Ketamine Infusions: What to Expect During Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry

At the Ketamine Therapy Center, we are committed to providing innovative treatments for individuals struggling with depression and other mood disorders. One such treatment is ketamine infusion therapy, recognized for its rapid and effective relief of symptoms, especially in cases where traditional antidepressants have not been successful.

Understanding Ketamine Therapy at the Mental Health Center

Ketamine has been safely used as an anesthetic since the 1970s. In recent years, research has demonstrated its efficacy as a fast-acting antidepressant, particularly for those with treatment-resistant depression. At our center, we offer various ketamine therapy options tailored to individual needs:​

• IV & IM Ketamine Infusions: Administered intravenously or intramuscularly, these infusions allow for precise dosing and quick absorption, aiming to alleviate depressive symptoms rapidly.​

• Spravato (Esketamine) Treatment: An FDA-approved intranasal treatment for treatment-resistant depression, Spravato is administered under medical supervision to ensure safety and efficacy.

• Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy: Combining ketamine administration with psychotherapy, this approach enhances the therapeutic process, allowing patients to process emotions and gain insights during their treatment sessions.

The Ketamine Treatment Process at Our Center

1. Initial Evaluation:

Your journey begins with a comprehensive pre-treatment medical assessment. This evaluation includes:​

• Physical Health Assessment: Laboratory tests to evaluate liver function and other vital organs, ensuring you're a suitable candidate for ketamine therapy.​

• Psychiatric Evaluation: A thorough review of your mental health history, including any previous treatments and current medications, to tailor the therapy to your specific needs.​

2. Treatment Planning:

Based on the evaluation, our specialists will:​

• Determine Eligibility: Confirm that ketamine therapy is appropriate for your condition, especially if you've not responded to traditional antidepressants.​

• Customize Dosage: Develop a dosing plan based on your weight and treatment needs, choosing the most suitable administration method (IV, IM, or intranasal).​

3. Administration of Treatment:

On the day of your session:​

• Preparation: You'll be seated comfortably in a private room, with monitoring equipment attached to track vital signs.​

• Administration: The ketamine will be administered as per your personalized plan.​

• Monitoring: Throughout the session, our medical staff will observe you to manage any immediate effects and ensure your safety.​

4. Post-Treatment Care:

After the infusion:​

• Observation: You'll remain in our care for a short period to monitor your response and ensure you're stable before leaving.​

• Aftercare Instructions: We'll provide guidelines for recovery, including information on potential side effects and when to seek further assistance.​

• Follow-Up: Regular check-ins will be scheduled to assess the therapy's effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.

Seek Support

The Ketamine Therapy Center in Los Angeles offers ketamine therapy in the forms of IV, IM, and Spravato; we work with highly trained nurses, doctors, and therapists to deliver the best care possible.

​Psychiatrists and therapists who work with us specialize in ketamine therapy, ensuring treatments are safe, effective, and tailored to each patient's needs. We adhere to the highest medical standards, providing a supportive environment throughout your treatment journey.​

If you're considering ketamine therapy or have questions about our services, reach out to us at 310-601-9999 or visit our website for more information. Our team is here to support you on your path to healing.