Ketamine, which was first developed in 1962, is an anesthetic agent approved by the FDA. It has been widely used for inducing general anesthesia in children, adults, and animals during surgical procedures. Due to its excellent safety profile, ketamine is commonly used in pediatric anesthesia. However, it has recently been found to be highly effective in treating various conditions such as depression, PTSD, and fibromyalgia.
According to research studies, infusions of ketamine to treat depression can be effective for 60-80% of individuals. Although the effects of ketamine usually last for several weeks, some people can remain depression-free for months.
Ketamine works through a distinct mechanism of action, unlike any other antidepressant medication. While the exact mechanism by which ketamine relieves depression is still being investigated, it has been found to act on a neurotransmitter called glutamate.
This results in the production of a crucial growth factor that aids in the restoration of damaged neurons in the brain caused by stress and mental illness. As a result, ketamine can improve mood within hours or days, and also facilitate the regeneration of nerve cells over time.
Ketamine infusion therapy is not recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with psychosis. Additionally, if you have pre-existing high blood pressure, or cardiac and/or pulmonary conditions, it may be necessary to obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician before initiating ketamine infusions.
This results in the production of a crucial growth factor that aids in the restoration of damaged neurons in the brain caused by stress and mental illness. As a result, ketamine can improve mood within hours or days, and also facilitate the regeneration of nerve cells over time.
To prepare for your ketamine infusion, please refrain from consuming any solid foods and/or milk for at least 6 hours before your scheduled appointment. However, clear liquids such as water, fruit juices without pulp, carbonated beverages, clear tea, and black coffee can be consumed up to 2 hours before your infusion. It is imperative that you avoid consuming alcohol or using any illicit drugs, as they can be extremely dangerous when combined with ketamine.
No. The dose of ketamine you will receive does not cause any loss of consciousness. However, patients are welcome to take a nap.
Ketamine is administered intravenously very slowly over 45 minutes. At the start of the infusion, you may not have noticeable effects, but as the infusion progresses, you may encounter a feeling of “lightness” or “floating,” which for some feels as a “weight being lifted off their shoulders.” Most patients describe mild dissociative symptoms that are generally well tolerated. You will be monitored throughout the infusion and we are prepared to treat any unpleasant side effects during the procedure. Within 15 minutes of completing the infusion, you will start to regain your senses and your thinking will return to normal.
The effects of a single infusion typically last up to two weeks. After a series of six infusions, some people could remain symptom free for several months. We also offer the option of booster infusions which can be given monthly or a few times per year as needed.
Patients generally should not take benzodiazepines or any prescribed narcotics on the day of their infusion, though this is up to the provider’s discretion.
No, there is no need to stop any of the medications you are currently taking.
No, ketamine has been proven safe in humans. It has been used for years as a surgical anesthetic in children and in trauma management. Although it has been abused recreationally at much higher doses as a club drug, there is no evidence that ketamine is addictive. In addition, ketamine will be administered under medical supervision at subanesthetic doses.
It is suggested to undergo six to eight infusions, depending on the diagnosis, to fully harness the benefits of ketamine. The gradual repair and development of new nerve cells can result in sustained alleviation of symptoms. Nevertheless, the overall duration of treatment varies according to each person’s specific situation.
Tell your provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking, including any history of substance use or mental health disorders. Be sure to mention if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
SPRAVATO® is FDA-approved, intranasal esketamine, with a defined dosage and insurance coverage. IV ketamine is administered off-label and typically paid out-of-pocket.
No. SPRAVATO® must be administered in a certified treatment center under medical supervision due to potential side effects and required monitoring.
SPRAVATO® is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Talk to your healthcare provider about risks and alternative treatments.
You should not use SPRAVATO® if you have a history of aneurysms, bleeding in the brain, or allergic reactions to esketamine. It’s also not suitable for individuals with certain substance use disorders.
Your provider will monitor your mood, behavior, and overall mental health across sessions to evaluate progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
It is very important to make every effort to stay on the treatment plan that you and your healthcare provider have made. However, if you do miss a treatment, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss how to get back on track. You may need to reschedule missed appointments, receive an additional treatment, or make other adjustments. Your provider may decide to change your dose or dosing frequency.
Yes. Keep all members of your healthcare team informed about your SPRAVATO® treatment to avoid medication interactions and ensure coordinated care.
Possibly, but your blood pressure must be carefully monitored before and after treatment. Your provider will determine if SPRAVATO® is appropriate for you.
Yes. SPRAVATO® can interact with sedatives, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and other medications. Inform your provider about everything you’re taking.
You should avoid eating for at least 2 hours and drinking liquids for 30 minutes before treatment to reduce the risk of nausea.
Avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions for the rest of the day. Arrange for someone to drive you home.
No. You must not drive or operate heavy machinery until the next day after a restful sleep.
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