Protocols

Clinical Protocols: Dosing, Schedules & Treatment Models

Treatment design varies widely between clinics. These pages explain the dominant models so you can read a treatment plan critically and compare apples to apples.

Written by: Ira ZootMedical review status: Not yet clinically reviewed.Last updated: June 4, 2026Evidence: Clinical literature & published protocol papers

This page has been written and edited by the publisher. It has not been reviewed by a licensed clinician.

Quick answer

Is there one standard protocol?

No. There is no universally agreed-upon protocol for ketamine in depression. Most clinics anchor on the original Yale/NIMH 6-infusion induction, then individualize maintenance. Variation is the norm — which is why understanding the menu matters.

Educational only

Nothing here is a treatment plan. Specific dosing, frequency, and duration are decisions for you and your prescriber, made in light of your full medical picture.

Topics

Induction Series

The classic 6-infusion or 8-treatment loading phase: what it is and why.

Maintenance Dosing

Models for sustaining response: scheduled boosters vs symptom-triggered.

KAP vs Infusion-Only

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy compared with medical-model infusions.

Combination Care

How ketamine pairs with SSRIs, therapy, TMS, and lifestyle medicine.

Dose Escalation

When and how clinicians titrate dose for non-responders.

Discontinuation & Taper

Knowing when to stop, slow down, or step away from ketamine treatment.

About the author

Ira Zoot

Publisher and editor of Ketalux, based in Chicago, Illinois. Ira is a ketamine therapy patient, not a clinician. This is editorial review, not medical review: Ira is not a licensed clinician and does not provide diagnosis or medical care. Ketalux does not accept compensation from providers in exchange for favorable editorial coverage, evidence ratings, recommendations, patient referrals, or organic provider ranking. Read the full publisher disclosure →

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.