What IV Ketamine treats.
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Bipolar depression (with appropriate co-management)
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Severe anxiety in select cases
- Certain chronic pain syndromes (CRPS, neuropathic pain)
The mechanism.
IV ketamine works through NMDA receptor antagonism, rapidly modulating glutamate signaling and promoting synaptic plasticity in brain regions involved in mood regulation. Unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks to work, many patients experience symptom relief within hours to days of their first infusion. IV ketamine for psychiatric indications is used off-label and requires careful patient selection by a prescribing physician.
Your IV Ketamine infusion experience.
Each ketamine infusion is administered slowly over approximately 40 minutes, with continuous vital sign monitoring and total visit time of about 90 minutes including observation. Most protocols begin with a series of 6 infusions over 2–3 weeks, followed by maintenance infusions as clinically indicated. You may experience mild dissociative effects during the infusion, which resolve quickly afterward. You cannot drive following an infusion and must have a ride home arranged.
Insurance & out-of-pocket cost.
IV Ketamine is covered by most commercial insurance and Medicare Part B when prescribed by your physician for an FDA-approved indication. We verify your benefits before your first infusion and handle prior authorization on your behalf. Most commercially insured patients pay only their standard specialty copay — typically $20–$100 per visit. Manufacturer copay assistance programs may further reduce your cost.