What is IV Ketamine Therapy

IV ketamine therapy is a medical treatment where ketamine is delivered through an intravenous (IV) infusion in a controlled clinical setting to rapidly reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD), treatment-resistant depression (TRD), bipolar depression, and sometimes acute suicidal ideation.

As well as other mental health disorders such as PTSD, OCD and Anxiety.  

It is not the same as anesthetic-level ketamine used in hospitals. Instead, it is given at very low, sub-anesthetic doses that target brain receptors linked to mood regulation.

What a Typical Treatment Involves

1. Medical Assessment

A physician evaluates:

• Mental health history

• Physical health

• Contraindications and medications

2. Infusion Sessions

Monitor: blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen, mental status

• Effects: mild dissociation, relaxation, altered sensory perception

3. Course of Treatment

Most evidence-based protocols suggest:

• 6 infusions over 3 weeks (induction phase)

• Maintenance boosters every 2–8 weeks depending on response

4. Integration Therapy (recommended)

Patients often pair ketamine with:

• Psychotherapy

• Behavior change strategies

• Lifestyle modifications

This significantly improves long-term outcomes.

 What to expect at TKC

TKC provides a comfortable environment for your treatment, lasting 1.5 – 2 hours, where you will have the opportunity to explore profound dissociative experiences. Our Staff of experienced Anesthetist, Psychiatrist Nurses and Therapist will help to take you through this patient experience with care and compassion in a safe clinical environment.

Dr Garfinkel discusses treatment resistance and how Ketamine therapy is offering new hope for treating resistant depression.