Before Your Appointment

Medical Screening

Before your first infusion, you will undergo a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Psychiatric assessment confirming your diagnosis and treatment history
  • Review of current medications — certain medications may interact with ketamine
  • Vital signs and baseline health screening including blood pressure
  • Discussion of treatment goals and expectations

Day-of Preparation

  • Fasting: Avoid food for 4-6 hours and clear liquids for 2 hours before infusion
  • Medications: Take regular medications as directed unless told otherwise
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing with easy arm access for the IV
  • Transportation: Arrange a ride home — do not drive for at least 12-24 hours after treatment
  • Time: Plan for approximately 2-3 hours total at the clinic

During the Infusion

Setting Up

You will be seated in a comfortable reclining chair. A nurse or clinician will check vital signs, start an IV line, and answer any final questions. Many clinics offer eye masks, blankets, and headphones with calming music.

The Infusion Experience

A standard IV infusion for mood disorders is administered at 0.5 mg/kg over approximately 40 minutes. During the infusion you may experience:

  • Dissociation: A dreamlike or floating feeling — the most common effect, varying in intensity
  • Altered perception: Changes in visual perception, time distortion, or heightened sensory awareness
  • Relaxation: Many patients report deep relaxation; some experience emotional processing
  • Nausea: Mild nausea is possible; providers may pre-treat with ondansetron if needed

Vital signs are monitored throughout. The infusion rate can be adjusted if you experience discomfort.

After the Infusion

Immediate Recovery (30-60 minutes)

  • Dissociative effects gradually diminish
  • Vital signs are rechecked before discharge
  • You may feel drowsy, relaxed, or slightly unsteady
  • Staff will confirm your ride before discharge

The Rest of the Day

  • Plan to rest for the remainder of the day
  • Avoid alcohol and recreational substances
  • Stay hydrated and eat a light meal when ready
  • Some patients notice mood improvement within hours; for others, it may take a few sessions

Subsequent Sessions

An initial course typically consists of six infusions over 2-3 weeks. Your provider will assess response after each session. If effective, a maintenance plan with booster infusions at individualized intervals will be discussed.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

  • What specific protocol do you use (dose, duration, number of sessions)?
  • What monitoring equipment and safety measures are in place?
  • How will you measure my response to treatment?
  • What are the costs, and do you offer payment plans?
  • How do you coordinate care with my existing psychiatrist or therapist?

This article is for informational purposes only. Your provider will give you specific instructions tailored to your situation.