Ketamine therapy is gaining popularity, growing from a surgical anesthetic and street drug to one of the most effective solutions for treatment-resistant depression. Since the FDA approval of esketamine (Spravato) in 2019, the growing use of IV ketamine has been gathering increased recognition for its powerful effects. In addiction to depression, it can also treat PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain.
If your doctor has recommended ketamine treatment, you may be ensure of what to expect. This article explains the process to ensure you are fully prepared.
What is Ketamine Treatment?
Administration
Ketamine cann be administered as a nasal spray ot IV treatment, as follows:
- Nasal Spray: A prescription medication typicall used in combination with oral medications to relieve treatment-resistant depression.
- Ketamine Infusion Therapy: Off-label, meaning it has not been FDA-approved; typically administered in clinical settings onnly.
According to a JnJ Medical Connect study, IV infusion therapy produces 54% success rates compared to 37% with nasal spray.
Treated Mental Health Conditions
Ketamine is typically offered to people who haven’t responded to two treatments for major depressive disorder. It can also treat other mental health disorders, like:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Chronic pain
- Suicidal thoughts
How It Differs From Typical Antidepressants
Unlike typical antipressants, which target serotonin and dopamine, ketamine acts as an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor agoinst, influecing the brain’s glutamate system. These alterations increase the brain’s neuroplasticity, allowing it to develop new connections, pottentialy minimizing feelings of anxiety and depression. Ketamine also works faster than traditional medications, with results often occurring after a single session.
A 2022 PubMed study reveals that a single dose of ketamine increased dentritic spine density and reduced depression within a day. however, ongoing effects are environment-contigent.
Ketamine vs. Typical Antidepressants Table
| Typical Antidepressants | Ketamine Therapy | |
| Onset of Action | 2-6 weeks | Hours to 24 hours |
| FDA Approved | Yes | Esketamine only |
| Treats Suicidal Ideation | Slowly, if at all | Rapid effect |
| Maintenance | Daily oral medication | Perioidic infusions |
| Insurance Coverage | Yes | Esketamine only |
| Requires Clinical Setting | No | Yes |
What Happens Before Your First Treatment
Before ketamine therapy begins, clinical professionals will conduct an in-depth analysis. They will want to know your physical and mental medical history, including any history of substance use disorder.
The proiveder will then offer informed consent, explaining off-label status, if necessary, alternatives, and side effects. Pre-session instructions are typically part of that consent and include:
- Not eating for at least six hours before infusion
- Not taking certain medications before infusion
- Having someone available to drive you home after treatment
What Ketamine Therapy Is Like
Ketamine is always administered in a private treatment room in a clinical setting. IV infussions typically take 40-60 minutes; intranasal therapies may be a bit shorter.
Providers typically create a shooting environment during treatment by using eye shades and music and guiding patients through the session.
How Does Ketamine Therapy Feel Like?
Patients often describe sessions as realxing or even euphoric. However, some have bad experiences as they relive negative experiences and emotions. An experienced provider can guide the sessions in a positive direction.
What Happens After a Typical Session?
Ketamine therapy has been shown to increase neuroplasticity, promoting new connections. As a result, individuals are often open to new emotions and experiences. However, the way they experience emotions can vary.
Therapy is necessary to promote a positive result. Cognitive-behavioral talk therapy is often integrated because it helps people experience emotions in a positive way. Even a discussion with a therapist can help.
After a session, most patients report feeling emotional clarity. However, ketamine therapy side effects like grogginess, cognitive fog, dissociative effects, and emotional rawness may linger. It is even possible to experience flatness and dread, which may dissipate in time.
Follow-Up Protocol
While treatment plans may vary, most patients receive six to eight doses over two to three weeks. After the initial stage of treatment is complete, they may continue therapy with monthly or quarterly treatment sessions. However, follow-up may be more intense, depending on the severity of the condition.
Who Isn’t a Good Candidate for Ketamine Therapy Sessions?
