At Zephyr Medical, we believe that healing isn’t just about science—it’s about stories. Each patient brings a unique journey, and when ketamine therapy becomes part of that path, the results can be life-changing. Led by Dr. Benjamin Portal, a highly trained physician with a deep commitment to integrative mental health and pain care, our team works to ensure each patient receives compassionate, personalized treatment.
Below are anonymized testimonials, shared with consent, that highlight how IV ketamine has helped real people in Brooklyn find relief from depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Patient Journeys
Emily, 34 – Relief from Treatment-Resistant Depression
After trying multiple antidepressants without success, Emily felt hopeless. Within hours of her first ketamine infusion at Zephyr Medical, she noticed a shift: “The heaviness lifted. For the first time in years, I could take a deep breath and actually feel lightness.” With ongoing therapy and support, she has been able to return to work and rebuild her relationships.
Marcus, 42 – Managing Chronic Back Pain
Marcus struggled with severe back pain following a spinal injury. Traditional pain medications left him groggy, with little relief. After a series of ketamine infusions, his pain scores dropped dramatically. “It didn’t just dull the pain—it gave me my life back. I can play with my kids again without wincing every moment.”
Sara, 29 – Overcoming Severe Anxiety
Sara’s anxiety made it nearly impossible to leave her apartment. Conventional medications offered little benefit. Ketamine therapy, paired with counseling, allowed her to regain confidence and social engagement. “I don’t feel trapped anymore. My world feels open again.”
Why These Stories Matter
While not every patient experiences the same level of transformation, these cases demonstrate ketamine’s ability to bring rapid and profound improvement when other treatments fall short. At Zephyr Medical, Dr. Benjamin Portal and our dedicated team carefully monitor each infusion, tailoring care to each patient’s unique needs and integrating treatments into broader wellness plans for long-term success.
Q&A: Understanding Ketamine Therapy
Q: Is ketamine therapy FDA-approved?
A: The FDA has approved esketamine (Spravato®) for treatment-resistant depression, administered under strict guidelines. IV ketamine is considered an “off-label” use, but decades of research support its effectiveness and safety when delivered in a controlled medical setting.
Q: How soon can patients expect results?
A: Many report noticeable improvements in mood, pain, or anxiety within hours to days. For lasting benefits, ketamine is often given as a series of infusions, paired with ongoing therapeutic support.
Q: Is ketamine safe?
A: When administered by trained professionals like Dr. Portal and the Zephyr Medical team, ketamine is generally safe. Patients are closely monitored throughout the infusion to manage side effects such as mild dissociation, elevated blood pressure, or dizziness.
Q: Who is a good candidate for IV ketamine?
A: Candidates often include individuals with treatment-resistant depression, severe anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain who have not responded well to traditional medications or therapies.
Q: Can ketamine therapy replace my current medications?
A: Not necessarily. For many patients, ketamine is part of a larger treatment plan that may also include medications, psychotherapy, or integrative therapies. Decisions are always tailored to each patient’s needs.
Contact Zephyr Medical
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, anxiety, or chronic pain, Dr. Benjamin Portal and the Zephyr Medical team can help. We are committed to delivering safe, compassionate, and personalized care.
📍 Zephyr Medical
111 Livingston St Suite 1901
Brooklyn, NY 11201
📞 (646) 727-9977
🌐 zephyrmd.com