
Ketamine IV Infusion therapy

Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy
Find out if ketamine infusions are right for you. If you have chronic pain that has not responded to treatment, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Our specialists work with you to determine if IV ketamine infusions may help reduce your pain.
Mental health care providers have found that it can successfully treat some types of treatment-resistant mental health conditions. And pain researchers have learned that it delivers welcome relief for some types of chronic pain.
IV Ketamine infusion therapy is not the first line of treatment. We treat chronic pain that has failed all other treatment modalities. Patients that have IV ketamine infusions for mental health conditions must be referred by their current treating psychiatrist or mental health professional.

How Does it Work?
Ketamine acts as an inhibitor of the NMDA receptor (a pain receptor in the spinal cord) to interfere with pain transmission throughout the body. It disrupts the neurotransmitter (brain chemical) glutamate. Glutamate is involved with mood and pain recognition. IV Ketamine infusion is now used to treat symptoms of:
Chronic Pain Conditions
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
- Neuropathic Pain
- Nerve Pain
- Chronic Pain that has been unresponsive to all other treatments
- Migraine Headaches
Mental Health Conditions
- Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD)
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Bi-Polar Disorder (BPD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety Disorders
- Postpartum Depression (PPD)
- Postmenopausal Depression
- Adolescent Mental Health
- Geriatric Mental Health

Why Intravenous (IV) Ketamine?
IV infusion of ketamine is administered and carefully monitored by our medical professionals. Like IV vitamin infusions, it carries a low risk of adverse side effects. This is because when administered through IV, the amount of ketamine that enters your body is precisely controlled in low doses. This process allows for 100 percent absorption into the bloodstream because it bypasses other organs, such as the stomach or liver, preventing the breakdown of ketamine into less effective metabolites.
Ketamine is an FDA approved drug. However, ketamine IV infusion therapy is considered an off-label treatment for chronic pain and mental health conditions. There are multiple scientific articles and clinical trials reporting its efficacy when used to treat both chronic pain and mental health conditions. Many sources are currently working to seek FDA approval for these conditions.
We continue to provide treatments with positive outcomes as do multiple health care providers throughout the world. Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance carriers do not pay for this treatment. Ketamine infusions are an out-of-pocket expense. We are hopeful this will change soon.
Injured workers may receive insurance coverage with prior authorization as the guidelines for coverage are different for Workers’ Compensation insurance carriers. We treat injured workers from multiple states.

The Science Behind Ketamine Treatments
Ketamine’s therapeutic effects, especially in the realm of mental health, have intrigued researchers for years. At its core, ketamine operates as an NMDA receptor antagonist. By blocking these receptors, ketamine disrupts the typical neurotransmitter activity in the brain, leading to its anesthetic effects. However, when used in controlled, lower doses for mental health conditions, it promotes the release of a different set of neurotransmitters and growth factors. These molecules play a pivotal role in mood regulation and neural regeneration. This shift in brain chemistry can stimulate the growth of new neural connections, potentially “rewiring” parts of the brain that have been impacted by mental health disorders.

Preparation and Aftercare
Preparation for Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy
Dietary Considerations:
It’s advisable to eat a light meal a few hours before the treatment to prevent any feelings of nausea or discomfort during the infusion. Stay hydrated, but avoid excessive liquids right before the session to minimize the need for restroom breaks during the infusion.
Medications and Substances:
Avoid consuming alcohol or recreational drugs 24 hours before the session. Inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you’re currently taking to ensure there are no potential interactions with ketamine.
Comfort Measures:
Wear comfortable clothing to ensure you remain relaxed throughout the session. Consider bringing a calming playlist or a pair of headphones to help you relax during the treatment.
Transportation:
Since you might feel drowsy or slightly disoriented post-treatment, ensure you have a trusted person to drive you home. It’s not recommended to drive or use public transportation immediately after the session.
Aftercare Following Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy
Immediate Post-Treatment:
Rest and relaxation are key. It’s recommended to take the day off from work or strenuous activities.
Some patients might experience mild disorientation or dizziness immediately after the treatment. It’s essential to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours.
Diet and Hydration:
Stay hydrated to help flush out any residual medication and to aid in recovery. Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours post-treatment. Eat balanced meals. Some patients find that light, easily digestible foods are best immediately after treatment.
Mental and Emotional Care:
Reflect on your experience. Some patients find it helpful to journal their feelings post-treatment. Avoid making significant decisions or emotionally charged discussions for at least 24 hours .
Physical Activity:
Engage in light activities such as walking or gentle stretching. It can help with any residual stiffness or discomfort from lying still during the infusion. Listen to your body.

