Frequently Asked Questions
Our Staff has the Answers to Your Questions
Please see the new patient process.
Ketamine works differently than other antidepressant medications by targeting mood disorders directly at the source rather than just treating the problems. It is thought that ketamine targets glutamate, an important neurotransmitter in the brain. This allows nerve connections across the body and brain to reset and be restored.
Side effects commonly include drowsiness and nausea (though mild). During the treatment itself, you may experience a “dreamlike” state. This dreamlike state is also referred to as a “dissociative state.” Patients often describe it as a floating sensation, and it subsides once the infusion is complete.
Research has shown that a series of six infusions over a two-three week timespan provides the greatest symptom relief for our patients, though it’s important to remember that length of treatment is individual to the patient and their needs.
For your safety and comfort, we ask that you do not eat anything eight hours prior to your scheduled infusion time. Clear liquids (water, black coffee, tea, juice) are fine up to two hours of your appointment time. After your infusion we will have a light snack and drink for you.
Yes, you will need to have someone available to drive you home from your infusion appointment. You will not be able to drive for the rest of the day once you have completed the infusion.
While many patients (70%) feel relief from symptoms after their first infusion, others will experience gradual relief over time. Some may feel only partial relief after their first infusion, but this is still a significant difference from the 6-8 weeks that other antidepressant medications take to kick in.
We are currently in network with Cigna insurance and Medcost. For other insurers we are out of network. We will assist you by providing super bills or receipts to submit to your insurance for an out of network claim. Some insurance companies will pay for a portion of outpatient ketamine infusion services. You should check with your insurance company representative to find out specific requirements and limitations of this coverage.
