If you're in crisis, there's something that can help within hours.
In a meta-analysis of 49 trials and 3,982 participants, IV ketamine produced significant reduction in suicidal ideation within 4 hours, with peak effect size of −0.955 at 24 hours (Wilkinson et al., 2018). For active crisis call 988. For evaluation at Music City Ketamine in Franklin, TN, call (615) 988-4600.
This is one of the strongest evidence bases in ketamine research. Ketamine can reduce suicidal ideation within hours — a critical advantage when someone is in acute crisis. The anti-suicidal effect appears to work partially independently of its antidepressant effects, operating through NMDA receptor modulation and rapid glutamate-mediated neuroplasticity.
A meta-analysis of 49 clinical trials found significant reduction in suicidal thoughts as early as 4 hours, with peak effects at 24 hours. Standard antidepressants carry a 4-8 week onset — time that someone in crisis may not have.
This is a medical treatment, not a suggestion to "think positive" or "try harder." At Music City Ketamine in Franklin, TN, Marla Peterson, CRNA administers every infusion under physician supervision in a private suite with real-time monitoring. The environment is calm, safe, and closely attended. Your dose is adjusted based on your individual response. You are not alone in this.
Ready to explore whether ketamine therapy is right for you?
Schedule a Consultation"I had almost given up. I don't say that lightly. When I came to Music City Ketamine, Marla and her team treated me like my life mattered — because it does. They understood the urgency. They didn't make me wait weeks. After my first infusion, the noise in my head got quieter for the first time in months. I finally had enough space to breathe and believe things could be different."
Research shows ketamine can begin reducing suicidal ideation within 4 hours of administration, with peak effects at 24 hours. This rapid onset is critical for patients in crisis. At Music City Ketamine in Franklin, TN, Marla Peterson, CRNA monitors your response in real time.
Ketamine for suicidal ideation is administered under direct medical supervision by a CRNA with 20+ years of anesthesia experience. It is a controlled medical treatment, not a take-home medication. Your safety is the absolute priority throughout the session.
The initial protocol typically involves 6 infusions over 2-3 weeks, which can provide sustained relief. Maintenance sessions are based on your individual response. Marla Peterson, CRNA works with you and your existing mental health providers to create a comprehensive care plan.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
20+ years of anesthesia experience. Member, Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). Marla personally administers and monitors every infusion at Music City Ketamine. Read her full bio →
Common questions about IV ketamine therapy for Suicidal Ideation at Music City Ketamine.
Yes — among the most well-documented effects of IV ketamine. A meta-analysis of 49 trials and 3,982 participants found significant reduction in suicidal ideation within 4 hours, with peak effect size of −0.955 at 24 hours (Wilkinson et al., American Journal of Psychiatry, 2018).
Often within 4 hours of the first infusion. This rapid onset is what makes IV ketamine clinically distinct from oral antidepressants, which can take 4-8 weeks to begin reducing suicidal thoughts.
If you are in active crisis, call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) immediately or go to your nearest emergency room. IV ketamine is a treatment for outpatient evaluation, not an emergency intervention. Once stable, IV ketamine may be appropriate as part of your ongoing treatment plan.
No — it is not a cure. It rapidly reduces the intensity of suicidal thoughts, creating a window where ongoing therapy, medication, and support can take effect. Maintenance infusions are typically required to sustain the benefit.
Yes — most patients with treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation continue their existing medications while receiving IV ketamine. Marla Peterson, CRNA reviews your full medication list during consultation. Active benzodiazepine use may reduce ketamine effectiveness and is discussed individually.
If the thoughts have become constant and nothing has helped, ketamine therapy may provide the rapid relief you need. Marla Peterson, CRNA at Music City Ketamine in Franklin, TN understands the urgency. You don't have to wait weeks to feel something shift.
Schedule a Conversation Text (615) 988-4600