Ketamine infusion therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years as a treatment for depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and other conditions. This innovative treatment involves administering low doses of the anesthetic drug ketamine into the bloodstream, which can produce rapid and long-lasting effects for those who suffer from these conditions.
However, one of the most frequently asked questions regarding ketamine infusion therapy is, “How long do these treatments last?” We will discuss what ketamine infusion is, how long it lasts, and what to expect during a treatment.
What is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic drug that has been used for decades in medical procedures and surgeries. Ketamine infusion therapy involves administering low doses of ketamine into the bloodstream intravenously.
Ketamine infusion therapy is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It has been shown to produce rapid and long-lasting effects for those who suffer from these conditions, often providing relief within hours of the infusion.
During the treatment, patients may experience a range of effects, including a sense of detachment from their physical body and surroundings, and a dream-like state. Some patients report feeling a sense of calm and relaxation, while others describe a feeling of floating or being in a trance-like state.
These effects usually subside within a few hours after the infusion is completed, and patients can often return to their normal activities soon after the treatment. It’s important to note that everyone’s experience with ketamine infusion therapy will be different, and the specific effects and feelings a patient may have will depend on their individual response to the drug.
How Long Do Ketamine Infusion Therapy Treatments Last?
The duration of ketamine infusion therapy treatments can vary depending on several factors, including the specific condition being treated, the individual’s response to the drug, and the dosing protocol used. On average, a single ketamine infusion treatment lasts 40 minutes. However, the effects of the treatment can last for several days or even weeks.
For depression and anxiety, the initial treatment protocol typically involves a series of six infusions administered over a six-week period. After the initial series, patients may receive maintenance infusions every four to six weeks to maintain the therapeutic effects. The number of maintenance infusions required will vary for each individual, and some patients may only require occasional booster infusions to maintain their results.
For chronic pain, the duration of ketamine infusion therapy can vary depending on the severity of the pain and the individual’s response to the treatment. Some patients may require a series of six infusions over a two-week period, while others may only need a single infusion. The frequency of maintenance infusions will also vary, with some patients requiring frequent infusions to maintain their pain-free state, and others only requiring occasional booster infusions.
It’s important to note that ketamine infusion therapy is not a cure for depression, anxiety, or chronic pain. Rather, it is a treatment that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Patients should work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate dosing protocol and frequency of infusions for their individual needs.
What Can You Expect During A Ketamine Infusion Treatment?
During a ketamine infusion treatment, you will be seated in a comfortable chair or reclined on a bed. An IV will be inserted into a vein in your arm, and the ketamine will be administered over a period of 40 minutes. The exact duration of the infusion will depend on the dosing protocol used by your healthcare provider.
You may experience a range of effects during the infusion, including a sense of detachment from your physical body and surroundings, and a dream-like state. These effects typically subside within a few hours after the infusion is completed. In some cases, patients may experience mild side effects, such as headache, nausea, or dizziness, which usually resolve within a few hours.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, ketamine infusion therapy can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and other conditions. At Dr. Handoo’s clinic, we are committed to providing our patients with the best care and support during their journey toward recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, or another condition, please contact our clinic today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how ketamine infusion therapy can help. Our team of experienced medical professionals is here to support you every step of the way.