV) ketamine, esketamine nasal spray (Spravato), and oral ketamine show differences in response rates, remission rates, speed of symptom relief, and durability of results. The report also examines research on combining ketamine with psychotherapy. The evidence is drawn from high-quality peer-reviewed studies, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies, providing a clear overview of the most reliable evidence available.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This report summarizes more than 25 systematic reviews and meta-analyses published between 2020 and 2025 on ketamine-based therapies for depression. It provides a comparative analysis of intravenous (IV) ketamine, esketamine nasal spray (Spravato), and oral ketamine, highlighting differences in response rates, remission rates, speed of symptom relief, and durability of results.It also examines research on the impact of combining ketamine with psychotherapy. Drawing from high-quality peer-reviewed studies, the report is designed to offer patients, clinicians, journalists, and policymakers a clear, accessible overview of the most reliable evidence available.While research on ketamine’s use in psychiatry is still emerging, this summary is grounded in the most rigorous and credible studies to date—those that aggregate findings from randomized controlled trials and observational studies. By consolidating this data into one document, the report helps readers bypass the complexities of academic publishing and access the essential takeaways from years of scientific investigation. More information and supporting resources are available at https://ketaminetherapyfordepression.org