While ketamine therapy is generally safe, it is not recommended for people with the following conditions:
- Cardiovasculat Conditions: Ketamine stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, producing spikes in blood pressure that can be dangerous for people with cardiovascular conditions.
- Certain Psychiatric Disorders: The therapy can cause adverse effects in individuals with psychosis and schizophrenia. Bipolar disorder is more nuanced and should be carefully assessed before the application of ketamine assisted therapy.
- Substance Misuse: Illicit substances can increase ketamine’s negative side effects.
- Pregnancy and lactation: Ketamine has not been proven safe for people who are pregnant ot lactating.
- Medications: Certain medications can interact with ketamine, notably benzodiazepines and antipsychotics.
BNI Treatment Centers Offers Effective Treatment for Mental Health Symptoms
At BNI, we understand the intricacies of mental health conditions in teens. We take a customized aprroach, ensuring our therapies are suited to our clients’ lifestyle and recovery goals. Our academic support ensures students can get through our program without missing school.
Contact us to learn more about our treatment options.
FAQs
Is ketamine therapy covered by insurance?
Ketamine therapy nasal spray is typically covered by insurance as it is FDA-approved. IV ketamine therapy may not be covered.
Is it addictive?
While ketamine can be addictive, the tendency is much lower than that of other drugs. Additionally, it is administered in a clinical setting to prevent illicit use.
Will I hallucinate?
Hallucinations are not likely in the clinical sense. In other words, you probably won’t see or hear things that aren’t there. However, you may experience abstract colors, patterns, and vivid imagery.
How is this different from taking ketamine recreationally?
When taken recreationally, ketamine is typically administered in much higher doses in an uncontrolled setting. This varies from clinical administration, in which doses are relatively small and controlled.
How long do the effects last?
The acute effects of ketamine therapy typically last 30 to 60 minutes, while the therapeutic benefits last weeks to months.
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General Clinic FAQs
What conditions do BNI Clinics treat?
BNI Clinics evaluate and treat a wide range of neurological and mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, memory issues, migraines, sleep disorders, and brain-related performance concerns. Each patient receives a personalized care plan from licensed clinicians.
Who will be assessing or treating me?
All assessments and treatments at BNI Clinics are carried out by qualified, licensed healthcare professionals, including neurologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and certified therapists. Our team follows evidence-based guidelines and continues to undergo ongoing clinical training.
How does BNI diagnose brain-related conditions?
Diagnosis is done through a structured, clinical process that may include a physical exam, neurological evaluation, mental health screening, cognitive testing, and, when appropriate, advanced diagnostic tools. We use validated, research-backed methods aligned with global clinical standards.
Do I need a referral to visit BNI Clinics?
Most patients do not need a referral. You may schedule an appointment directly. However, some insurance plans may have referral requirements, and our team can guide you based on your coverage.
What happens during my first visit?
Your first appointment includes a detailed consultation with a clinician to review your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle factors, and goals. You will receive a clear explanation of any recommended tests, next steps, and treatment options.
Are the treatments at BNI Clinics evidence-based?
Yes. All therapies, medications, and clinical protocols offered at BNI Clinics follow evidence-based standards, supported by current research, clinical guidelines, and real-world patient outcomes.
Can BNI help if I have already tried treatments elsewhere?
Many patients come to BNI Clinics after trying other providers or treatment options. Our multidisciplinary team can review your past records, reassess your condition, and offer a more comprehensive or targeted care plan.
How long does treatment usually take?
Treatment duration varies based on the condition and severity. Some patients see improvement within weeks, while chronic or complex cases may require longer monitoring. Your clinician will outline a realistic timeline during your consultation.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. We follow all required medical privacy regulations, including HIPAA (if US-based). Your personal and medical information is securely stored and never shared without your consent.
Do BNI Clinics support ongoing care and follow-ups?
Yes. After your initial diagnosis and treatment plan, our clinicians schedule regular follow-ups to track progress, adjust treatment, and ensure long-term wellness.
