Key Takeaways
- Ketamine infusion delivers rapid symptom relief by targeting glutamate, not serotonin, offering hope for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety.
- Sessions are medically supervised, with tailored dosing and a calm clinical setting designed to prioritize patient safety and comfort.
- Most patients start with six infusions over 2–3 weeks, followed by ongoing maintenance based on individual response and symptom patterns.
The conversation around innovative mental health treatments is changing rapidly. For those who’ve cycled through antidepressants and therapy with little progress, a new option is gaining ground: ketamine infusion therapy. It’s being talked about in doctors’ offices, mental health forums, and even mainstream media—but what exactly is an “infusion,” and what should you expect if you’re considering it?
If you’ve heard about ketamine infusion but aren’t sure what it involves, this guide is for you. Whether exploring new possibilities or preparing for your first session, here’s what to know.
What Is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
At its core, ketamine infusion therapy involves delivering a low dose of ketamine—an anesthetic that’s been used in medicine for decades—through an IV in a clinical setting. It’s not used in the way most people associate with anesthesia. In these smaller doses, the goal is therapeutic: easing symptoms of treatment-resistant depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and, in some cases, chronic pain.
The treatment takes place under medical supervision and is tailored to each person’s needs. It’s considered especially valuable for individuals who haven’t found relief with standard medications or are in crisis and need more rapid support.
How Does It Work for Mental Health?
Unlike traditional antidepressants that work on serotonin pathways and can take weeks to show benefits, ketamine targets a different system entirely. It acts on glutamate—a key neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation—by modulating NMDA receptors. This interaction is believed to spark rapid neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to create new connections and begin shifting out of harmful emotional patterns.
The effects can unfold within hours to a day or two, offering relief that feels markedly different from the long, slow buildup of SSRIs.
What to Expect During a Ketamine Infusion
Your session occurs in a peaceful, clinic-based environment with trained staff present at all times. You’ll receive your ketamine infusion through an IV, typically over a span of 40 to 60 minutes. The space is designed to be calming and supportive, with privacy and comfort as top priorities.
During the session, some people feel a gentle sense of detachment or dreamlike thinking. Others experience calm, warmth, or a light floating sensation. These effects generally fade within a couple of hours after treatment, and the medical team is there throughout to guide and monitor your experience.
What to Expect After a Session
After an infusion, most patients feel somewhat drowsy or mentally “distant” for a short time. It’s a good idea to have someone available to drive you home and to plan for rest. Staying hydrated and keeping the rest of the day free of obligations can help support recovery.
Some people notice a subtle shift in mood the same day. For others, the effects become more apparent over the following 24 to 48 hours. A sense of emotional reset, reduced rumination, or simply more breathing room from distressing thoughts is often described.
How Many Treatments Are Typically Needed?
Ketamine therapy usually begins with a short series of infusions—often six sessions spread over two to three weeks. This is known as the “induction” phase. After that, some patients move into a maintenance protocol, receiving infusions every few weeks or months based on how they’re doing.
Treatment plans are personalized. Your care team will monitor your progress, adjust timing as needed, and help you determine what’s most effective.
Is Ketamine Infusion Safe? Who Is (and Isn’t) a Good Candidate?
When administered in a licensed clinic under proper supervision, ketamine infusion therapy is generally considered safe. That said, not everyone is eligible for this treatment.
There are several esketamine contraindications to be aware of. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure, a history of psychosis, or an active substance use disorder may not be good candidates. That’s why a full clinical evaluation is conducted before starting any treatment. Your safety and long-term well-being guide every decision at PMC Heal.
A New Path Forward
For many, ketamine infusion represents a turning point. It’s a therapy that offers speed, science, and compassion to people who’ve been living under the weight of anxiety or depression for too long. It’s not experimental but rather a carefully administered option that helps individuals feel like themselves again.
If you’re wondering whether this approach could be right for you, the next step is simple: talk with a provider who understands both your concerns and the science behind this treatment. Contact PMC Heal today to schedule a consultation and explore what’s possible.
