FAQ

Pyschedelic medicines, like Ketamine, used for the treatment of mental wellness is considered an off-label use of this FDA approved drug. We follow best practices of administration of ketamine; the doses used during sessions are very low and calculated based on body weight. Our doctor, nurse practitioner or our clinical psychologist will be with you and your vitals will be closely monitored the entire duration of the session as well.

Most patients feel comfortably relaxed while they are receiving the infusion. The effects wear off within an hour or so afterward. We carefully assess your medical history and medication list before the treatment and will consult your primary care physician or mental health professional as needed. the IV infusion will be administered at a very low dose and over an extended period of time. The first 15-20 minutes are typically uneventful with no noticeable effects; however, within 20 minutes or so, people tend to notice some blurring of vision, a feeling of "lightness," "floating," or intoxication, and sometimes some numbness in the toes or area around the mouth. Over the course of the next 20-minute period, these feelings tend to build, so that the medicine is at the peak of its intensity at the very end. 

Other common feelings include euphoria, talkativeness, a feeling of being "disconnected" or in a dream, heightened perceptions (background noise may seem louder, colors or lights are more intense), and a feeling that people often describe as "weird, odd, different, or interesting." Less commonly, people may experience nausea and rarely hallucinations. These feelings start to subside approximately 10-15 minutes after the medicine is done and last for a total of 45-50 minutes. Most people can expect to be with us for about 90 minutes total, with no side effects beyond your release from our care and none between treatments. Most adverse effects can easily be treated by adjusting the rate of your infusion to make your experience pleasant and calming. 

The side effects of the low dose protocol ketamine infusions are minimal and will only last about an hour or two, but may include mild drowsiness, nausea, and increased blood pressure. Less common side effects include vivid dreams or agitation, and these can be controlled by adjusting the dosage. Most clients don't mind the relaxed feeling they experience during the infusion.

In past years, ketamine has received a stigma of being a "party drug" or "street drug," and some may be concerned about the potential for abuse or addiction. Academic research and clinical experience have shown that the very low dosing and adherence to protocols dismiss the risk of addiction.

Medical conditions that are not well managed would disqualify you from any infusion treatment. Uncontrolled high blood pressure, any serious cardiac or respiratory condition, untreated thyroid disease, a current manic phase of bipolar and active psychosis (hallucinations/delusions) need to be discussed with your clinician to avoid any potential complications. We will review your medical history and perform a brief physical assessment to ensure this line of treatment has little to no risk to your physical or mental health.

Your current medications will be evaluated for your safety and optimal experience. Some medications have been shown to interfere with or dampen the effectiveness of the infusion. These medications include benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Ativan, Versed, Valium, and Clonazepam), risperidone (Risperdal), and olanzapine (Zyprexa). These medications may not need to be stopped, but the dose leading up to infusion therapy and for a short period after may need to be adjusted. Further discussion with your primary care provider will be beneficial.