FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Ketamine Infusion Therapy for Mental Health
1. What is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
Ketamine infusion therapy involves the administration of low-dose ketamine through an intravenous (IV) infusion, primarily used to treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other treatment-resistant conditions. Ketamine has been shown to rapidly reduce symptoms in patients who have not responded to traditional treatments.
2. What mental health conditions can be treated with ketamine?
Ketamine has been found effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, particularly those that are resistant to traditional therapies, such as:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
3. How does ketamine work for mental health conditions?
Ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants. It affects the brain’s NMDA receptors and increases glutamate, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and synaptic growth. This can help repair neural pathways that may be disrupted in depression and anxiety, leading to rapid relief of symptoms for many individuals.
4. How long does a ketamine infusion session take?
Each infusion session typically lasts between 40 minutes to an hour. During this time, patients are closely monitored by a medical professional to ensure safety and comfort. After the infusion, you'll be observed for a short period before being cleared to go home with a designated driver.
5. How many ketamine treatments will I need?
The typical protocol consists of a series of 6 infusions administered over 2-3 weeks. After the initial series, some patients may require maintenance treatments on an as-needed basis, which can range from once every few weeks to months, depending on individual response.
6. What can I expect during a ketamine infusion session?
During the infusion, you may feel sensations of dissociation, relaxation, or dream-like states. These effects are temporary and subside shortly after the session ends. A licensed medical provider will be with you throughout the process to ensure a safe and positive experience.
7. Are there any side effects?
Common side effects during the infusion may include dizziness, nausea, or mild hallucinations, but these typically resolve quickly after the session. Serious side effects are rare, and ketamine is generally well-tolerated when administered in a controlled medical setting.
8. Is ketamine infusion therapy safe?
When administered by a trained healthcare professional in a medical setting, ketamine infusion therapy is safe. Our clinic takes every precaution to ensure patient safety, including thorough pre-evaluation, continuous monitoring during the infusion, and post-treatment care.
9. Will I need to stop my current medications to undergo ketamine infusions?
In most cases, you do not need to stop your current medications to begin ketamine infusion therapy. However, it's important to inform your provider about all medications you're taking so that they can ensure there are no contraindications or interactions.
10. How quickly will I see results from ketamine infusion therapy?
Many patients report noticeable improvements in mood and reduction of symptoms after the first or second infusion. However, individual responses vary, and some may require the full series of treatments before experiencing significant relief.
11. Is ketamine infusion therapy covered by insurance?
Currently, ketamine infusion therapy is considered an off-label treatment for mental health conditions, and many insurance plans do not cover it. However, we can provide detailed billing information to help you seek reimbursement from your insurance provider. Please check with your insurance for specific coverage.
12. What should I do to prepare for my ketamine infusion?
Before your infusion, avoid eating for 4-6 hours and drinking liquids for 2 hours to reduce the risk of nausea. You will also need to arrange for transportation home, as you should not drive after the session.
13. Who is a good candidate for ketamine infusion therapy?
Ketamine infusion therapy is typically recommended for individuals who have not responded to traditional treatments such as antidepressants or psychotherapy. A consultation with our medical team will determine if you are a good candidate based on your medical history and specific condition.
14. How do I get started with ketamine infusion therapy?
To get started, schedule a consultation with our clinic. During the evaluation, our medical provider will assess your mental health history, discuss treatment options, and determine if ketamine infusion is right for you.