You may be curious about trying ketamine infusion therapy to help treat your depression, anxiety, chronic pain, or other conditions. According to Regis College, 47 million adults are treated for mental illness. As this type of therapy becomes more popular, you probably have questions about what the experience will be like. Here's an overview of what you can expect if you pursue ketamine infusion therapy.
Your first step will be an initial consultation to determine if ketamine therapy is right for you. During this visit, a medical professional will ask about your medical history, current medications, and the severity of your symptoms. They'll explain how ketamine works and what to expect during and after infusion sessions. If you seem like a good candidate, they may schedule your first infusion or order additional tests first. Going into your initial consultation with questions prepared can help you get the information you need to feel comfortable moving forward.
Ketamine therapy sessions last about 40 to 60 minutes. You'll sit or recline in a comfortable chair in a dim, peaceful room as you receive the infusion. Many clinics let you listen to music or wear an eye mask if you choose. As the ketamine enters your body, you may feel a bit strange or disconnected. Your arms or legs can feel heavy and sensations may seem distorted. Many people describe visual, auditory, or other perceptual changes - almost like dreaming while awake.
In the day or two after ketamine therapy, you may notice your mood improving or your regular medications working more effectively. However, the benefits are often temporary without additional infusions. Most protocols involve a series of three to six sessions spaced several days or weeks apart, allowing the ketamine and your body time to work between doses. Maintaining positive lifestyle changes can also help maximize and sustain the benefits.
While it may sound unusual, ketamine infusion therapy can provide rapid and lasting relief from many psychiatric and pain conditions when used strategically under medical guidance. Learning what to expect removes some anxiety, so you can focus on healing. If you're interested in learning more about ketamine infusion therapy, including whether it's right for you, schedule a consultation with Keystone Medical Wellness today.
