Ketamine Facts
FAQ
Popular Questions
Take a look at some science-backed answers to common questions about ketamine infusion.
Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic drug shown to be an effective treatment in managing symptoms of depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
While any medication may cause side effects, the dosages of ketamine that we use at Vital IV Infusions are associated with minimal side effects. Should they occur they are often short-lived, resolving in an average of 30 minutes.
The side effects can include dizziness, headache, blurred vision, and rarely, nausea.
However, if the patient feels any discomfort from the side effects, we have medication and comfort care to allay these effects.
Rest assured that our clinic is set up to provide maximum comfort, and a relaxing atmosphere while providing you with safety monitoring and individualized attention. Monitoring by our experienced anesthesia providers ensures a smooth ketamine experience, with minimal side effects.
Ketamine, unlike opioids, is not associated with any physically addictive properties.
All patients are welcome to self-refer. Our team of experts will provide a consultation to determine if ketamine therapy is right for you. Those patients suffering from mental health disorders, such as depression, OCD, severe anxiety will also have to be under the care of a mental health professional. Our team will work closely with your practitioner to ensure the best outcomes for your wellbeing.
Some patients report an improvement in mood and general wellbeing after only one treatment. For others, this change in mood occurs over the course of the treatments, some describe it as a fog being lifted. Typically, research has shown, that after the sixth to eighth treatment, patients feel a change in mood, improvement in daily functionality and a better general sense of wellbeing.
The use of ketamine for chronic pain and mental health disorders, although well researched, does not meet the extensive clinical trials traditionally required by insurance companies to justify coverage. However, individual insurance careers can vary in their coverage of ketamine, and we understand some patients have successfully secured some coverage for their treatment. We, therefore, recommend that patients contact their insurance company and discuss the possibility of coverage for ketamine infusions.
Ketamine infusions are not intended to replace your current medication regimen but to be used in conjunction with it. For this reason, you must continue your care with your primary care provider, and your primary mental health care provider, if applicable. If for some reason the infusions are ineffective, the protocol can be stopped immediately.
- You must be 18 years or older with no uncontrolled medical conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure) or cardiac disease. * With pediatrician and parental approval, we will consider treating adolescents.
- You must have a diagnosis of major depression, refractory depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and/or chronic pain, and be resistant to other treatments, such as medications.
- You must be under the care of a current provider treating you for your diagnosis.
- Patient with sleep apnea may be asked to bring their CPAP devices with them, and may be administered oxygen.
- Have no history of difficult IV insertions, and can sit comfortably for 1-4 hours.
We recommend doing 4-6 infusions for the best results. Payment will be received at the time of each infusion.
You must arrange for a ride from the clinic, you may not drive the day of your infusion.
You may have a light meal up to 4 hours in advance of the treatment, and clear liquids up to 2 hours prior to the treatment. Clear liquid examples include only water, black coffee, plain tea, or apple juice. Milk and creamer are not clear liquids.
The number of recommended ketamine or KAP sessions depends on your specific treatment needs. Generally, patients receiving ketamine treatment will need 6 to 8 sessions. For those struggling with chronic, treatment-resistant depression or severe suicidality, 6 or more sessions of ketamine or KAP treatment are often required to see sustained benefits. Patients challenged by chronic anxiety, OCD, or PTSD may require 8 or more sessions to find relief from their symptoms.
Some people may return for occasional booster sessions every few months to maintain these benefits. These numbers are an estimate and may vary from person to person based on your specific needs and treatment response over time.
We Always Take Care Of Our Clients Seriously
We provide effective treatment for various conditions, with the main goal to restore a feeling of normalcy to our minds and bodies.