Ketamine Infusion Therapy

What is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

Ketamine infusion therapy involves the intravenous (IV) administration of low-dose ketamine to manage chronic pain conditions.

What are the benefits of Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

Ketamine infusion therapy is indicated for moderate to severe chronic pain—particularly with a neuropathic or centrally sensitized component.

Common Indications:
– Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Reduces central sensitization and severe, burning limb pain
– Neuropathic Pain
Diabetic neuropathy
Postherpetic neuralgia
Post-stroke or spinal cord injury-related pain
– Central Sensitization Syndromes
Fibromyalgia (refractory cases)
Chronic widespread pain
– Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia or Tolerance
Helps restore opioid responsiveness
Reduces need for escalating opioid doses

How does Ketamine Infusion Therapy work?

Intravenous (IV) ketamine treats chronic and neuropathic pain by targeting the nervous system in ways that differ from opioids or anti-inflammatories. It is especially useful for central sensitization, where the nervous system becomes hypersensitive to pain signals.

How to prepare for Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

The first step to determine your eligibility to receive a ketamine infusion therapy is to perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history.

-Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, Plavix, Eliquis, warfarin):
You will NOT need to stop them before the procedure
– Medical Clearance (if needed)
If you have heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or infections, your provider may require clearance from your primary doctor or specialist.

What to expect after the procedure?

Ketamine infusion is typically infused over 30–60 minutes (however some protocols may be longer). Typically, a series of infusions is administered over multiple weeks to allow for optimization of therapy.
Patient can report some side effects, such as dissociation or altered perception (“out-of-body” sensation, floaty feeling); changes in vision, sound, or time perception; lightheadedness or drowsiness. These effects are usually temporary and resolve after the infusion ends, and become less severe as the treatment progresses.