Is Ketamine Therapy Safe?
Jan 15, 2025
Ketamine therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking treatment for mental health conditions, particularly depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. Originally developed as an anesthetic in the 1960s, ketamine has found a new purpose in psychiatry, offering hope for those who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.
Here at New England Institute for Neurology and Headache, our team is professionally trained in ketamine therapy, so we have the expertise to offer insight into what it does and how safe it is.
Is ketamine therapy safe? The short answer is yes — when administered under medical supervision. We provide ketamine therapy in our controlled clinical setting where only our trained healthcare professionals administer treatment, ensuring its safety and effectiveness. However, it comes with risks and considerations that you should understand.
Ketamine has been extensively studied and used for many years in medical settings, most significantly as a surgical anesthetic. When repurposed for mental health treatments, it’s administered in much lower doses through intravenous (IV) infusions, intranasal sprays, or oral tablets. These lower doses significantly reduce the risk of side effects commonly associated with anesthesia-level administration.
Side effects during ketamine therapy are generally mild and short-lived. They may include dizziness, nausea, increased heart rate, or mild dissociation. Dissociation, often described as feeling detached from reality, is a common effect of ketamine, but it typically subsides within an hour after the session. We monitor you closely throughout your treatment to manage any adverse reactions promptly.
Despite its promising benefits, ketamine therapy isn’t suitable for everyone. If you have a history of certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension, severe heart disease, or substance misuse, you may not be an ideal candidate. We perform a thorough medical evaluation before starting treatment to ensure that ketamine therapy is safe and appropriate.
Another important consideration is the potential for misuse. Ketamine is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a moderate risk for dependency if used improperly. However, this risk is minimal when administered in our controlled, clinical environment.
Ketamine therapy’s safety hinges on professional oversight. Our team is equipped to monitor you during sessions and provide a comprehensive care plan tailored to your needs that includes:
We aim to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.
If you or a loved one is considering this ketamine therapy, book a consultation with one of our trusted mental health practitioners to discuss your options and determine whether ketamine therapy is right for you. By prioritizing safety and professional oversight, this innovative treatment can offer a pathway to healing and renewed hope.
Book online today, or call our friendly office staff during business hours at our locations in Stanford or Westport, Connecticut, to schedule an appointment.