Ketamine was approved for use in anesthesia during the early 1970’s and quickly became one of the most commonly used anesthetics. Soon after, it was placed on the "World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines".

It was not until 2000, after the publication of a small study from Yale University, that the interest in Ketamine's use as an antidepressant began. Two years later Time magazine published a story entitled “Ketamine for Depression: The Most Important Advance in Field in 50 Years?” which was the first mainstream recognition of Ketamine's alternative use in the treatment of depression. The NIH has performed two studies evaluating Ketamine’s safety and effectiveness in the treatment of depression with both showing positive results.

The initial excitement surrounding Ketamine's alternative use was based on a couple unique attributes. The treatment works through a different mechanism than most antidepressants. While roughly 20-30% of patients do not respond to traditional therapies, Ketamine has been shown to benefit 70% of those difficult to treat patients. Ketamine also has been shown to produce results faster than traditional medications. Many patients even notice relief within a few days.