Frequently Asked Questions
What patients are candidates for Ketamine Therapy?
The safety of Ketamine has been demonstrated repeatedly over the last five decades; however, not all patients are ideal candidates for this treatment. We will consult with your provider to see if Ketamine Therapy is right for you.
Can my primary doctor refer me?
Yes, you will need a referral from your provider. Your provider can reach out to us via email, phone, or fax to facilitate this process.
Why doesn't my regular doctor treat patients with Ketamine?
The majority of providers who have extensive experience with Ketamine work in anesthesia, emergency medicine, or psychiatry. Ketamine is a very safe medication, however, patient safety during the treatment requires a qualified and experienced provider who can respond to emergencies. Our clinic is highly specialized, and you will be treated and continuously monitored by an experienced anesthesia provider.
What age groups do you treat?
We treat patients who are at least 18 years old. We may consider treating younger patients based on our evaluation and patient’s condition.
How do I know Ketamine is safe?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has placed Ketamine on the list of the most essential medications, due to its benefits and wide margin of safety. Unlike other anesthesia or pain medications that decrease basic functions such as breathing and blood pressure, Ketamine preserves breathing, while stimulating heart rate and blood pressure. Research shows that Ketamine used in small doses via IV infusion does not lead to long-term side effects.
Can I develop bladder problems from Ketamine?
When administered in small doses by a qualified provider, Ketamine has not been shown to lead to long-term side effects, including bladder damage.
Ketamine-related bladder cystitis has been documented, but only in patients who abused it in very high doses.
Does Ketamine Therapy cause addiction?
Ketamine infusion treatments have been researched extensively, and there are no reports of patients developing addiction. Ketamine addiction is only documented in individuals who abuse it as a “party drug” in large amounts and without medical supervision.
What are the possible side effects?
Can I continue taking my medications?
Many patients seeking Ketamine treatment are receiving a variety of medications.
In order to maximize your response to Ketamine treatment, please let us know of any medications or illicit substances that you are using. Your safety is our main priority!
Can I eat on the day of my infusion?
It is safe for you to eat 6 hours prior to your infusion. We recommend a light meal to minimize nausea. Clear liquids are allowed 2 hours before your infusion. The following is the list of clear liquids: clear juice (such as apple or cranberry), water, soda, coffee (no milk or sugar), and tea.
How many treatments will I need?
Number of ketamine infusion treatments depends on your medical condition and medical history. We recommend six treatments over two to three weeks for mood disorders and 3-10 infusions for pain conditions.
How will I feel during my infusion?
During infusion the majority of patients are awake or in a dream – like state. You will most likely be able to respond to your surroundings. You are welcome to bring music, take a nap, or just close your eyes and relax.
Some individuals report sensitivity to light and sound, or lose track of time. You may experience some lightheadedness, or fuzzy/fluttery feeling. Patients very rarely report hallucinations.
How soon will I feel the effects from treatment?
It is important to note that not all patients have success with Ketamine treatment.
Studies show that Ketamine is effective in about 70-80% of patients who are treated for mood disorders. Occasionally, patients feel better soon after the first infusion, but the majority of patients report improvement after 2-3 treatments. For some patients, it takes the whole 6 infusions, and sometimes more to feel better. Some patients will notice a very slow improvement and for some the relief is quick and drastic.
Patients being treated for pain disorders do not feel relief as quickly. For some, relief does not come until a couple of weeks later.
Can I drive home?
Driving following Ketamine infusion is not safe. You will be required to have a responsible adult to take you home following your treatment (Uber is not acceptable). Driving for the rest of the day is not recommended.
We are able to provide a safe ride home for you post-infusion, upon request and for an additional charge.
What is maintenance therapy?
Following the initial series of IV ketamine treatment, we offer maintenance or a “booster” dose to our patients. Some patients report being symptom-free for a very long time, while some patients feel the need for more frequent treatments.
It is believed that initial treatment of Ketamine restores brain function and maintenance, or a “booster” dose is all that is required once patients start experiencing some symptoms again.
Does my insurance cover Ketamine Therapy?
Insurance coverage for Ketamine treatment varies. We suggest that you call your insurance carrier beforehand to find out if your policy will cover Ketamine treatment. Ketamine Wellness Infusions will provide billing codes which you can submit to your insurance carrier for reimbursement. We collect the fees at the time of your treatment. We accept cash and credit card payments. If you are interested in financing options, please let us know and we will help guide you through the process.
Why is Ketamine considered "off label"?
