FAQ
What is an infusion?
It is a very simple procedure, an IV will be started and normal saline mixed with the medication will be slowly administered to you.
What conditions can you treat?
Persons with severe depression, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS/RSD), debilitating fibromyalgia, intractable headaches.
Is Infusion Therapy Right for me?
If you suffer from severe depression that has not responded to medication or other traditional treatment modalities, then infusion therapy may be an option for you. The procedure is easy to administer and essentially pain free. There will be an initial evaluation with your doctor to see if infusion therapy is right for you.
What is ketamine?
Ketamine is an FDA approved anesthetic drug that has been used in hospitals worldwide since the 1960s. In the last few years numerous articles in medical journals have shown efficacy in using ketamine in sub-anesthetic doses to treat depression and some chronic pain syndromes. Ketamine's anesthetic effects are mediated by interactions with a member of the glutamate receptor family, the NMDA receptor. It interacts with other receptors as well, including the AMPA receptor, thought to be an important component of its antidepressant effects
How long is the infusion?
Infusions will be 1 hour. After the infusion you will stay for another 30 minutes to recover. If you have CRPS/RSD your infusion will be longer, usually 3-4 hours
What to expect during the infusion?
Some possible side-effects include dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, and hallucinations, these are rare and dose related, they can be treated immediately to make your experience as pleasant as possible. Within 15 minutes of ending the infusion your mind will be clear. There are no delayed “flashbacks.”
Will I get better?
It is possible to undergo ketamine infusion therapy and have no beneficial effect. We cannot predict who will respond to ketamine, but statistically 2 out of 3 patients do show a dramatic improvement in their mood and 3 out of 4 will cease to have suicide ideation.
Will I be awake?
Yes, the dose that we use will not put you to sleep.
Can I get addicted?
Because it is used as a “party drug” there is a legitimate worry about addiction potential. Studies and clinical experience have found that in the very low doses used, medical setting, lack of access at home, and infrequent dosing, there is virtually no potential for addiction or abuse.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, we require a note from your treating provider. You will be seen for an initial consultation, all your documents/labs will be reviewed and we will determine if you are a candidate for IV infusions.
Do I need to stop my medications?
We recommend that you don’t take Benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Ativan, Valium, or Klonopin, and amphetamine-based stimulants, such as Adderall or Ritalin the day of treatment.
What medical conditions will exclude me from ketamine treatment?
Any medical condition that is not well managed would preclude you from treatment. Uncontrolled high blood pressure, or any serious cardiac or respiratory conditions need to be disclosed to avoid complications.
How many infusion will I need?
The original studies were done by administering 6 infusions with 14 day period.
We recommend staying as close to this protocol as possible but we will customize the treatments to help meet your personal and travel needs. If you have a favorable response to the first two infusions, a total of six is recommended.
Do I need someone with me?
You will need a responsible adult to take you home. You will not be able to drive for 12 hours after the infusion.
Can I eat before the infusion?
We require that you don’t eat any solid food 8 hours before your infusion, you are allowed to have clear liquids such as water, clear broth, apple juice or clear tea/coffee (no milk or leaves) up to 2 hours prior to your appointment.
Will my insurance cover or reimburse me?
Ketamine infusions are not covered by insurance. However, we do provide a receipt for services at the
time of your appointment. While we cannot guarantee any reimbursement, some of our patients with “out of network” benefits have been able to recoup a portion of their out of pocket costs.