Frequently Asked Questions
WILL KETAMINE THERAPY HELP MY TREATMENT RESISTANT DEPRESSION?
Based on a landmark study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health, up to 70% of all patients can expect significant relief after a series of six ketamine infusions. We have found that by curating the patient experience, providing an exceptional level of support, and setting realistic outcome expectations, we often see outcome metrics that outperform the NIMH study. It is important to understand that it is impossible to predict an outcome for a specific patient. Thankfully, owing to the ease and accessibility of treatment and the absence of known side-effects, it is possible to explore the benefits of therapy with little or no risk.
WHERE IS THE TREATMENT PERFORMED?
All treatments are performed, on an outpatient basis, in one of Dr. Beasley’s relaxing and comfortable treatment room.
DO I NEED A REFERRAL TO BEGIN THERAPY?
No. If you are not currently a patient of Dr. Beasley, he will meet with you to discuss your diagnosis prior to beginning treatment. Patients who are already seen by Dr. Beasley will work with him to determine readiness during a pre-infusion consultation.
WILL MY INSURANCE COMPANY PAY FOR KETAMINE THERAPY?
Because IV ketamine therapy for mood and anxiety disorders is recent and still viewed as experimental, insurance companies do not provide reimbursement.
IS ORAL, NASAL, OR IM KETAMINE A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO IV THERAPY?
The bioavailability of ketamine delivered intravenously is far superior to any other form of administration. This means that a much smaller dosage yields a superior result.
HOW MANY KETAMINE INFUSIONS WILL I RECEIVE?
Initially all patients receive a series of six infusions spaced over two or three weeks. This follows the protocol developed during the NIMH trial and is the best predictor of efficacy.
IF KETAMINE THERAPY WORKS FOR ME HOW SOON WILL I BEGIN TO FEEL BETTER?
A small group of patients begin to feel better within hours of the first infusion. Patients with thoughts of self-harm often notice those thoughts dissipating first with a dramatic relief of dread and hopelessness. Many patients do not notice a significant mood improvement until they’ve had several infusions. Almost all patients who will respond feel measurably better after the series of six infusions.
ARE THERE ANY LONG-TERM SIDE EFFECTS WITH KETAMINE THERAPY?
IV Ketamine therapy following the NIMH protocol results in no known long-term side effects.
WHAT MEDICAL CONDITIONS COULD KEEP ME FROM RECEIVING KETAMINE?
There are very few. The doctor will discuss contraindications with you before you receive your first infusion.
ARE KETAMINE INFUSIONS ADDICTIVE?
No. While it may be possible to develop a tolerance or addiction to ketamine in instances of abuse, the protocols used in Dr. Beasley’s clinical practice, while extremely effective at reducing or eliminating symptoms, do not create an increased tolerance or addiction.
WILL I REQUIRE KETAMINE INFUSIONS FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE?
Some patients seem to achieve long-term relief after the initial series of six infusions and others require additional infusions at varying frequencies to maintain relief. Aftercare is an important part of ketamine therapy and Dr. Beasley will work with you to determine the best approach for you to achieve lasting relief.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING KETAMINE THERAPY?
Ketamine is administered over a period of 40 minutes. The dose is determined by your weight. The amount of ketamine administered is not enough to cause a loss of consciousness, so you will remain awake. During the infusion, some patients experience odd perceptions—like seeing bright colors. Some report what is referred to as a “dissociative” or “out of body” experience. Most patients tolerate the experiences well and many people find them pleasant. Once the infusion is complete, the dissociative effects of ketamine rapidly dissipate. Patients generally leave the office within 30 minutes following the infusion and feel quite normal. It is important not to drive, operate any dangerous machinery, or make any important decisions until the day after a ketamine infusion.
DO I NEED TO STOP TAKING ANY OF MY CURRENT MEDICATIONS BEFORE I BEGIN KETAMINE THERAPY?
No. You should not make any adjustments in your current medications without specific approval from the prescriber. It is important to note that while there is some speculation related to benzodiazepine and lamotrigine and their effect on ketamine infusions, there is no actual evidence to support adjustments in either in advance of therapy. While these medications may reduce the dissociative effects of ketamine during an infusion, our experience suggests that they have no negative impact on outcomes.