For individuals living with treatment-resistant anxiety or depression, traditional therapies such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and psychotherapy often fall short. Many patients find themselves struggling despite years of conventional care.
At Zephyr Medical in Brooklyn, under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Portal, we specialize in offering advanced, science-driven solutions that bring fast relief—most notably, intravenous (IV) ketamine therapy.
Unlike standard medications that may take weeks or months to work, ketamine often begins improving symptoms within hours to days, even for those who have not responded to other treatments. This groundbreaking therapy is transforming the lives of patients who previously felt they had no options left.
How Ketamine Works
Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that acts on the brain in a different way than traditional antidepressants. By modulating glutamate, the brain’s most abundant neurotransmitter, ketamine helps repair and rewire neural pathways involved in mood, resilience, and emotional regulation.
Key benefits include:
- Rapid symptom relief – Many patients notice improvement within the first few sessions.
- Efficacy for treatment-resistant cases – Ketamine is effective for patients who haven’t found relief with SSRIs, SNRIs, or other medications.
- Dual impact – Helps with both depression and anxiety, including severe and refractory cases.
- Improved neuroplasticity – Supports the brain’s ability to form new, healthier connections.
The Zephyr Medical Experience
At Zephyr Medical, located in the heart of Brooklyn Heights, we provide more than just treatment—we deliver a personalized, white-glove experience. Patients are welcomed into a calming infusion suite designed for comfort and relaxation.
Dr. Benjamin Portal and his medical team tailor each protocol to the individual, with continuous monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness. Our goal is not only to relieve symptoms quickly, but also to provide a supportive environment where patients can reclaim their quality of life.
Q&A: Understanding Ketamine Therapy at Zephyr
Q: Who is a candidate for ketamine therapy?
A: Ketamine may be an option for adults with major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, or other mood disorders that haven’t improved with traditional medications and therapy.
Q: How soon will I feel relief?
A: Many patients experience noticeable changes in mood, clarity, or anxiety levels within the first one to three sessions. For others, relief may develop more gradually over a series of treatments.
Q: Is ketamine safe?
A: Yes. When administered in a clinical setting by trained professionals like Dr. Benjamin Portal, ketamine is safe and well-tolerated. Patients are carefully monitored throughout each infusion.
Q: How is ketamine different from other antidepressants?
A: Traditional antidepressants target serotonin and norepinephrine, which may take weeks to regulate mood. Ketamine acts on glutamate pathways, producing rapid effects and supporting brain rewiring.
Q: How long do results last?
A: Results vary. Some patients maintain improvements for weeks to months after a series of infusions. Maintenance sessions may be recommended to sustain benefits.
Q: Will I still need therapy or medication?
A: Ketamine is often most effective as part of a comprehensive care plan. Many patients continue with psychotherapy or other treatments while using ketamine to enhance overall recovery.
Contact Zephyr Medical
Zephyr Medical
111 Livingston St Suite 1901
Brooklyn, NY 11201
📞 (646) 727-9977
🌐 zephyrmd.com