Frequently Asked Questions

Is ketamine therapy safe for chronic pain treatment?
‍Yes, when administered by medical professionals in a clinical setting, it is very safe. We use doses that are significantly lower than those used in hospital operating rooms. Throughout your visit, we use medical monitors to track your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Our staff is trained to manage any side effects immediately, providing a controlled environment that is far safer than trying to manage severe pain with high doses of home medications.

‍How is ketamine for pain management different from its usein surgery or mental health care?
‍The difference lies in the dose and the duration of the infusion. In surgery, high doses are used to induce a deep sleep. In mental health, sessions are often short, lasting about forty minutes. However, for chronic pain, the infusions are much longer, often lasting two to four hours. This prolonged exposure is necessary to help quiet the over active NMDA receptors and address the physical nerve pathways that contribute to long-term suffering.

‍What types of pain respond best to ketamine therapy?
‍This therapy is particularly helpful for centralized pain or nerve-based conditions. This includes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), peripheral neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. It is also highly effective for patients with severe migraines or those who have developed a high tolerance to opioid medications. If your pain feels like burning, tingling, or extreme sensitivity to touch, you may be a strong candidate for this approach.
‍Also Read: Headache and Migraine Treatment in Los Angeles: Finding Lasting Relief at The Pain Free Institute

‍How quickly do patients feel relief after treatment?
‍The timeline forrelief varies from person to person. Some individuals feel a noticeable decrease in their pain levels with in twenty-four hours of their first or second session. For others, the benefits are cumulative, meaning the relief builds slowly as you move through your initial series of infusions. We track your progress closely to see how your body responds and adjust the plan to help you find comfort as soon as possible.

‍How long do ketamine results typically last?
‍While ketamine is not a permanent cure, it can provide significant relief that lasts much longer than daily pills. Many patients enjoy a period of reduced pain lasting several weeks or even several months after completing their initial series. The goal is to create a window of comfort that allows you to return to physical therapy, work, and the hobbies you enjoy, which further helps in long-term recovery.

‍Will I need ongoing treatments to maintain relief?
‍Most patients benefit from a maintenance plan. After the initial round of infusions, you might return for a single booster session every few months. These sessions help reinforce the reset of your nervous system and prevent pain levels from climbing back up. We work with you to find the longest possible gap between treatments while still keeping your symptoms under control.

‍What does ketamine feel like during a session?
‍Most people describe the experience as very relaxing and peaceful. You may feel a sense of heaviness in your limbs or a feeling of floating. Some patients notice mild changes in their vision or how they perceive sounds. Because you are in aquiet, private room, most people find it helpful to listen to calm music and rest. The dreamy feeling wears off quickly once the infusion is complete.

‍Are there side effects I should be concerned about?
‍The side effects are generally mild and go away shortly after the IV is removed. You might feeldizzy, nauseated, or slightly blurred in your vision for about an hour. We can provide additional medicine during the session to prevent nausea if you are sensitive to it. There are no long-term hangover effects, though we require youto rest and avoid driving for the rest of the day to stay safe.

‍Who is not a good candidate for ketamine therapy?
‍While it is safe for most, we carefully screen every patient. Those with certain heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of psychosis may not be cleared for treatment. Additionally, if you are currently pregnant or have severe liver disease, we may look at other ways to manage your pain. A full medical review is conducted during your consultation to look at these factors.

‍Can ketamine help if other pain treatments have failed?
‍Yes, and this is often when ketamine is most helpful. Many standard pain medications target the same pathways, which is why they often stop working over time. Ketamine targets the NMDA receptor, a completely different part of the pain system. By addressing the "wind-up" phenomenon in the nerves where other drugs cannot, it can provide relief for patients who have run out of choices.

‍Can ketamine therapy becombined with other pain treatments?
‍Yes. Ketamine therapy often works best as part of a broader care plan. Many patients continue physical therapy, gentle exercise, or other non-opioid treatments along side infusions. We coordinate with your existing providers to ensure everything works together safely and effectively.

‍Will ketamine affect mypersonality or mental clarity long-term?
‍No. Ketamine doesnot change who you are or how you think once it leaves your system. Any dreamy or altered sensations occur only during the infusion and fade shortly afterward. Patients return to their normal mental state the same day.

‍Is this treatment appropriatefor older adults?
‍Age alone does not disqualify you. Many older adults benefit from ketamine therapy, especially when pain limits mobility or independence. What matters most is your overall health and medical history, which we carefully review during your consultation.

‍What should I do to preparefor an infusion session?
‍You will receive specific instructions, but most patients are asked to avoid eating for a few hours before treatment and to arrange a ride home. Wearing comfortable clothing and bringing calming music can help make the session more relaxing.

‍How do you measure whetherthe treatment is working?
‍We track changes in pain levels, sleep quality, daily function, and medication use over time. These markers help us understand how your body is responding and guide adjustments to your treatment plan so care remains personalized and effective.