How it can help

Ketamine blocks NMDA receptors, which play a central role in “central sensitization,” the process by which the nervous system becomes amplified and keeps signaling pain long after an injury. At low doses, infusions may reduce that amplification for some patients.

Conditions we treat

• Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• Neuropathic pain, including diabetic and post-herpetic neuropathy
• Selected cases of fibromyalgia and widespread chronic pain

What to expect

• Screening first. A consultation reviews your diagnosis, medications, blood pressure, heart history and mental health history to make sure ketamine is safe for you.
• Monitored infusions. Your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen are monitored throughout, with an anesthesia professional present.
• A series, not a single dose. Treatment usually starts with several infusions, followed by boosters only if they help. Your plan is set at consultation.
• Side effects are usually short-lived: feeling detached or dreamy during the infusion, nausea, dizziness, and a temporary rise in blood pressure.
• Bring a driver. You can’t drive for the rest of the day.

Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic. Its use for chronic pain is off-label and not FDA-approved, and ketamine infusion for pain is self-pay. Results vary, and ketamine isn’t appropriate for everyone, including people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, certain heart conditions, or a history of psychosis.

Ketamine for depression

For adults with depression that hasn’t improved after trying several antidepressants, a series of IV ketamine infusions may relieve symptoms, sometimes within days rather than weeks. Infusions work best as part of ongoing care, so we coordinate with your psychiatrist or therapist and ask that you stay in their care during treatment.

IV ketamine is not FDA-approved for depression, results vary, and it isn’t right for everyone, including people with active psychosis or certain substance use histories. If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 now, or call 911.

Pricing depends on your treatment plan. Please call us for current pricing.

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