Ketamine Therapy Frequently Asked Questions

Is ketamine safe?

• At Nameen Infusion & Wellness, your safety is our top priority. As an FDA-approved anesthetic, Ketamine has been a trusted option in operating rooms and emergency care settings since the 1970s. Our board-certified emergency room physician oversees every Ketamine infusion, ensuring the utmost care and precision. With varying dosages tailored to specific conditions, we're equipped to address a range of needs, from depression and anxiety to chronic pain management. Throughout your infusion, you'll be closely monitored with continuous vital checks and emergency protocols in place, providing peace of mind throughout your treatment journey.

Is ketamine addictive?

• At lower dosages, ketamine is non-addictive. Although Ketamine has been misused as a street drug, especially at higher doses, it retains its medical significance when supervised by qualified professionals. Ensuring the right dosage in a secure and monitored setting is crucial for optimizing the therapeutic advantages of ketamine therapy.

How does ketamine work?

• Ketamine operates by targeting the NMDA receptor in the brain, consequently elevating Glutamate levels. Additionally, it boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which facilitates the formation of new neuron synapses, a process referred to as neurogenesis or neuroplasticity. This mechanism aids in resetting the brain and fostering a fresh perspective. Moreover, Ketamine acts on pain receptors, making it effective in alleviating chronic pain.

What conditions do you treat?
At Nameen Infusion & Wellness, we use ketamine therapy to treat various conditions, including:

        1. Treatment Resistant Depression
        2. Anxiety
        3. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
        4. Suicidal ideation
        5. Chronic pain
        6. CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) / RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)
        7. Trigeminal Neuralgia
        8. Anti-inflammatory Conditions
        9. Lyme Disease
        10. Covid 19 Related Stress (or Long Covid)
        11. Bipolar Depression
        12. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
        13. Fibromyalgia
        14. Neuropathic pain
        15. Alcohol/Opiate Addiction
        16. Migraine/Headaches

What dose of ketamine is given?

• At our clinic, ketamine dosing typically begins with a sub-dissociative dose of 0.5mg per kilogram of body weight. Depending on the individual's diagnosis and response to treatment, this dosage may be adjusted or increased during subsequent sessions. Additionally, we offer the option of receiving ketamine intramuscularly, which involves 2-3 injections administered in one session. If you're interested in learning more about intramuscular ketamine, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Does ketamine work for everyone?

• While ketamine has shown promising results for 70-80% of individuals, it's important to note that it may not be suitable for everyone. Treatment resistance affects approximately 15-20% of patients. However, compared to traditional treatments with success rates ranging from 30-40%, ketamine therapy offers a higher likelihood of efficacy for those who are responsive to it.

What are the side effects of ketamine?

• The most frequently reported side effects of ketamine include nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and mild headaches. It's worth noting that ketamine has a short half-life, typically metabolizing fully within 3-4 hours after administration.

How long does a treatment session last?

• At our clinic, each treatment session typically lasts around 90 minutes. The ketamine infusion itself takes approximately 40 minutes. This duration accounts for the time needed to insert the IV and ensure your safety. After the infusion, we recommend that you remain in our care until you feel fully recovered and ready to leave with your designated driver. Additionally, Dr. Imani, who is also a certified psychedelic integration coach, dedicates time after the infusion to discuss your experience and provide support with integration.

Can I eat before my treatment?

• No, we ask that you fast for 3-4 hours prior to your infusion. The most common side effect is nausea and vomiting and its best to be on an empty stomach. Avoid caffeine or any other stimulants. Avoid alcohol the night before your infusion.

Can I drive home after my treatment?

• No, ketamine's effects can last hours and handling any machinery can be dangerous.  For your safety you are required to have a ride home after your infusion.

What medications should be avoided prior to my ketamine infusion?

• Most medications are safe to continue during ketamine treatment. However, if you are taking certain medications like benzodiazepines or lamotrigine, Dr. Imani may need to discuss making some adjustments.

How many treatments will I need?

• Typically, our clients require around 6 to 8 sessions for mood disorders, while chronic pain and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) may necessitate 4 to 5 consecutive sessions. For mood disorders, clients attend 2 sessions a week for 3 weeks initially. Afterward, we offer booster sessions as needed, tailored to the individual's requirements.

Do you take insurance?

• No, ketamine is not FDA approved for IV treatments. Ketamine infusions are an OFF label use at this time.  We do offer superbills for the client to submit to their individual insurance. We also take HAS or FSA. Intranasal ketamine is FDA approved, but the efficacy and the bioavailability is not as high as IV ketamine infusion. We would love to make this treatment available for more people. We are in the process of working with a therapist who might be able to take your insurance and make this treatment affordable. For more information please contact us. 

Do you offer financing?

• Yes! We offer payment plans. We have affordable financing options to our patients, available through our partner Advance Care, a medical funding company. For details, please call them directly at 800-432-9470, or visit their website at advancecarecard.com.

Do you offer oral or intranasal ketamine?

• Currently, we do not prescribe oral ketamine for at-home use or administer intranasal ketamine treatments.

What is the youngest or the oldest age who can get ketamine?

• Dr. Imani is experienced in treating individuals as young as 15 years old after an in-person consultation. We also accommodate patients up to 85 years old on a case-by-case basis.

Do you offer discounts to military or first responders?

• At Nameen Infusion & Wellness, we are proud supporters of our military and first responders who dedicate their lives to serving and protecting our communities. We deeply appreciate their selfless sacrifices and unwavering commitment to keeping us safe. As a token of our gratitude, we are honored to offer exclusive discounts to military personnel and first responders as a small gesture of appreciation for their invaluable service. It is our privilege to provide them with access to the care they deserve as a thank you for their bravery and dedication.

Through our partnership with the 100 Club, we go a step further by providing scholarships that enable first responders to access essential mental health support. For further details on how we support our heroes, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Do I need a referral to receive ketamine treatments?

• No, a referral is not necessary to schedule a consultation. However, we do encourage open communication with your healthcare provider or therapist. Dr. Imani conducts a thorough assessment of your medical and psychiatric history, including past treatments, to ensure the best possible care.

How do I mentally prepare for my ketamine treatment?

• When preparing for your infusion at Nameen Infusion & Wellness, it's essential to understand the concept of "set and setting." We focus on providing a comfortable, low-stimulus, and safe environment - that's the setting. However, you play a crucial role in setting your mindset. Clearing your mind and preparing yourself for the experience can enhance the benefits of ketamine therapy. Some find relaxation through yoga, breathwork, music, or meditation, while others prefer connecting with nature through a walk or by the lakeside. By setting the stage for yourself, you can ensure a more profound and peaceful infusion experience.

What should I do after my ketamine treatment?

• After your treatment at Nameen Infusion & Wellness, we advise heading home to unwind and engage in activities you find enjoyable or spend time with supportive loved ones. Reflect on your experience, perhaps by jotting down notes or journaling. It's essential to avoid operating heavy machinery, making significant life decisions, or caring for young children immediately after your session. Taking this time for self-care and reflection can contribute to the effectiveness of your treatment.

How long will it take for ketamine treatments to work?

• Patients undergoing ketamine treatment for mood disorders typically experience relief within an hour of their session. Those struggling with self-harm or suicidal thoughts often notice a significant reduction in these feelings after their treatment. Relief tends to become more pronounced after the third or fourth session, with full benefits often realized after the sixth session. While some patients may require additional sessions for significant relief, many find even subtle changes to be life-changing. For chronic pain, substantial relief is typically experienced after completing a series of 5 infusions. Patients with both chronic pain and mental health concerns may find relief in both areas through treatment for chronic pain.