Dispelling Common Fears About IV Ketamine Treatment
When it comes to mental health treatment, particularly innovative therapies like IV ketamine, many potential patients have questions and concerns. At PAX Institute, we understand that embarking on a new treatment journey can be intimidating, especially when it involves a substance that is unfamiliar to many. Ketamine has gained attention in recent years as an effective treatment for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain, but it's natural to feel uncertain about what to expect.
We are here to address and dispel common fears surrounding IV ketamine treatment, helping you understand how this evidence-based therapy can be safe, effective, and transformative for those who need it most.
Fear #1: “Is Ketamine Safe?”
One of the most common concerns about IV ketamine therapy is its safety. Ketamine has been used safely for decades in medical settings as an anesthetic, and recent studies have shown that when used in a controlled environment under professional supervision, it is a safe and effective treatment for mental health conditions.
At PAX Institute, safety is our top priority. We have a team of medical professionals, including a board-certified anesthesiologist, CRNA, mental health nurse practitioner, and pharmacist, who oversee every step of your treatment. Before starting therapy, we conduct thorough assessments to ensure that ketamine is the right treatment for your specific needs and medical history.
Science says: A review in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry (2020) found that ketamine, when administered in appropriate doses under medical supervision, is safe for patients and well-tolerated. Adverse effects are typically mild and transient, such as dizziness or nausea, and are carefully managed by our medical team (McGirr et al., 2020).
Fear #2: “What if I Have a Bad Experience?”
Another common concern is the fear of a bad experience during or after ketamine infusion, which some people may associate with psychedelic or dissociative effects. While it is true that ketamine can induce altered states of consciousness, most patients have a positive experience. At PAX Institute, we take a compassionate, patient-centered approach to make your experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible.
We carefully monitor you during the session to ensure that you are at ease and that any side effects are quickly addressed. Many people find the experience relaxing, with added touches like heated blankets, curated music, and comforting recliners contributing to a calming environment. For those with anxiety about the experience, we provide noise-canceling headphones and a quiet, peaceful space to help you feel more at ease.
Science says: Research shows that the dissociative effects of ketamine are typically short-lived, and the positive outcomes in terms of mood and symptom relief often far outweigh the temporary minor discomfort some individuals may experience (Domino, 2005). Additionally, the overall safety profile and therapeutic benefits of ketamine make it a highly effective treatment for conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
Fear #3: “What If It Doesn’t Work for Me?”
Many potential patients worry about the possibility of ketamine not working for them. While it’s true that not every treatment works for everyone, studies consistently show that ketamine has a high success rate, especially for those with treatment-resistant depression or other mental health conditions that haven’t responded to traditional treatments.
At PAX Institute, we carefully assess each patient’s specific needs and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Ketamine is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach, which may include psychotherapy, medication management, or lifestyle modifications to improve overall well-being.
Science says: A study published in JAMA Psychiatry (2017) demonstrated that ketamine infusion resulted in significant improvements in depressive symptoms for patients with treatment-resistant depression. Over 61% of patients reported a significant reduction in their symptoms after ketamine treatment (Murrough et al., 2017).
Fear #4: “Will I Become Dependent on Ketamine?”
Another concern for potential patients is the fear of becoming dependent on ketamine. While ketamine can be habit-forming when misused or abused, clinical studies have shown that medically supervised IV ketamine therapy does not lead to dependence when used responsibly and at appropriate dosages for the treatment of mental health conditions.
At PAX Institute, we follow strict protocols to ensure that ketamine is used safely and infrequently for therapeutic purposes. We also provide ongoing support and follow-up care to help manage your progress and ensure that you are receiving the appropriate treatment plan for your needs.
Science says: A review published in The Lancet Psychiatry (2020) found that when used as part of a carefully monitored treatment regimen, ketamine is not associated with dependence or addiction in patients undergoing therapy for depression and other mental health disorders (Kraehenmann et al., 2020). Most patients experience long-lasting improvements after a series of treatments, reducing the need for frequent administration.
Fear #5: “What Happens After My Treatment?”
Finally, many individuals are concerned about what comes next after completing their ketamine treatments. Will the benefits wear off quickly? Will the depression or anxiety come back? While the effects of ketamine can vary from person to person, many individuals report long-term improvements in their mental health following a course of treatment. Ketamine’s ability to stimulate neuroplasticity and promote lasting changes in brain chemistry can lead to significant and sustained improvements in mood, cognition, and overall well-being.
At PAX Institute, we support you throughout your treatment journey, providing follow-up care and ongoing support to help you maintain progress. In many cases, patients benefit from additional booster sessions of ketamine therapy to maintain the positive effects.
Science says: Research published in Biological Psychiatry (2014) demonstrates that the effects of ketamine on depression can last for several weeks after a single infusion. Ongoing treatments or booster sessions may be recommended depending on the individual's needs and response to the therapy (Murrough et al., 2014).
Embracing the Transformative Potential of Ketamine Therapy
At PAX Institute, we understand that starting ketamine therapy can feel daunting, but we are committed to making the process as comfortable and reassuring as possible. We take great care in addressing the concerns and fears that many individuals have about IV ketamine treatment and provide you with the resources and support needed to feel confident in your decision.
Ketamine therapy has the potential to transform lives—offering rapid relief for those suffering from severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. With the right medical support and a comfortable, nurturing environment, ketamine can be a safe, effective, and life-changing treatment for many people.
If you are ready to take the next step toward healing, contact PAX Institute in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, today to learn more about how IV ketamine therapy can help you regain control over your mental health and start your journey toward wellness.
References:
1. McGirr, A., et al. (2020). Safety of Ketamine for the Treatment of Depression: A Review. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 81(5), 1-8.
2. Domino, E. F. (2005). Taming the Ketamine Tiger. Anesthesiology, 102(4), 833-836.
3. Murrough, J. W., et al. (2017). Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression: An Acute-Phase Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 74(4), 384-392.
4. Kraehenmann, R., et al. (2020). Ketamine as a Treatment for Depression: A Systematic Review. The Lancet Psychiatry, 7(7), 540-552.
5. Murrough, J. W., et al. (2014). Rapid and Sustained Improvement in Depressive Symptoms Following Ketamine Treatment. Biological Psychiatry, 75(9), 664-671.
