Ketamine Infusion
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine was originally approved by the FDA in 1970 as an anesthetic agent and was found to produce a unique effect termed “dissociative anesthesia”. Historically Ketamine has been used in a wide variety of settings and more recently has gained recognition as a breakthrough off-label treatment for certain treatment resistant mood disorders.
How does Ketamine work?
Ketamine targets the brain differently than most traditional antidepressants. Here’s how it helps:
- Acts on the NMDA receptor, unlike many antidepressants that target serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine.
- First shown in the 1990s to have antidepressant potential in animal models through NMDA receptor involvement.
- Demonstrated rapid effects in human studies about a decade later, especially in patients with major depressive disorder.
- Repairs damaged neural connections often compromised in chronic depression.
- Stimulates neuroplasticity, helping the brain form and strengthen new, healthier connections.
- Disrupts negative thought patterns, creating space for new mental and emotional habits.
Who is a good candidate for IV Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine infusion therapy may be a good option for patients suffering from treatment resistant depression, PTSD, certain types of anxiety, and have not had significant relief with traditional prescription medication, psychotherapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation, Spravato or other traditional treatment modalities.
How is Our Approach Different?
Ketamine infusions are administered through an IV and precisely tailored and optimized based on computer modeling of target blood level concentrations. Each infusion is monitored and adjusted based on psychological and physiological response. Our infusion protocol follows guidelines as recommended by the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
What are the treatments like?
At Elevate Health, your Ketamine infusion is closely supervised from start to finish.
Before Infusion
- Do not eat or drink for several hours prior to your appointment.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the treatment, as you will not be able to drive yourself.
During Infusion
- Infusions take place in a comfortable, private suite within our clinic.
- You’ll relax in a recliner while an IV is placed.
- The infusion lasts approximately 40 minutes.
- You will remain conscious and be closely monitored throughout the session.
- Most patients describe the experience as calming and pleasant.
- Some may experience dissociative symptoms, such as feeling detached or dreamy—these are usually mild and temporary.
After Infusion
- You may feel relaxed, drowsy, or lightheaded after the session.
- Common short-term side effects include nausea, blurred vision, dizziness
- You’ll be released once our staff confirms you’re stable, and you’ll need a ride home.
How many infusions will I need?
We recommend an initial series of six infusions over the course of two to three weeks. After the initial series periodic maintenance infusions are generally required to maintain optimal results. The frequency of maintenance infusions varies from patient to patient and is typically determined by response and durability.
What is the cost of an infusion?
Does insurance cover the cost of the infusions?
Ketamine infusions are not covered by insurance. Our clinic has a contract with the VA that provides Ketamine infusions to our veterans who are currently patients of the VA system. You must have a referral from your VA Mental Health provider prior to beginning treatments.
Ready to Begin?
Talk to your provider or contact us today to schedule a consultation.