Ketamine Infusion Therapy: How Long Do Side Effects Last and What to Expect?

Recently, there has been increasing interest in Ketamine infusion therapy as a novel treatment option for patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression. This new type of therapy offers hope for those who are not responsive to traditional antidepressants. However, estimating the duration of therapeutic benefits and side effects of ketamine remains a difficult challenge for patients considering this treatment.

The Basics of Ketamine Infusion Therapy

Ketamine is mainly used as an anesthetic, but it has shown potent antidepressant effects. It acts through the blockade of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is involved in the modulation of the mood. In addition, ketamine increases the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and stimulates the mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway, both of which are involved in the processes of neural growth and repair.

Novel studies have also indicated that ketamine has some antiinflammatory activity, which correspondingly may augment its antidepressant effects. Since inflammation is associated with depression, the ability of ketamine to reduce inflammation might be another reason for its effectiveness in treating mood disorders.

How Ketamine Works in Treating Depression

Perhaps the most remarkable benefit of ketamine is it’s rapid relief of depressive symptoms, especially in patients who have not benefitted from other therapies. By influencing the functional connectivity and the activity of various neurotransmitters, ketamine can help decrease low mood, anhedonia, and even suicidal ideation.

Ketamine, besides from being studied for treatment of depression, is also being researched for chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain. Its analgesic properties, which help in the treating of persistent pain disorders, assist in changing one’s perception of pain.

How Long Do Ketamine Infusion Side Effects Last?

Consider the Following When Estimating Side Effect Duration

There is variability as far as duration of side effects of a ketamine infusion, however, the most common factors are:

• Dosage and infusion rate – Side effects tend to last longer for higher doses or faster infusions.
• Individual’s metabolism – Some individuals metabolize ketamine a lot quicker than others.
• Medical history – Current medical conditions may dictate the length of time side effects may last.
• Other medications – Other medications might extend or lessen the effect of ketamine.

The Most Common Side Effects and How Long They Last

With most side effects, the patient may need to wait a few hours for them to subside, as is the case with the rest of ketamine infusion side effects. Some examples include the following:

• Dizziness and Disorientation – Will resolve by 1–2 hours after the infusion.
• Nausea – Usually mild and manageable, but may last up to a few hours.
• Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate – Returns to normal within 30–60 minutes.
• Dissociation or Altered Perception – Can last up to 1–2 hours after the infusion.

In more rare cases, individuals may have side effects lingering for a day or two, with more mild headaches and mood fluctuations. However, the adverse effects remaining are not so severe when the ketamine is dosed in a precise manner within a controlled environment.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy’s Duration and Effectiveness 

What’s the Duration of a Ketamine Infusion Session? 

Usually, a ketamine infusion session would last anywhere between 40 to 60 minutes, as other factors such as the patient’s medical history and requirements will need to be taken into consideration. During the session, a team of medical professionals on site will monitor the patient to ensure their safety and the efficiency of treatment.

Short and Long Term Effects

One of the most profound features of ketamine infusion therapy is its fast-working nature. Many patients claim to feel relief from depressive symptoms a few hours or several days after their first session. However, the long-term benefits usually require multiple sessions to accrue. While some patients experience long-lasting improvement, others may need to receive maintenance infusions periodically to avoid relapse.

Measuring Treatment Outcome

The success of a Ketamine Infusion Therapy treatment is normally assessed with the help of the following indicators:

• Improvement in how the patient feels and their general energy level.
• Reduction of patient’s constant thoughts of self-harm.
• Improvement in a patient’s ability to think clearly or pay attention.
• Relief of symptoms, according to the patient.

Self-reports and regular check-ups with the healthcare professional are used to assess the patient’s wellbeing and whether the therapy has worked or if changes are required.

Post-Therapy Care and Maintenance

Altered Behaviour After Therapy

To alleviate and control any side effects that remain, patients are often instructed to:

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids following their session.
• Postpone driving or usage of heavy machinery for no less than 24 hours.
• Adhere to their provider’s advice regarding medication or side effect management.
• Partake in adjunct therapies, including talk therapy or mindfulness, to further compliment the effects of ketamine.

Post Procedure care is essential to ensure patient recovery, health care professionals need to work closely with the patients to make sure treatment plans are modified accordingly. The patient checks that are done ensure that if ketamine treatment is used, it is still effective for the patient and that if there are any new problems they are dealt with properly. 

Ketamine infusion therapy is known to be safe in most cases, but certain risks should be kept in mind, including:

• short term cognitive deficits
• mild anxiousness or slight restlessness after infusion
• bladder irritation is rare, but can occur after prolonged use.

Risk reduction steps must be taken to ensure the patients health is put safely first; during the procedure nurse anesthetists are available, and the infusion is given in a controlled clinical setting where patient vitals and clinical condition can be safely attended to. 

Although the side effects are bothersome, they are easy to deal with, however, understanding the effects of the dose concerning the duration can be helpful for these patients. If you’re considering ketamine treatment in New Jersey, Do not let problems become embarrassing, reach out to Neuroplasticity MD for the comprehensive mental health assessment today, and explore further treatment possibilities so you can find a personalized solution plan.