Ketamine infusion is administered intravenously at measured doses (commonly 0.5 mg per kg) over a supervised 50-minute session while the patient remains awake and monitored by anaesthetic staff.

Because patients still retain the ability to protect their own airways, breathe normally and usually experience no significant cardiovascular effects, our infusions are considered safe compared with several other anaesthetic agents. The dose you will receive is given as a controlled infusion over 50 minutes for depression and 3 – 4 hours for chronic pain conditions.

Even though these infusions have a good safety profile, we exercise every caution, and your infusion will be given by doctors and nurses with appropriate training and immediate access to emergency medication and equipment.

During the infusion, modern equipment will monitor your pulse rate, heart tracing, oxygen level, breathing, and blood pressure.

Everybody’s experience is unique. The majority of patients have a peaceful, uplifting, and even exciting experience during each infusion. Many experience feelings of empathy and empowerment.

Usually, there is a floating, rotating feeling with wonderful varied colours and images. Very few patients might have an unpleasant, even frightening experience. This is usually limited to the first infusion and by no means suggests that the infusions won’t work. Usually, subsequent infusions are completely different. A few patients feel nauseous, but we have medication on hand to address this.

Absolutely. Do not stop any of your medication unless instructed to do so, and keep your appointments with your psychiatrist, psychologist or GP. After our infusions, cognitive behavioural therapy is generally more effective and should be continued.

Yes, our infusions can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes other medical treatments and psychotherapy.

Many patients find that the infusions enhance the effectiveness of their ongoing therapies, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or medication management. It’s important to discuss all your current treatments with our team to ensure the best possible integrated care approach.

Most patients feel ready to resume normal activities within a few hours after the infusion, though we advise against driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours following the treatment. As a precaution, a responsible adult should accompany you home and stay with you for a few hours after the infusion.

Remember that, like any of the traditional antidepressant and mood-stabilising agents, our infusions are not a cure for depression or chronic pain conditions, but it is usually an effective treatment. You may even be able to cut down on your other medication after receiving infusions, but only if advised to do so by your doctor. Most of our patients will benefit from ‘top-up’ infusions – seldom more frequently than monthly and often only once every 6-months or a year.