Safety & Side Effects of Ketamine Treatment
While Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy is generally considered safe, like all medical treatments, it’s not without potential side effects. Commonly reported side effects include:
- Mild disorientation or dizziness post-treatment
- Nausea or vomiting
- Increase in blood pressure and heart rate during the infusion
- Vivid dreams or nightmares
It’s crucial to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can provide guidance on managing and mitigating these effects.

Comparison with Other Treatments
Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy offers a unique approach compared to traditional treatments for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. Here’s a brief comparison:
Antidepressants: These are often the first line of treatment for depression. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain but can take weeks to show effects. Some patients might experience side effects or may not respond to these medications at all.
Psychotherapy: Talk therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, has proven effective for many individuals with depression and anxiety. It provides tools and strategies to cope but might require extended periods for noticeable change.
Ketamine Therapy: Offers rapid relief, often within hours. It’s especially beneficial for those who haven’t responded to traditional treatments. The mechanism of action, targeting the NMDA receptors and promoting neural growth, is distinct from other treatments.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy FAQs
What is Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy?
Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy is an innovative treatment where ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic and painkiller, is administered directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous drip. This method has been found effective in treating a range of conditions, including chronic pain, depression, and certain other mental health disorders. The therapy leverages ketamine’s unique properties to potentially provide relief where other treatments might have failed.
How is IV infusion different from other methods of ketamine administration?
Intravenous (IV) infusion is a method that ensures the drug is delivered directly and efficiently into the bloodstream, allowing for maximum absorption and consistent therapeutic effects. This direct delivery often results in a more immediate and potent response compared to other methods like nasal sprays or oral tablets, which must first pass through other systems in the body and might not provide the same level of consistency in effects.
How long does each ketamine infusion session last?
A typical ketamine infusion session lasts between 40 minutes to an hour, depending on the individual’s needs and the specific protocol followed. However, it’s essential to note that the entire appointment might take longer when considering the pre-treatment preparation, the infusion itself, and the post-treatment recovery and observation period.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions required varies based on individual needs, the severity of symptoms, and the specific condition being treated. While some patients might experience significant relief after just one or two sessions, others might benefit from a more extended series of treatments. Your healthcare provider will assess your response and work closely with you to determine the optimal treatment plan.
Are there any potential side effects of Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy?
While ketamine is generally well-tolerated, potential side effects can occur. These might include feelings of nausea, temporary dizziness, a slight increase in blood pressure, or experiencing vivid dreams or hallucinations during the infusion. It’s worth noting that most side effects are short-lived and tend to resolve shortly after the infusion concludes. Medical professionals closely monitor patients during the treatment to ensure their safety and comfort.
Can I combine ketamine therapy with other treatments or medications?
Absolutely. Many patients find it beneficial to continue with their current medications or therapies alongside ketamine treatments. However, it’s of paramount importance to keep your healthcare provider informed of all medications, supplements, and treatments you’re undergoing. This transparency ensures there are no adverse interactions and that you receive the most holistic care possible.
Is ketamine therapy addictive?
When used in a medical setting and under the careful supervision of trained professionals, ketamine has a low risk of addiction. That said, like all medications, it’s essential to use ketamine strictly as directed by a healthcare provider and to be aware of its properties.
How soon can I expect results after a ketamine infusion session?
The response to ketamine therapy can be quite rapid. Many patients report experiencing relief within hours of their initial infusion, especially when addressing symptoms of depression or anxiety. However, individual responses can vary, and some might require multiple sessions before noticing significant benefits.
Is there any follow-up or aftercare post-treatment?
Yes, post-treatment care is an integral part of the therapy process. After each session, patients are typically observed for a short period to ensure they’re feeling well before leaving the clinic. Many clinics also schedule follow-up appointments to assess the treatment’s effectiveness, address any concerns, and determine if additional sessions or adjustments are needed.

Related Articles

Ketamine – A Hopeful Treatment
During the past few years there has been a significant demand for the drug ketamine to treat both mental health and certain chronic pain conditions.