Ketamine infusion therapy is one of the most effective treatments available for depression, especially for patients who have not responded to traditional antidepressants. If you're considering ketamine for the first time, it's natural to have questions — and to feel a mix of hope and uncertainty. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect.
Before Your First Infusion
Your ketamine journey begins with a thorough consultation. Our team will review your medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and treatment goals. Not everyone is a candidate for ketamine — certain medical conditions and medications can affect safety and efficacy, and we take this screening process seriously.
In the days before your infusion, you'll be asked to fast beforehand, avoid alcohol, and arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. We'll provide detailed pre-treatment instructions tailored to your specific situation.
Arriving at Desert Sands
On the day of your infusion, you'll be welcomed into our calm, comfortable treatment environment. We intentionally create a setting that feels very different from a typical medical office — low lighting, comfortable recliners, and a quiet atmosphere designed to support the ketamine experience.
Your vital signs will be taken, an IV line will be placed, and you'll have a chance to ask any remaining questions before treatment begins. Many patients listen to music or a guided meditation during the infusion, which can enhance the experience.
During the Infusion
The infusion itself typically takes 40 to 60 minutes, during which ketamine is delivered at a precisely calculated dose through the IV. You'll remain awake and conscious throughout, though you'll likely feel a sense of dissociation — a dreamlike detachment from your surroundings.
Common experiences include mild perceptual changes, a floating sensation, and a feeling of profound calm. These effects are temporary and resolve within 15 to 30 minutes of the infusion ending. Our clinical team is present throughout to monitor your comfort and safety.
After Your Infusion and the Road Ahead
Most patients are able to leave within an hour of the infusion ending, once vital signs are stable and they feel oriented. You will need a driver — you cannot drive or operate machinery for the remainder of the day.
The standard initial protocol is a series of six infusions delivered over two to three weeks. Many patients notice meaningful improvement after the second or third infusion. Our team will work closely with you to monitor your progress and optimize your treatment plan.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Contact Desert Sands Ketamine Treatment Center to schedule your free consultation and learn if ketamine is right for you.
Request a Free ConsultationCall (435) 522-5190