Ketamine IV Therapy

Ketamine is a powerful medical anesthetic that has been used since the Vietnam War. Recent research has revealed it to be a powerful treatment for chronic pain and psychiatric illnesses, including depression and anxiety. At Fountain of Youth Medical Spa, Victor Mendoza, MD, Umut Tufan, MD, and the team offer ketamine IV therapy to patients in and around Birmingham, Alabama. The carefully curated treatment helps you overcome pain and psychological ailments resistant to other treatments. Call the office to learn more about ketamine IV therapy, or request a consultation online today. 

What is ketamine infusion therapy?

Ketamine infusion therapy involves administering small doses of ketamine, an anesthetic with some psychedelic properties, via IV. It may be appropriate for people with:

• Depression
• Chronic pain
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Anxiety

Ketamine infusion starts to act on certain brain receptors almost immediately. It stimulates a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation known as glutamate. When ketamine stimulates glutamate, and other neural pathways, symptoms of pain and mental disorders subside.

Who is a candidate for ketamine infusions?

Ketamine treatments are part of the extensive services offered by Dr. Chekka at Opulence Modern Medical Artistry. It’s offered only with a referral from your existing medical team, which may include a general care physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist.

Dr. Chekka discusses your care with these doctors. If you do not have a current medical provider, the office can provide you with a list of providers in the area who are knowledgeable and can tell you if you qualify for ketamine therapy. The use of ketamine infusions for depression or chronic pain is “off-label,” meaning it is not approved by the FDA – so every precaution is used in its administration.

What should I expect during ketamine therapy?

Ketamine infusions are given via IV over 1-4 hours. The Opulence Modern Medical Artistry team monitors you regularly during this treatment to ensure you experience no side effects and are comfortable. You need to arrange a ride home.

Once treatment is over, Dr. Chekka monitors you for two hours before you’re discharged. You sleep well the night of your infusion, but shouldn’t need to take time off work or activities the day after a ketamine infusion.

Alternatively, Dr. Chekka may administer the nasal esketamine spray, Spravato™. It’s an FDA-approved treatment for treatment-resistant depression.

When will I see results from ketamine infusions?

The positive effects of your treatment may show up within an hour of your first treatment. Complete the recommended series of treatments to achieve optimal results. Dr. Chekka may recommend occasional follow-up treatments to maintain your results.

If you think you might benefit from ketamine infusions, call Opulence Modern Medical Artistry, or book a consultation online.