Comparison
Ketamine vs lithium augmentation
Lithium augmentation has decades of evidence in treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine offers faster relief but less long-term outcome data. They are sometimes used together.
Medically reviewed by: Pending medical review(draft)Last updated: June 4, 2026Evidence: Educational synthesis - not medical advice
Ketamine
Lithium augmentation
Mechanism
NMDA antagonism, glutamate surge, plasticity.
Modulates intracellular signaling (GSK-3, inositol), monoamines, and neuroprotection.
Evidence
Strong short-term TRD response.
Robust long-term TRD augmentation evidence; reduces suicidality.
Onset
Hours to days.
Two to six weeks.
Duration
Days to weeks; requires maintenance.
Ongoing while taken; monitored levels.
Side effects
Transient dissociation, BP, nausea.
Tremor, thyroid and kidney effects, weight gain; requires blood monitoring.
Access
Specialty clinics.
Psychiatry; standard prescription.
Best for
Rapid relief; patients seeking non-daily treatment.
Long-term TRD management, suicidality reduction, bipolar spectrum considerations.
Limits
Less long-term outcome data.
Side-effect burden; lab monitoring required.
Educational use only. The content on this page is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ketamine and related therapies carry risks and are appropriate only under qualified medical supervision. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional about your individual situation. Information may change as research evolves.