Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, that is also known to have antidepressant and analgesic properties. As a result, recent research and clinical treatment have used ketamine for the management of psychiatric disorders and chronic pain. Ketamine is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, and although ketamine has a half-life of only 2-3 hours, it has a prolonged beneficial effect.

Studies testing the effects of ketamine infusion therapy on major depressive disorder have shown that ketamine infusion reduces depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts within a 30-40 minute period in approximately 60-75% of patients. Symptoms may improve for 2 weeks or longer following a single infusion. Some research suggests that the effects of repeated ketamine infusions may last up to 6 months. Similarly, studies testing the effects of ketamine infusion therapy on chronic pain have shown that ketamine infusions have pain relieving effects that begin during infusion and may last for several months.

A large body of research has supported the safety of administering low doses of ketamine in a series of infusions. Ketamine is associated with very few drug-drug interactions. In addition, there is no evidence that low-dose ketamine infusion therapy increases the risk of addiction to ketamine or any other substance.

Patients receiving ketamine infusion therapy occasionally report experiencing side effects such as confusion, feelings of inebriation, dizziness, euphoria, elevated blood pressure, increased libido, vivid visions and/or hallucinations, and dissociation. We closely monitor each individual to avoid and manage any adverse events.

No referral is needed. Our licensed psychiatrist and anesthesia team conduct detailed medical assessments to determine whether ketamine infusion therapy may be a good fit for you.

After completing psychiatric and medical evaluations, the Mobile Ketamine Boston staff will come to your location during a scheduled appointment time. Upon arriving, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and a Registered Nurse (RN) will obtain your vital signs and ask you a series questions about your symptoms and health. Next, a small needle (IV) will be inserted to administer the medication. This will take about 40 minutes. Following medication administration, staff will continue to monitor your vital signs, symptoms, and side effects for approximately 1.5 hours.

You must refrain from eating solid food within eight hours of your treatment. Clear liquids are permitted up to two hours before treatments. Continue to take prescription medications as usual leading up to your appointment (exceptions listed in consent). Wear loose, comfortable clothing and have a list of all medications you are taking.

Do not drive, operate machinery, or drink alcohol on the day of your treatment. Avoid physical exertion for the rest of the day and do not make important life decisions while you are receiving or after completion of ketamine infusion therapy sessions. After your treatment, it is important that you are accompanied by a responsible adult for the remainder of the day. Your treatment will be cancelled if there is no responsible person to stay with you after Mobile Ketamine Boston staff leaves your residence. If you are unable to find someone to accompany you, you may notify Mobile Ketamine Boston in advance, and we will provide a Registered Nurse to stay at your home for an added fee.

Typically, ketamine infusion therapy is administered twice a week over a 3-4 week period. However, treatment is individualized to address each patient’s unique condition, needs, and responsiveness to therapy. The interdisciplinary team of providers will continue to monitor progress and adjust treatment accordingly.