Frequently Asked Questions

Ketamine works to treat depression by affecting the glutamate neurotransmitter system rather than the well-known serotonin system. Some of the effects are the growth of new nerves in the amygdala (the emotional seat of the brain) and the creation of new neural networks. These synaptic connections get damaged by chronic stress.

Anxiety is a worry and general belief that things will go wrong. Depression and anxiety are often linked. Ketamine has been shown to relieve some of that constant preoccupation that defines an anxiety disorder.

Depression is a feeling of sadness, usually with a sense of hopelessness and an extremely negative view of themselves and the world around them. It is often associated with thoughts of suicide. Approximately 20% of the US population has suffered with depression at some time.

Ketamine has been approved by the FDA as an anesthetic agent for over 50 years. Its profound antidepressant effects were not discovered until the early 2000s. It has been used “off label” since then for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues since then based on extensive clinical studies.

Ketamine is known to be one of the safest anesthetic agents available. The dosage used for treating mental health disorders is approximately 1/8 of what would be given to facilitate a surgical procedure. Ketamine does not affect respiratory rate or heart rate making it extremely safe. At Georgia Renew Clinics we monitor blood pressure pulse and pulse oximetry readings during treatment.

Ketamine is given through an intravenous infusion. It is very poorly absorbed through the stomach and intestines. That medication is infused over a period of 40 to 60 minutes.

Ketamine has a history of recreational abuse (unsupervised, high, frequent, self- administered dosing) that peaked in the 1990’s. Therapeutic Ketamine infusions start with an incredibly low dose given slowly under medical supervision avoiding the sudden high that can predispose to addiction.

The number and frequency of Ketamine infusions is highly variable. Many people complete a single course of treatment (usually 6) and with improved engagement with friends and family and a lighter heart. They require no further treatment. Some do better with “booster” infusions every few months depending upon life circumstances.

The long-term side effects of Ketamine use are all related to the non-medical use of the drug with exceptionally large and frequent doses. The side effects include problems with bladder irritation and cognition. There are no reports of these issues with low dose therapeutic administration. Research is ongoing.

Research shows that the active metabolites of Ketamine can remain in the system for several weeks. Part of the therapeutic healing process is that with an improved mood, life experiences are more positive adding to the joy of life.

Ketamine is known to modulate chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain. It has been used in the treatment of CRPS, Fibromyalgia, Migraine headaches, orofacial pain, and neuralgia with moderate success.

In a large meta-analysis study published by the American Journal of Psychiatry, Ketamine was shown to rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts following a single infusion. Ketamine is used clinically for this purpose in psychiatric emergencies.

Ketamine is not covered by insurance for the treatment of pain and depression because the FDA has not formally approved the medication for these purposes. Some insurance companies reimburse for other aspects of the treatment such as IV fluids and the monitoring of vital signs.

Ketamine is an extremely safe drug but may not be the best choice for everyone dealing with anxiety and depression. Certain kinds of bipolar disorder (rapid cycling) or tendency for psychosis could be made worse with Ketamine so personal history and referral notes are carefully reviewed.

At the time of your first visit (after it is determined that you are a candidate) you will be seated in a comfortable recliner in a private room. Your blood pressure and pulse will be recorded, and a certified nurse will insert an IV catheter into your hand or arm. The carefully calculated dose of Ketamine will be infused by a calibrated pump over 40 minutes. Most patients feel mildly disoriented and some describe it as like being a bit “drunk.” Your vital signs will be rechecked during the infusion. The brief dissociation you experience will fade quickly during the 30- minute post-infusion time and you will be conversational and alert by the time you leave.

Following Ketamine therapy, you should not drive or make any major decisions. This recommendation is similar to that given following an endoscopy or other procedure that alters your perceptions. Most people do not want to return to work or engage in any heavy mental activities following a Ketamine infusion although you may feel fine. Alcohol and CBD should also be avoided for 24 hours.

It is always important to include your primary care specialist in your decision to undergo Ketamine treatments. They will let you know if it is safe to proceed. We closely monitor your vital signs here at GRC during the sessions and share the results with them.

There have only been a few studies reported on adolescent Ketamine therapy. The limited studies and anecdotal evidence show that their response is like it is in adults with about 80% positive improvement. There is an ongoing controlled study being done at Yale scheduled to end 12/31/24 which should give us n=more information. We at GRC have treated several teens with good outcomes.

The safety of Ketamine therapy in pregnancy and lactation is uncertain. Animal studies show no adverse effects, but the facts are not all in. Ketamine is used without adverse effects in very young children for emergency procedures.