Ketamine FAQs

Learn about ketamine infusion and what to expect during your appointment.

What is ketamine?

Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that’s been used worldwide since the 1970’s. With its antidepressant and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, ketamine has been a breakthrough in the treatment of mood disorders and pain. Ketamine promotes neuroplasticity, which means that it helps the brain form connections (improving overall brain function and mental health). Ketamine infusion therapy can be a promising option for treatment, as many patients have experienced satisfactory results. Results can last for several weeks before requiring maintenance or booster infusions.

What to expect with ketamine infusion therapy

Ketamine therapy at Zenfusions is administered through IV by a licensed medical provider. Infusions are about 45 minutes long. Throughout your treatment, our providers check your vitals and monitor you to ensure you’re safe and comfortable.

The infusion experience is quiet and peaceful. We dim the lights, provide blankets, and take care to be quiet when we enter and exit your private treatment room. You’re welcome to play calming music and bring a support person to stay with you through your infusion. You can also bring your therapist to help guide your experience.

What does ketamine infusion feel like?

The experience varies from person to person. Some patients describe it as a dissociative experience (or an out of body feeling) while others describe having dreams or seeing visions. It is not uncommon to feel strong emotions or fall asleep during ketamine treatment.

Are there side effects?

Low-dose ketamine affects every person differently. Ketamine infusion after effects may include:

Increased heart rate
Increased blood pressure
Nausea or vomiting
Visual hallucinations
Mild sedation or drowsiness
Headaches
Dizziness
Blurry vision

Our providers monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and any symptoms throughout your treatment and are equipped for medical intervention if needed.

What can I expect after my ketamine infusion?

Many patients start feeling “back to normal” about 10 minutes after their infusion. After your infusion, we check vitals, monitor symptoms, and provide you with discharge instructions. You will go home with the driver you brought to your appointment. Plan to speak with your therapist within a few days to unpack your experience.

Because of ketamine’s mildly sedative properties, you’ll follow similar instructions as what you might receive after having surgery. You should not drive a vehicle, operate machinery, lift anything heavy, or make important decisions within 24 hours after treatment.

How many treatments are needed?

Patients receiving ketamine infusion for mood disorders get 6 treatments over a 2-3 week period. Patients with chronic pain start with one session and receive a personalized treatment plan based on how the medication affects their symptoms.

Getting started with Zenfusions

Get common questions answered before you reach out.

Do I qualify?

To be a candidate for ketamine infusion, you must be diagnosed with chronic pain or a mood disorder. You should be able to demonstrate a history of traditional treatment methods, as ketamine is meant to be an alternative option after trying conventional approaches.

Certain risk factors increase your chances of experiencing adverse effects. Risk factors include:

Uncontrolled hypertension or unstable heart disease
Raised intracranial or intraocular pressure
Psychosis, schizophrenia, or current mania
History of brain bleed or aneurysm
Active or recent substance abuse
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
IV access difficulty
Prior adverse reaction to ketamine
History of cystitis
Acute suicidal ideations

Unsure if you’re a candidate for ketamine treatment? Our providers can help you find out if ketamine is an option. Reach out to us.

Do I need a referral?

No, you do not need a referral from any licensed healthcare provider. You need to meet the qualifications and complete a mental health evaluation to be eligible.

What is the cost of ketamine infusion?

Infusions for mood disorder management cost $1650 for packages of 6 sessions. Chronic pain management sessions are longer and cost $800 per session. While most insurances don’t cover ketamine, we offer financing options for help paying for ketamine infusion.

How do I get started?

Reach out to us to request a free phone consultation with a provider. After your consultation, we review your medical record, including a psychiatric evaluation. Once we ensure you’re a candidate for treatment, we schedule your first appointment.

Speak with a provider

Learn more about ketamine infusion therapy. Request a free consultation to get all of your questions answered.

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