Frequently Asked Questions
Ketamine Infusion Process
Consultation
Dive into the specifics of our ketamine therapy. We'll work with you to understand your individual requirements, creatively crafting the dosage and treatment plan to effectively tackle PTSD, depression, and anxiety following an initial assessment.
Schedule Your Appointment
Easily arrange infusion sessions that suit your schedule. We offer flexible timing options to ensure you receive treatment at your convenience, minimizing disruptions to your daily routine. Plan your therapy journey at times that align with your personal obligations.
Begin Ketamine Infusion
Embark on our expert-led two-week therapy in a serene environment tailored just for you. Indulge in your choice of calming music and soft lighting, designed to foster a restful experience. Each session is aimed at enhancing your sense of wellbeing, leaving you rejuvenated and energized post-treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a well-established anesthetic, first developed in 1962, and is derived from phencyclidine. It works by blocking the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which affects the brain’s neurotransmitter glutamate. This makes it useful for a variety of conditions, from anesthesia to managing chronic pain and migraines.
Listed as an essential medicine by the World Health Organization, ketamine has been safely used in medical settings for over 30 years. It is especially beneficial in treating conditions like Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Over the past two decades, research has shown that low doses of intravenous ketamine can provide a rapid antidepressant effect.
How does ketamine help with depression?
While the exact way ketamine treats depression isn’t fully understood, studies suggest that it works by blocking NMDA receptors, which increases the production of synaptic proteins in the prefrontal cortex—a key area of the brain responsible for regulating mood. This process not only turns on and off certain brain connections but also promotes the formation of new synapses, which is believed to contribute to the fast-acting relief from depression.
What are the side effects of ketamine treatment?
Common side effects include mild headaches, anxiety, nausea, dizziness, and disorientation. These effects are usually short-lived and subside shortly after the infusion.
Can I return to work after my infusion?
After your first infusion, we recommend that you take the rest of the day to relax. It’s common to feel tired or fatigued afterward, so giving yourself time to rest is important.
How long do the effects last?
The relief from ketamine infusions varies from person to person. Many patients notice improvements in mood and function within a few days or weeks. While some experience immediate relief after the first infusion, this is often temporary. A full course of six infusions is needed for more lasting results.
Is Ketamine safe?
Yes, ketamine is very safe when administered in a controlled medical environment by trained professionals following established protocols. However, recreational use of ketamine or its use outside of a medical setting can be dangerous and is not recommended.
Is this treatment covered by insurance?
Unfortunately, ketamine therapy is not covered by insurance. At Fresh Start Ketamine, we accept cash, credit cards, money orders, HSA accounts, and personal checks.
We also offer financing options through Advance Care. You can learn more at Advance Care.
Do I need a designated driver, or can I drive myself?
You will need a driver for every infusion. We require all patients to sign a waiver agreeing not to drive or operate a vehicle for at least 12 hours after their infusion. This is to ensure your safety, as ketamine is a controlled substance.
What is the success rate in treating depression?
Research studies indicate that up to 80% of people respond well to ketamine infusions as a depression or anxiety treatment. While ketamine’s effects often last a few weeks, some people can experience months of relief.
Do I need a referral from my primary care physician?
No, any licensed health care professional or physician can refer you.
Are there any specific medical conditions that would prevent me from receiving treatment?
Ketamine infusion therapy is not indicated for patients diagnosed with psychosis. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, cardiac, and/or pulmonary issues it may be necessary for your primary care physician to provide a medical clearance before beginning your ketamine infusions.
Can I eat and/or drink prior to my infusion?
We ask that patients do not eat 4 hours prior to their infusion. You may drink. Just remember nausea is a common side effect.
Will I sleep during the procedure?
No. The dose of ketamine you will receive does not cause sleep.
Will someone be checking on me?
Although you are in a private room for your comfort the staff will check on each patient every 15 minutes during their time in the office.
What is the infusion process like?
Ketamine is administered intravenously very slowly. 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 will return to normal.
Should I be concerned about any risks of addiction with ketamine therapy?
No, ketamine has been proven safe. 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.
Will I be required to stop taking my psychiatric medications?
No, there is no need to stop any of the medications you are currently taking.
Are there any medications that can interfere with ketamine treatment?
Patients should not take stimulants on the day of their infusion.