What to Expect
Most patients find the infusion experience pleasant and relaxing, experiencing improvement in symptoms after only a handful of treatments.
What to Expect
First and foremost, it is important to know that Ketamine is a treatment, not a cure. We recommend six infusions within a two week period to our patients. After that, we recommend a single infusion after one week, then a single infusion two weeks after that. During the first year of treatment the typical patient is able to manage their depression with a single monthly infusion. Sometimes longer periods between infusions can be achieved.
Several Ketamine studies in individuals with refractory depression have shown a >70% positive response rate. That is similar to what we see in our patient population.
The duration of each appointment is approximately two hours. After check-in you will be taken to a private room and seated in a comfortable reclining chair. Please note, it is advised that you refrain from eating 6 hours prior to your appointment. Please arrange for someone to drive you to and from your first appointment. This is mandatory. Many patients use Uber or Lyft.
The IV Procedure
You will be given an oral medication to minimize any anxiety prior to receiving the IV. A cuff will be placed on your arm to monitor your blood pressure and sensors will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart. Then a small IV will be inserted in your arm, this is how we administer patient’s medication.
As the infusion begins, we’ll dim the lights and play your choice of relaxing ambient music, creating a calming environment for your treatment. You are welcome to bring your own music if you wish. Once treatment is underway you may choose to be left alone in the room or you are welcome to have a loved one sit with you. Be assured your provider and the medical assistant will continually monitor your condition and respond to any needs you may have during your session.
The Infusion Experience
The infusion itself lasts about one hour. The effects of the ketamine come on in a steady gradual way. Patients say that the experience of each infusion is different but there are some common sensations including:
Numbness and/or tingling
Sensation of "lightness" or floating
Feeling of being "centered" or "grounded"
Positive shift in anxiety/emotional tension
Intellectual detachment
Decreased awareness of your body
Visual and spacial distortions
Inability to perceive time
Talkativeness
Dizziness or nausea in rare cases
Most patients find the experience to be pleasant and relaxing and report an improvement in depressive symptoms within 1 to 24 hours of treatment. There is a 30 minute recovery time, during which you may feel drowsy or mildly disoriented.
Follow Up
It is recommended that patients undergo 6 infusions over a two-week period in order to maximize the beneficial effects of the drug. It is not recommended to vary from this treatment protocol but we can make some adjustments to fit your personal schedule. After the initial series of infusions further “booster” treatments are determined on a case-by-case basis but are usually needed anywhere from every 2 weeks to 3 months.
Cost
Infusion for Depression/Anxiety/PTSD:
Each of the first six infusion is $450. After that maintenance infusions cost $400.
Infusion for Pain:
Each 2 hour infusion is $600. Each 3 or 4 hour infusion is $800
10% Discount for military veterans and First Responders