KETAMINE INFUSION TREATMENT: How it works

If you’re new to ketamine infusion therapy the concept may feel unfamiliar.  Here’s what the expect on your visit!

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Before the Infusion

Please have a friend or family member drive you to your appointment. (They will be required to drive you home after your treatment.)

Once you arrive at Ark Integrative Wellness you will be treated by our receiving nurse who will guide you through your treatment.

Allow a little time prior to your infusion to fill out a health history form and mental health assessment as well as other necessary forms, including a review of the discharge instructions.

During the Infusion

Our nurse will lead you to your room and help you get comfortable with a weighted blanket, noise cancelling headphones or other relaxation devices, should you choose.

She will start a small IV in your hand or arm and place you on a monitor to begin your ketamine infusion.

When the ketamine infusion is started you will be instructed to recline, relax, and close your eyes. The infusion will be administered slowly over a minimum of 40 minutes.

During that time, we will intermittently monitor your vital signs, while not disturbing your relaxation. 

The first 15-20 minutes you may have no noticeable effects. Halfway through the infusion most patients begin to experience feelings such as euphoria, floating, heightened perceptions, feeling disconnected, or in a dream state.

While uncommon, some patients may experience some anxiety, sweating, or a headache. Medications can be administered if those symptoms persist and/or become uncomfortable.

Any sensations relating to the infusion should fully dissipate within 30-60 minutes after the treatment.

After the Infusion

It is possible to notice mood effects as soon as one hour after your treatment, however typically effects are noticed 4-24 hours post-infusion.

If effective, there should be a perceptible difference in feeling less sad, more hopeful, with decreased thoughts of suicide, increased calmness and overall improvement of mood. 

For pain infusions, relief and improvement of symptoms typically occurs within hours of the infusion.

If you still have questions about Ketamine infusion treatment and how it works, , take a look at our FAQ page, or contact us.