FAQs

Ketamine is a medication originally developed for anesthesia during surgeries and medical procedures. It has been FDA-approved for sedation and anesthesia since the 1960s and is widely used in hospitals and emergency rooms. The World Health Organization includes it on its list of essential medicines. Recently, ketamine has also been used “off-label” to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and some chronic pain disorders, showing a strong safety record when used correctly.

The exact way ketamine relieves depression, anxiety, and chronic pain is not fully understood. However, it is known to interact with the NMDA receptor, blocking the neurotransmitter glutamate. Studies have shown that ketamine improves neuronal health by enhancing connections between brain cells and promoting neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and change. Additionally, ketamine alters how the central nervous system processes pain, effectively “resetting” it to normal functioning. Research in animal models also suggests that ketamine may increase resilience and recovery from traumatic events. Furthermore, ketamine decreases activity in the Default Mode Network (DMN) of the brain, which tends to be more active in individuals with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain

Ketamine infusions may be appropriate for you if you suffer from anxiety disorders, PTSD, pain disorders, or depression, particularly if traditional oral medications have not been effective. This treatment may be a good option if you want to avoid the side effects of conventional treatments or if your current treatments are not working.

Ketamine has been a safe, FDA-approved anesthetic since 1970 and is recommended by the World Health Organization as an essential medication for hospitals. When administered in a medical setting, ketamine infusion therapy has not been associated with addiction.

Although ketamine is known by street names such as “Special K,” “Kit Kat,” or “K,” these refer to its misuse. Ketamine IV therapy is administered in controlled doses and settings under medical supervision, unlike its illicit use.

Yes, we provide ketamine infusions in a consulting capacity and recommend that you continue regular visits with your healthcare providers.

There are three main reasons: comfort with administering the medication, awareness of this treatment, and acceptance of this treatment. Beyond emergency room doctors and anesthesiologists, few medical professionals feel comfortable providing this therapy. Many doctors are not familiar with the latest research on ketamine and know it only as an anesthetic or a substance used recreationally. Some doctors may not be aware of this treatment, while others adhere to traditional treatment methods and are hesitant to adopt new approaches.

Patients often report feeling dreamy or sedated, and may notice changes in their thought process, vision, or speech. If you experience any unwanted sensations or hallucinations, we can adjust the dosage or the infusion rate to make you more comfortable. Rest assured, a healthcare professional will always be nearby to ensure your safety and well-being during the infusion.

Most patients recover within 20-30 minutes after the infusion. You might feel slightly tired, have mild difficulty walking, or experience “cloudy thinking” for a few hours. We recommend taking it easy and having a relaxing day following the treatment. We will ensure you are ready and safe to go home before you leave.

Ketamine can cause dissociation, leading to out-of-body experiences for some individuals. Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, headaches, and fatigue. In some cases, it can raise blood pressure and pulse. We will monitor you closely throughout the process, and trained medical professionals will be on hand. A long-term side effect associated with chronic use is bladder irritation, also known as cystitis.

For mood disorders, the infusion lasts about 40 minutes, but the total appointment time, including recovery, can be up to 1.5 to 2 hours. For pain disorders, infusions may last up to 4 hours.

The duration of the effects varies. A single infusion can last from a few days to a month. A series of 4-6 infusions may provide relief for weeks to months. Often, a booster infusion can extend the benefits when the effects start to diminish. Individual responses vary, with some patients experiencing several months of relief from a few infusions.