What to Expect at a Ketamine Clinic for Depression: Procedure, Benefits, and Side Effects

Ketamine therapy has gained significant attention in recent years for its fast-acting relief for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression. If you’ve tried traditional antidepressants with little success, exploring a ketamine clinic for depression could offer a new path to healing. In this article, we’ll explain what happens during a ketamine infusion session, potential side effects, how long the effects last, and how many sessions are typically required.

What Happens During a Ketamine Infusion Session?

A visit to a ketamine clinic for depression typically starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine whether you're a good candidate for ketamine treatment. Once cleared, the process is as follows:

1. Preparation:
   You'll be seated or reclined in a calm, private treatment room. A nurse or medical provider will insert an IV, usually in your arm.

2. Infusion Process:
   The ketamine is delivered slowly over 40–60 minutes. The dose is sub-anesthetic (lower than what would be used in surgery), and the amount is carefully calculated based on your body weight and condition.

3. Experience During Infusion:
   Patients commonly report feeling detached from their body, mild visual distortions, floating sensations, or a dream-like state. However, most are still conscious and able to respond if needed.

4. Post-Infusion Monitoring:
   After the infusion, you’ll be monitored for 30–60 minutes as the effects wear off. You may feel drowsy or mildly disoriented, which typically resolves within an hour or two.

5. Post-Treatment Care:
   It's advised not to drive for the rest of the day. Many patients bring a friend or family member for support and transportation.

Are There Risks or Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy?

While ketamine is generally safe when administered by professionals in a certified

ketamine clinic for depression, there are some side effects and considerations to be aware of:

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Nausea

• Elevated heart rate or blood pressure

• Blurred vision

• Mild hallucinations or dissociation

• Fatigue or headache after the session

Less Common but Serious Risks:

• Increased anxiety or panic during the infusion

• Substance abuse potential (especially with non-clinical use)

• Urinary tract issues (in long-term recreational use)

However, clinical administration with medical supervision drastically reduces these risks. The environment in a ketamine clinic for depression is controlled, and staff are trained to handle side effects and provide a calming atmosphere.

How Long Do the Effects of Ketamine Last for Depression?

One of the most appealing aspects of ketamine therapy is how quickly it can work—often within hours after the first session.

• Immediate Relief: Many patients report a rapid lift in mood, reduced suicidal ideation, and improved clarity within 24 hours.

• Duration of Effects: A single ketamine infusion can offer relief for several days to a week, though the duration varies by individual.

• Maintenance Treatments: To sustain benefits, most clinics recommend a series of sessions followed by maintenance infusions every few weeks or months.

Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take weeks to show effects, ketamine acts rapidly on the brain’s glutamate system, which is thought to promote new neural connections and enhance emotional resilience.

How Many Sessions Are Typically Needed for Depression?

Most ketamine clinics for depression follow a standardized treatment plan that includes:

• Initial Phase: 6 infusions over 2–3 weeks (about 2–3 per week)

• Evaluation: After the initial series, the provider evaluates your response to determine next steps

• Maintenance Phase: Follow-up infusions every 2–6 weeks, depending on individual needs and progress

Some patients feel significantly better after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment for sustained relief.

The goal of a ketamine clinic for depression isn’t just to alleviate symptoms temporarily, but to help patients regain stability and begin to reengage with other therapies such as talk therapy, lifestyle changes, or medication if needed.

Final Thoughts: Is a Ketamine Clinic for Depression Right for You?

If you or someone you love is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, suicidal thoughts, or chronic emotional pain, a ketamine clinic for depression may be a viable and transformative option. With rapid-acting effects, professional supervision, and growing clinical support, ketamine therapy offers hope when traditional approaches have failed.

Always consult with a licensed mental health professional or physician before beginning any new treatment. Make sure the clinic is certified, experienced, and follows strict safety protocols for your well-being.