Ketamine Infusion Therapy for Chronic Pain and Depression

Ketamine, first synthesized in 1962 as an anesthetic, functions by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain. This mechanism induces a state known as “dissociative anesthesia,” characterized by altered perceptions of light and sound and a sense of detachment from oneself or the surroundings. Approved by the FDA in 1970 for human use, ketamine was recognized for its potent pain-relieving properties and its ability to maintain respiratory and cardiac function during anesthesia. In recent years, low-dose ketamine infusions have shown remarkable potential in providing rapid relief for individuals with severe, treatment-resistant mental health disorders and chronic pain conditions.

Ketamine infusions have demonstrated effectiveness in addressing a range of conditions. Among the conditions that can benefit from Ketamine treatment are:

Ketamine is not a cure but a highly effective and fast-acting treatment, offering relief to 70-80% of individuals with treatment-resistant conditions. Its effectiveness is particularly enhanced when combined with other therapeutic approaches, such as psychotherapy, counseling, meditation, journaling, or self-reflection. Patients undergoing Ketamine infusion therapy should continue working with their primary mental health or pain care provider throughout the treatment process.

Ketamine administered as a single infusion can provide temporary symptom relief lasting from a few hours to a few days. Research indicates that completing a series of infusions over two weeks can result in longer-lasting relief, extending from several weeks to a few months. When symptoms reappear, patients can return for a single booster infusion.

For mental health conditions, the standard treatment involves six 40-minute infusions over a two to three-week period. In contrast, chronic pain conditions typically require 2–4 hour infusions delivered consecutively over three to five days. After completing the initial treatment series, patients may schedule booster infusions as needed to manage recurring symptoms.

Ketamine is classified as a “dissociative” anesthetic, often described as creating a sensation similar to being in a vivid dream. It’s essential to arrive at your session prepared for this normal and expected experience, knowing that you are completely safe. Our staff will be on hand to support and guide you, helping you reorient as needed. If necessary, they can administer a calming medication called Versed (Midazolam).

Many individuals notice heightened sensitivity to light and sound during the infusion. To ensure your comfort, the lights will be dimmed, and you will be provided with noise-canceling headphones. These headphones can connect to your phone via Bluetooth before your session, allowing you to listen to music of your choice. We recommend preparing a playlist of familiar and soothing music ahead of time.

Some people may experience nausea or vomiting during the infusion. If you are prone to these symptoms or have a history of motion sickness, please inform your provider. They can administer anti-nausea medication before or during your treatment to help manage these effects.

When undergoing a procedure involving an anesthetic agent, it’s crucial to follow specific eating and drinking restrictions to minimize the risk of nausea or vomiting during or after the infusion.

Anesthetics can impair protective reflexes, increasing the risk of aspiration (vomit entering the lungs), which may lead to serious complications like pneumonia and hospitalization. Therefore, we strictly enforce these guidelines.

• Stop eating: At least 6 hours before your scheduled infusion.
• Stop drinking: At least 2 hours prior.
• You may consume clear liquids (e.g., water, clear soda, jello, or black coffee) up to 2 hours before the infusion. We recommend drinking a high-carbohydrate clear liquid, such as Gatorade or coconut water, 2–3 hours before the procedure.
• Avoid: All items in your mouth (e.g., gum, candy, or chewing tobacco) within 2 hours of your infusion.

You may need to undergo lab tests before your infusion to check liver function and electrolyte levels.

• Continue taking your regularly scheduled medications on the morning of your infusion.
• If instructed, discontinue long-acting benzodiazepines (e.g., Klonopin, Valium, or Xanax) as they may reduce the effectiveness of the infusion.

• Positive mindset: Helps reduce the risk of discomfort from dissociation.
• Day before infusion:
• Limit social media usage.
• Watch uplifting TV shows or movies. Avoid news or intense content.
• Practice meditation or visualization techniques to promote relaxation.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Choose short sleeves or clothing with sleeves that can be rolled above the elbows for IV access. While the IV is typically placed in your hand, access may sometimes be needed via the elbow crease.

We encourage you to bring personal items to help you feel at ease. While most items can be provided if needed, you might consider bringing:

• A music player or cell phone (set to silent) for listening to music.
• Headphones or an eye mask.
• Sunglasses (to reduce light sensitivity after the infusion).
• A soft blanket or pillow (regular or neck).
• Comfortable shoes.

Following these instructions will help ensure a safe and comfortable infusion experience.

On the day of your procedure, please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to allow time for completing any necessary paperwork. Once the paperwork is finished, a staff member will escort you to a private room. We recommend using the restroom at this point, as you will not be able to do so once your infusion begins.

In your room, you can take off your shoes and relax in one of our powered recliners, which feature optional heat and massage functions. A nurse will attach a blood pressure cuff to your arm or forearm, a pulse oximeter to your finger to measure oxygen levels, and, if you have a cardiac history, EKG patches to monitor your heart rhythm and rate.

You’ll have a few moments to set up your music or visual preferences while we prepare your infusion. Once ready, an intravenous (IV) catheter will be inserted into a vein in your hand or arm, and the infusion will begin. For mental health treatments, the infusion typically lasts 45 minutes, while chronic pain infusions may take 2-4 hours. You’re welcome to bring a family member, friend, or psychotherapist/counselor for support. Emotional support animals are also permitted, provided they are well-trained, quiet, and do not disrupt staff or other patients.

Throughout the infusion, a staff member will check on you at regular intervals to monitor your vital signs and may ask simple questions to assess your orientation and provide reassurance.

After your infusion is complete, you will be monitored until your vital signs are stable, you are alert, and steady on your feet. This process typically takes 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how quickly your body processes the medication.

As you begin to move around, you might experience slight dizziness or lightheadedness, which should gradually ease within 2-3 hours. Although you may not feel hungry, we recommend having a protein shake and drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home. Alternatively, you can use ride services like Uber or Lyft, in which case a staff member will escort you to the vehicle.

The cost of treatment may vary based on factors such as the condition being treated, the duration and dosage of the infusion, and the number of infusions required. While low-dose Ketamine Infusions have been proven to be a safe and effective treatment for many resistant conditions, they remain off-label use and are typically not covered by insurance. As such, payment in full is required at the time of service. However, we are happy to assist with submitting a claim to your insurance company, and if we receive reimbursement, we will apply the amount to your next infusion or issue a refund.

We also offer 0% interest financing for up to 14 months through our partner, Advanced Care. Most individuals are approved instantly.

If financing through Advanced Care is not an option for you, please share the denial details, and we will collaborate with you to find a suitable payment arrangement.

We are also pleased to offer a 15% discount to all veterans and first responders.