Frequently Asked Questions

Ketamine therapy is the use of the drug ketamine, typically used as an anesthetic in medical settings, to treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and others. This is done under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Source: [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ketamine-infusion-therapy/about/pac-20497407)

In ketamine-assisted therapy, the altered state of consciousness induced by ketamine is utilized as a tool in psychotherapy. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but it might involve enhanced neural plasticity facilitating changes in thought patterns and behaviors. Source: [Frontiers in Psychiatry](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00659/full)

Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist. It helps increase the amount of a neurotransmitter called glutamate in the spaces between neurons, which in turn activates connections in parts of the brain involved in mood and emotion. Source: [Harvard Medical School](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ketamine-for-major-depression-new-tool-new-questions-2019052216673)

Long-term success rates for ketamine treatment are not well established due to lack of long-term studies. However, some patients have experienced extended relief from symptoms of depression after a series of treatments. Source: [Journal of Affective Disorders](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032718313332)

Pros: Rapid onset of action, potentially effective for treatment-resistant depression. Cons: Can cause side effects like increased blood pressure and potentially temporary harmful changes in perception or behavior. Source: [Cochrane Library](https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD011612.pub2/full)

When administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional, ketamine can be safe for many individuals. However, it can also cause serious side effects, and its long-term effects are not fully understood.

The short answer is yes, it is! Otherwise we wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing. Ketamine has been used safely for decades as an anesthetic agent (with higher doses than what our patients in the clinic receive) with an excellent track record. There’s no evidence of addiction when used in the appropriate medical setting under the care of qualified physicians.

Ketamine has been used successfully to treat depression. It also shows great promise in treating PTSD, anxiety, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, postpartum depression, substance abuse disorders, and other mental health conditions.

Studies show that a protocol of six infusions over the span or two to three weeks provides the most benefit for patients. This can be followed by maintenance infusions given every few weeks to months as needed with the ultimate goal of not needing any further infusions. The infusions span about an hour, all under the watchful eye of Dr. Karpanian, who will be monitoring you personally the entire time in our quiet and tranquil office. We recommend you commit to at least 2 infusions; if there is no response after the second infusion, then you may fall into the small percentage of patients who don’t respond to treatment. In this case, we will recommend cessation of therapy.

Many patients report feeling better during or immediately after their infusion. The effects of the infusion can last from hours to weeks. Each person responds differently, and this response will dictate how often you’ll require supplemental infusions.

There is a growing body of literature demonstrating that ketamine can be effective in treating many mental health conditions. Most studies demonstrate that about 70% of patients respond positively and feel better after their first infusion. The process works best when approached holistically. Good social support, supplemental and complementary therapy from your therapist or psychiatrist along with good sleep, diet and exercise are very important. We can refer and advise you on any of the above pieces of the treatment puzzle. You will be given a complimentary session with a coach through Being True to You to help optimize your first treatment.

No, a referral is not needed for treatment. Also, if you currently have a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist, it is important that you continue your treatment and follow up with them. Ketamine works best in conjunction with therapy from your current psychotherapy professional. We are happy to provide you a referral if you do not have a therapist currently.

At this time, we do not take insurance. However, we will provide you with a “superbill” detailing your treatment. You can then submit this to your insurance company and they may reimburse you. If you have Medicare, you will be required to fill out and sign a form stating to CMS that you will not submit a claim to Medicare for reimbursement. Most treatments cost $700 each; treatments for certain conditions may take longer and may cost more. There is no fee for your initial consultation. Please note payments made by credit card or debit card will be subject to a 3% processing fee.