IV Ketamine
Ketamine treatments are used to care for patients with treatment resistant depression. IV Ketamine is administered within our offices where you will be monitored by a psychiatrist and other medical professionals over the course for 90 to 120 minutes. Ketamine is approved by the FDA as an anesthetic, however has been used off label to treat depression. At Depression MD we give as an intravenous infusion over time.
Schedule a ConsultKetamine Depression Treatment
It has been discovered that ketamine can be highly effective in treating Depression, PTSD, Fibromyalgia, and stress related conditions. Ketamine works on a neurotransmitter called Glutamate and it helps regenerate synaptic connections between brain cells damaged by stress and depression. Ketamine, can often improve mood quickly, in as little as 24 hours.
IV Ketamine FAQs
Is Ketamine depression treatment Safe?
Ketamine is a FDA approved and primarily as an induction agent for general anesthesia in surgery for children, adults, and animals. Ketamine has a remarkable safety track record.
What is the success rate of Ketamine treating depression?
Ketamine is 60-80 % effective for depression. Although the effects of Ketamine usually last for several weeks, some people can remain in remission for months.
Do I need a referral from my primary care physician?
No, you do not need a referral. However, you must be under care of a primary care physician while you’re receiving treatment
What is the minimum age for treatment?
IV Ketamine can be prescribed for treatment of children under 18. If you are considering IV Ketamine as treatment for depression, please call our office 203-701-9737 or schedule a consult. We will be happy to discuss available treatment options for all age groups.
What disorders can ketamine infusions treat?
Promising data has demonstrated positive effects in treating severe, chronic, treatment resistant depression. Depression MD uses Ketamine for treatment resistant depression, PTSD, postpartum depression, Alcohol Use Disorder and more.
Are there any specific medical conditions that would prevent me from receiving treatment?
If you have psychosis, high blood pressure, cardiac, and/or pulmonary issues it may be necessary for your primary care physician to provide medical clearance before beginning ketamine.
Can I eat and/or drink prior to my Ketamine infusion?
Avoid solid foods and/or milk for 6 hours prior to your ketamine infusion. You may drink clear liquids (i.e. water, fruit juices without pulp, carbonated beverages, clear tea, and black coffee) up until 2 hours before your infusion. Alcohol or the use of any narcotic drugs must be excluded. These substances are extremely dangerous in combination with ketamine.
Will I be asleep during the procedure?
While you may fall asleep, the dose of ketamine you will receive does not put you to sleep. Often, many patients will do work 40 minutes after the infusion.
What is the infusion process like?
Ketamine is administered intravenously over 40 – 60 minutes. As the infusion progresses, you may encounter a feeling of “lightness” or “floating,” which for some feels as a “weight being lifted off their shoulders”. You will be monitored throughout the infusion and we are prepared to treat any unpleasant side effects during the procedure. Within 15 minutes of completing the infusion, you will to start to regain your senses and your thinking should return to normal.
How do I know if the infusion worked? How should I expect to feel afterwards?
After the infusion, you may notice positive effects as soon as 30 minutes post infusion but typically improvements begin several hours post treatment.
How long will the effects last?
The effects of a single infusion typically last up to two weeks. After a series of six infusions, some people could remain symptom free for several months. Booster infusions can be given monthly or quarterly as needed.
Should I be concerned about any risks of addiction with ketamine therapy?
Ketamine has been classified as a Schedule III controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction. Your doctor monitors you for signs of addiction. Ketamine is proven safe in humans. It has been used for years as a surgical anesthetic in children and in trauma management. In addition, Ketamine will be administered under medical supervision while in our offices
Depression is treatable, schedule a consultation now!
It’s important for you to be comfortable with us before your first visit. So schedule a quick phone call with any concerns or to discuss the care you need 203-701-9737.
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Dr. Lisa Harding…TRUE PASSION. REAL. THE BEST!!!
Dr. Harding is a genuinely caring person!!! She is by far the best that Doctor I have seen on SO many levels! This wonderful woman has a TRUE love and passion for what she does and believes in. Dr. Harding has gone out of her way, above and beyond to show me how much she cares! She is a real down to earth person, easy to talk to and LISTENS. I was afraid to see a new resident when she started because of all my past experiences, but she has been the biggest blessing to walk into my life when I needed it the most! I will forever be grateful for her and the beautiful soul that she has I would and WILL always recommend Dr. Harding to ANYONE