Ketamine FAQs

Absolutely. Ketamine has been used safely for decades in emergency rooms, operating rooms, and in the military around the world. We have extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of ketamine and know how to administer it carefully. The low dose is given as a slow infusion so you remain awake.

As we are expert anesthesia providers, you can trust that you are in good hands. We vigilantly monitor your infusions and know how to manage the extremely rare event of a complication. When administered by a highly trained anesthesia provider, ketamine therapy is a safe and effective treatment for mood disorders and chronic pain.

Ketamine is approved by the FDA for use as an anesthetic and analgesic in the setting of operating rooms and emergency departments. Outpatient ketamine treatment for depression, along with PTSD, anxiety, OCD, postpartum depression, and bipolar disorder are not approved by the FDA. When it is used in this way, it is considered an “off-label” use of the medicine.

Ketamine therapy has been shown to be effective for people suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and drug and alcohol withdrawal.

A meta-analysis of multiple research studies has demonstrated that 70% or more of treatment-resistant patients will experience significant symptom relief after receiving the initial round of six low-dose infusions. However, even with such a high success rate, it is important to note that ketamine therapy does not work for everyone.

Ketamine has been shown to be extremely effective in providing relief of chronic nerve pain. It is a potent analgesic but has a different mechanism of action compared to opioids. Ketamine therapy can help patients significantly decrease their opioid requirements, while some patients will no longer require opioids at all.

While the majority of patients will experience notable symptom relief after their first infusion, others may experience a more gradual improvement. This is a dramatic difference compared to the typical 6-8 week onset of most oral antidepressant medications. Our pain patients usually experience some symptom relief after their first infusion series.

Every patient is unique. The duration of relief between infusions varies from person to person. Some patients will have relief for one to two months, while others have longer-lasting relief of six to three months. They are available as you feel they are needed. This is why ongoing mood monitoring is so important.

Ketamine infusions are extremely well tolerated. It is possible, though uncommon, to experience dizziness or mild nausea. We have IV anti-nausea medications that we can give you if you need them at any time. 

For your safety, do not eat any solid foods for at least six hours prior to your treatment. However, you can have clear liquids (water, tea, coffee, clear juice, etc.) up to two hours prior to your treatment.

We understand that financing may be a concern for you in elevating your mental health and chronic pain. That’s why our team is committed to offering affordable ketamine infusions in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. 

Some patients may have suffered a poor ketamine experience or had their treatment discontinued, unfortunately. It’s heartbreaking to watch struggling people not receive the care they need and deserve. If you fall into this category, we’d like to offer a 10% discount on induction infusions and a 10% discount on your first two booster infusions.

Our practice also offers a 10% discount on ketamine infusions for veterans, first-responders, and front-line workers. We appreciate your service and value the contribution you’ve brought to our nation and community.

In addition, you’ll also have access to exclusive financing when you receive ketamine treatment through Elevate. We’re happy to answer additional questions about cost by giving us a call or filling out a quick online form.

Unless otherwise specified by your doctor, you should continue to take your regular medications. We will collaborate with your provider to guide you through any changes to your medication regimen.

If you prefer to bring someone, they are welcome, but you do not need anyone to accompany you. If you do bring someone, they are welcome to wait in the waiting room or join you in the infusion room. However, even if you arrive alone, you will still require a ride home and will not be able to drive a car for the rest of the day.

Ketamine works in an entirely different way compared to common antidepressant medications. It inhibits NMDA receptors in your brain and leads to increased neuronal activity and the formation of new neuronal connections. This is also why results are seen so much faster with ketamine therapy. Traditional antidepressants take a long time to start working as it takes time for new neurons to form. Ketamine, on the other hand, works by increasing communication between existing neurons.

No, it is not safe to drive on the day of treatment. You will need a ride home planned out beforehand by either a family member or a friend. We do not allow our patients to have rides home from ride-sharing services.

We recommend getting your treatments on a day when you are not working. You can resume normal function the following day.

Yes, our clinic offers an affordable financing option through Advance Care Card. As a third-party partner of Elevate Infusion Therapy, they can help you pay for a ketamine series and booster infusions not covered by insurance. Advance Care can quickly support you with finances to elevate your physical and mental health.