Ketamine infusion therapy is a therapeutic approach for various conditions, including treatment-resistant depression, certain anxiety disorders, and chronic pain syndromes. This medical procedure involves the controlled intravenous administration of ketamine in a clinical setting. Proper preparation is important for patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Medical and Medication Review
Before a ketamine infusion, a comprehensive medical and medication review with the treatment clinic is a necessary step. Patients must provide a full disclosure of their medical history, including any pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, liver or kidney issues, blood pressure irregularities, or neurological disorders. Conditions like uncontrolled glaucoma or a history of psychosis are also important for the medical team to be aware of. This thorough review helps the medical team assess suitability and tailor the treatment plan.
It is important to discuss all current medications, encompassing prescription drugs, over-the-counter remedies, and any supplements or herbal products. Certain medication classes may require temporary adjustment or discontinuation before an infusion. Benzodiazepines, for instance, can potentially reduce the therapeutic effects of ketamine, while opioid pain medications or stimulants might interact with ketamine’s influence on heart rate and blood pressure. Blood thinners may also need specific management due to the intravenous nature of the procedure.
The clinic will provide specific instructions regarding medication adjustments, and adherence to these guidelines is important for safety and efficacy. In some cases, pre-infusion tests or evaluations, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) to assess heart function, basic blood work, or a psychiatric evaluation, may be required. Completing these assessments ensures that the patient is medically prepared for the infusion.
Pre-Infusion Dietary and Activity Guidelines
Specific dietary and activity guidelines ensure patient comfort and safety during a ketamine infusion. Patients are typically instructed to fast from solid foods for at least six hours before their scheduled appointment. Clear liquids, such as water, clear broth, or apple juice, are usually permitted up to two hours prior to the infusion. This fasting protocol is designed to prevent nausea and reduce the risk of aspiration, which is when stomach contents enter the lungs, especially since ketamine can induce a relaxed state.
Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and cannabis for a specified period, often 24 to 48 hours, before the infusion. These substances can interact unpredictably with ketamine, potentially leading to adverse effects or compromising the treatment’s effectiveness. Patients should discuss any recent substance use with their medical team.
Guidance on caffeine intake and nicotine use may also be provided; some clinics recommend temporary cessation or reduction. Regarding physical activity, patients should avoid strenuous exercise immediately before the appointment. Maintaining a calm and relaxed state leading up to the infusion is generally beneficial.
Practical Arrangements for Your Appointment
Practical arrangements for the day of your ketamine infusion are essential. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the clinic. The effects of ketamine can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it unsafe to operate a vehicle for the remainder of the day following the infusion. Most clinics will not proceed with treatment if this transportation is not secured.
Patients should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to their appointment. Layered attire is often recommended, as body temperature can sometimes fluctuate during and after the infusion. Ease of access for intravenous line placement is also facilitated by comfortable clothing.
Bringing a few personal items can enhance comfort during the infusion. This may include a small blanket or pillow, headphones for listening to music or a podcast, or an eye mask to reduce sensory input. Any necessary paperwork or identification should also be brought to the clinic.
Planning for the immediate post-infusion period is also important. It is advised to have someone stay with you for several hours after returning home to monitor for any lingering effects. Patients should avoid making important decisions, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in activities requiring full cognitive function for the rest of the day.
Mental and Emotional Preparation
Mental and emotional preparation is important for the overall ketamine infusion experience. Set realistic expectations regarding the treatment; ketamine infusion is a tool within a broader treatment plan and not an instant solution for all conditions. Individual responses to the therapy vary, and multiple sessions are often required to observe sustained benefits.
It is common to feel some anxiety or nervousness before the first infusion. Acknowledging these feelings and openly communicating any fears or concerns with the clinic staff can be reassuring. The medical team is prepared to address patient anxieties and provide support.
Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness, in the days leading up to the appointment can promote a calm state. This can help create a more receptive environment for the infusion experience. Patients are encouraged to prepare a list of questions for their medical team about the procedure, potential sensations during the infusion, and post-infusion care. Focusing on the potential benefits while maintaining a realistic outlook, rather than over-analyzing online experiences, can contribute to a more positive mindset.