What is ketamine?
Ketamine is a drug that has been used since the 1970’s primarily by anesthesiologists in operating rooms and in emergency settings. Its advantage in adults is that, unlike most anesthetics, it supports rather than depresses blood pressure. Extensive research over the last decade and a half has shown that when given in small doses (a fraction of the dose used for anesthesia), ketamine promotes renewal of neural connections in specific parts of the brain associated with mood. Chronic depression or stress causes these connections to atrophy or disappear. Thus, a small dose of ketamine actually causes these brain connections to regenerate and produces rapid reversal of symptoms of anxiety and depression in approximately 70-80% of those treated.
How much does treatment with ketamine cost?
Currently, insurance does not pay for ketamine treatment for mood disorders. We meet with each patient for an initial combined psychological and medical evaluation. The recommended treatment consists of 6 infusions over a 2 to 3 week period. Please contact us for information regarding fees and payment.
We offer interest free financing through the Advance Care Card. The Advance Care Card is a type of credit card that provides 0% interest over 12-14 months which can only be used for medical expenses at participating medical facilities. This allows patients to spread the cost of the treatment across multiple months with no interest.
How to apply:
Click HERE or on the icon to the right
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This will bring you to page listing Discover and Citi cards. Advance Care partners with these two providers to administer their card. The first card listed always provides the best terms at that point in time.
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Are there side effects?
Occasionally someone will experience queasiness or nausea during the infusion, which is easily treated with anti-nausea medication such as Zofran (ondansetron). Enough time is allowed following the infusion for you to feel steady on your feet. You might feel tired and wish to go home and sleep; others may simply feel calm and more open and observant. Some may experience a temporary small elevation in blood pressure during the infusion, which is why we monitor blood pressure. This rarely amounts to more than a slight increase, still within normal range for the individual.
What do people experience during the treatment?
People are always conscious, aware of their surroundings, and able to communicate verbally. They may feel slightly drowsy but this effect wears off within minutes of the end of the infusion. Speech occasionally feels slurred, and time may feel either prolonged or telescoped. Some patients listen to music with headphones, others simply close their eyes and relax.
Should I continue my current psychiatric medications?
Yes. However, benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax) may interfere with the beneficial effect of ketamine. If it is possible to omit the benzodiazepine the day of the treatment, then do so. If that’s not possible, certainly take the medication as usual and as prescribed. Lamotrigine also appears to interfere with the most successful outcome of ketamine treatment.
How is ketamine given?
Ketamine is given in a measured and timed dose, approximately 40 minutes in duration, through a small intravenous line placed in the forearm or hand. The dose is determined based on your weight. Blood pressure and oxygen levels are monitored at preset intervals and a heart rhythm monitor is used for your initial infusion and if needed thereafter. Various ‘extenders’ (nasal spray, lozenges) may be recommended on a case by case basis after the best individual dose for the patient has been determined by IV infusion.
Is a referral is required for ketamine therapy?
No, a referral from a mental health professional is not required. One of our psychologists will evaluate you and determine whether the treatment would be appropriate for you. We cannot guarantee success, but 70-80% of patients improve, many dramatically. We recommend follow up with a mental health professional during and after the treatments; we can assist with that if you wish.
Based on your medical history and medication list, the medical director will also determine if there are any medical reasons why ketamine treatment is not recommended. Please contact us with questions.
Ketamine is a drug of abuse in some places world-wide. Does this pose a risk of getting “hooked”?
No. When abused as a street drug, ketamine is used at a much higher dose and all at once. Receiving infusions of low dose ketamine for a specific reason as noted by a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health provider has not been shown to result in addiction.
Does someone need to come with me for my treatment?
It is not necessary for someone to accompany you to the treatment. You do need to arrange for transportation home afterwards, either a ride, public transportation, Uber/Lyft or walking. It is imperative that you not drive a car or bike until the next morning.
Must I fast before a treatment?
Yes, we ask that you have a light meal no less than five hours before the infusion treatment. Clear liquids (any liquid you can see your hand through when holding it in a glass or bottle) can be consumed until two hours before your appointment, thereafter just small sips of water. Please, no carbonated liquids (they can contribute to nausea).