KETAMINE INFUSIONS

What is Ketamine ? 

Ketamine was developed in the 1960’s as an anesthetic for surgical procedures. The drug is known to affect the mind with rapid acting antidepressant and anti- anxiety effects. Used in low sub anesthetic doses ketamine can alter levels of glutamate (a chemical messenger) in the brain which can result in new neural connections. The brain becomes more adaptable and creates new pathways, giving patients the opportunity to develop more positive thoughts and feelings. .Researchers started looking into it as a treatment for mental health issues like depression. 

What is Ketamine InfusionTherapy? 

Ketamine therapy is a treatment for depression, anxiety and PTSD  which have not responded to other treatments like conventional medications or psychotherapy. It is NOT a comprehensive treatment for depression, anxiety or any psychiatric symptoms; nor for chronic pain, nor for drug and alcohol abuse!

It is designed to add to your treatment plan while you are under the care of a qualified mental health professional. You should have been under the care of a therapist for at least 3 months prior to starting your infusions.

It is usually given in a series of 6 infusion treatments in clinical settings. The doctor will tailor your treatment plan to your individual needs to maximize the benefits.

What are the benefits ?

Unlike conventional antidepressants ketamine has been associated with a rapid decrease in depression, bipolar and PTSD symptoms. It has also been shown to be helpful with a variety of chronic pain syndromes and with alleviating the cravings for drugs and alcohol. While the goal is improvement of your symptoms, results cannot be guaranteed, and there is no way to predict how any individual will respond to ketamine infusion therapy. These effects may not be long lasting, and will most likely require further infusions.

Contraindications to ketamine infusions include but are not limited to:

Active substance abuse (alcohol, cannabis, non prescribed medications etc)

History of psychosis

HIstory of increased intracranial pressure

Pregnancy (current)

Uncontrolled hypertension

Acute of unstable cardiovascular conditions

Previous negative response to ketamine

Prior to your Appointment:

A nurse will give you a call a couple of days before your appointment. It is important you disclose all the medications you are taking, both over the counter and prescription, and any supplements as there is risk of other medications interacting with the ketamine. We suggest you bring a ketamine playlist to listen to with headphones, a blanket, pillow and eye mask. You cannot have any meals for 6 hours prior to your treatment and 2 hours for CLEAR liquids (Water, clear apple juice, tea or coffee without sugar or milk). You should refrain from alcohol or other substances prior to and for 24 hours after treatment. You will NOT be able to drive for 24 hours and will need someone to drive you home.

How is it performed?

An intravenous line (IV) will be started in an arm or hand so you can receive the ketamine by infusion. Your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen saturation will be monitored throughout the procedure under a physician’s supervision. You will be given a subanesthetic dose of ketamine, by slow continuous infusion.The duration of the infusion varies from 30-40 minutes.The dose and the infusion rate may be adjusted depending on your response to the first treatment. Additional medications may also be administered if necessary, such as anti-nausea medication, mild sedatives for agitation etc..

During the Infusion:

The dissociative (mind altering drug trip) that is usually part of the experience starts quickly once the infusion is started, and takes on average 15-20 minutes to wear off after the infusion ends.

Risks/Side Effects:

Risk of ketamine: side effects normally depend on the dose and how quickly the infusion is given. Side effects often go away on their own, usually within 30 minutes, with their incidence higher with more prolonged infusions.

Common Side Effects:

Hallucinations, vivid dreams and nightmares

Nausea and vomiting, increased saliva production

Dizziness & Blurred vision

Increased heart rate and blood pressure during infusion

Out of body experience during infusion

Change in motor skills. 

These symptoms dissipate when the infusion is stopped. If they are severe, another medication, such as a sedative can be used to treat the symptoms.

Post infusion:

You will have your blood pressure, pulse and oxygen saturation monitored for at least an hour after infusion and longer depending on you.

You may still be experiencing the dissociative effects of the ketamine after the infusion is finished.

You will be allowed to wake up spontaneously. 

You will be discharged home with a responsible adult companion once you meet the discharge criteria.

Stay hydrated after your infusion. Resume any of your medications you were directed to hold before your treatment.

You should have a “talk therapy” follow up appointment with your psychotherapist for the day after your treatment.