Everything you need to know before hiring a ketamine clinic.
Ketamine infusion therapy involves receiving low, sub-anesthetic doses of ketamine intravenously in a clinical setting. Unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks to work, ketamine can produce rapid relief from depression symptoms — sometimes within hours or days. It is FDA-approved as an anesthetic; its use for depression is off-label (except for esketamine/Spravato, which is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression).
Ketamine has shown efficacy for treatment-resistant depression, bipolar depression, PTSD, OCD, suicidal ideation, anxiety disorders, and chronic pain conditions including fibromyalgia, CRPS/RSD, and neuropathic pain. Results vary by individual and condition.
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Find a ContractorThe standard initial protocol for depression is 6 infusions over 2–3 weeks. Many patients experience significant improvement by infusions 3–4. After the initial series, some patients maintain remission long-term; others benefit from periodic maintenance infusions (monthly or as needed).
IV ketamine infusions for psychiatric conditions are typically not covered by insurance, as the use is off-label. Esketamine (Spravato), the FDA-approved nasal spray, is more commonly covered by insurance with prior authorization. Out-of-pocket costs for IV ketamine range from $400–$800 per infusion.
During infusion, patients typically experience mild dissociation, visual distortions, altered perception of time, and a sense of floating or detachment. These effects are temporary and resolve within 30–60 minutes after the infusion ends. Clinics often provide eye masks and calming music. The experience is closely monitored by medical staff.
When administered in a clinical setting by licensed physicians, ketamine infusions are generally safe. Temporary side effects include dissociation, nausea, elevated blood pressure, and dizziness during infusion. Risks of abuse or addiction are low in a clinical context with proper patient screening and monitoring. Ketamine is not appropriate for patients with schizophrenia or active psychosis.
IV ketamine is delivered intravenously and achieves higher bioavailability. It is off-label for depression and not covered by most insurance. Spravato (esketamine) is a nasal spray that is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and MDD with suicidal ideation. Spravato is administered in a certified healthcare setting and has better insurance coverage. Both are ketamine-based but have different pharmacokinetics and regulatory status.
Response duration varies widely. Some patients experience weeks or months of relief after an initial series; others need maintenance infusions every 4–8 weeks. About 70% of treatment-resistant depression patients respond to ketamine, though remission may not be permanent without ongoing treatment or integration therapy.
Yes. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy or integration therapy — working with a therapist before and after infusions — improves outcomes and helps patients process insights that arise during treatment. Ketamine creates a window of neuroplasticity; psychotherapy can help harness this for lasting benefit.
Look for clinics staffed by board-certified anesthesiologists, psychiatrists, or other qualified physicians who are present during infusions. Verify that the clinic conducts a psychiatric evaluation before treatment and screens for contraindications. Ask about monitoring equipment, emergency protocols, and whether they collaborate with your existing mental health provider.