Frequently Asked Questions

Ketamine is a medication that has been used safely in medicine for decades as an anesthetic. In lower, carefully monitored doses, ketamine can help relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders—especially when traditional treatments haven’t worked well. Many patients notice improvement quickly, sometimes within hours or days.

Ketamine itself is FDA-approved as an anesthetic, but not specifically for psychiatric conditions; using it for depression/anxiety is considered “off-label.”

Esketamine (Spravato®)—a ketamine-derived nasal spray—is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and is given only in certified clinics under supervision.

We’ll explain which approach may fit your needs during your consultation.

Ketamine treatments may be helpful for people experiencing:

• Treatment-resistant depression
• Major depressive disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• PTSD / trauma-related symptoms
• OCD (in some cases)
• Other mood disorders, as clinically appropriate
   

Your clinician will review your history to determine whether ketamine is a good option for you.

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have not gotten enough relief from antidepressants or therapy
• Need faster symptom improvement than standard meds typically provide
• Have depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms that interfere with daily life
   

Eligibility is determined after a full psychiatric and medical evaluation.

Your first visit is a comprehensive evaluation. We’ll cover:

• Your symptoms and treatment history
• Medical history and current medications
• Goals for treatment
• Whether ketamine or Spravato® is the best fit
• A personalized plan and timeline
   

You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions.

While exact protocols vary by treatment type, a typical in-clinic session includes:

1. Check-in and vitals (blood pressure, heart rate, etc.)
2. Comfortable, monitored treatment in a calm setting
3. Observation period afterward until you’re cleared to go home
    

Many people feel relaxed or mildly dissociated during treatment. Staff remain available the entire time.

Plan for about 1.5–2 hours total in the office, including preparation and monitoring time. The medication portion is shorter, but we prioritize safety and a smooth recovery window.

Most patients start with a short series (often 4–6 sessions over a few weeks), followed by maintenance as needed. Your plan depends on your diagnosis, response, and goals.

Some patients feel improvement within hours to a few days, while others need multiple sessions. Response times vary, and we track your progress carefully to adjust your plan.

Common short-term side effects can include:

• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Dizziness or nausea
• Temporary rise in blood pressure
• Feeling “spacey” or detached during treatment
   

These effects usually fade within a few hours. Rare but serious risks will be discussed during consent. The FDA also cautions that compounded/off-label ketamine must be medically supervised to reduce risks of misuse or complications. 

Often yes. Ketamine is typically part of a broader treatment plan that may include medication management and psychotherapy. We’ll coordinate your care and advise on any medication timing changes.