Question 1

What is ketamine?

Accepted Answer

Initially developed as an anesthetic, this FDA-approved powerful medication has been used in the medical field since the 1960s.  The use of ketmaine is now well beyond the field of anesthesia into pain and mental illness.  At subanesthetic doses, it delivers remarkably rapid and effective relief, setting it apart from traditional treatments.

Question 2

What conditions does ketamine treat?

Accepted Answer

At New Mindscape, we offer ketamine therapy as a treatment option for individuals struggling with severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain - along with many other conditions. Ketamine has shown promising results in providing relief for those who have not responded to traditional treatments. Our experienced team will assess your specific needs and develop a customized treatment plan to help you achieve mental wellness and improved quality of life.

Question 3

Is ketamine safe?

Accepted Answer

When taken as prescribed by a medical provider, low dose ketamine is considered safe and well tolerated.  Recreational usage of ketamine is strongly disscourage as the quality of the medicine is uncertain and may be laced with harmful substances.  The contraindciations to ketamine therapy are a history psychosis, heart arrythimas and uncontrolled high blood pressure.  Before being approved for a treatment plan at New Mindscape you will be medically assessed to be sure you are a good fit for our program.  Your well being is our top priority.

Question 4

Can I keep taking my medications?

Accepted Answer

You can continue to take your medications as prescribed.  No known medication interactions with low dose ketamine exists. There is a short list of medications that have the potential to enhance or dampen ketamine’s effects. In this case we might have you space out your medications accordingly.  Antidepressants and antianxiety medications are not on this list and can continue to be taken while undergoing ketamine therapy.

Question 5

How does the treatment feel?

Accepted Answer

As the ketamine lozenge dissolves under your tongue you will start to feel its effects within ten to fifteen minutes.  Most people report a feeling of calm.  You may feel a separtion of mind and body, as if you are floating.  Each experience is individual, but typically lasts 30-40 minutes. While the medicine's effects start to dissipate is a great time to reflect on what insights were revealed to you.  We are huge advocates of journaling and provide templates for you to utilize.

Question 6

Will I experience side effects?

Accepted Answer

During your treatment plan we will track and adjust your dose based on how you feel.   On a rare occasion patients report mild lightheadedness and nausea, which can easily be reduced by adjusting your dosage or taking zofran which we can prescribe.  The majority of our patients report no side effects.

Question 7

How soon will I benefit from treatment?

Accepted Answer

Our low dose ketamine treatment elicits immediate effects which are enhanced as you continue the 6 week treatment protocol.  You will see slow and steady improvement in your mental health.  Overall patients have reported their treatment to be effective.  The patients who partook in the holistic program which included nutritional guidance reported the most change, however all patients seemed to benefit from even the ketamine on its own.

Question 8

How long do the effects last?

Accepted Answer

Each session lasts about 30-45 minutes.

Question 9

Can I drive after a ketamine session?

Accepted Answer

No.  We highly discourage driving after your session and advise to wait until the next day to do so.

Question 10

What do I need to do to prepare for a session?

Accepted Answer

Refrain from drinking alcohol or using any substances 24 hours before your session. Get a good night's sleep and only eat a light snack 2 hours before your session. Stay hydrated.  Check in with your New Mindscape team if you are conducting your session in your own home, otherwise you will be connected at our office.  We encourage you to take a few minutes before your session to journal how you are feeling, as well as after.  Make sure the rest of your day is planned out so you will not have to drive yourself anywhere.

Question 11

How many treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

Studies have shown that 4-6 weeks of treatment with low does ketamine (4-6 sessions) result in significant improvement of anxiety and depression symptoms.

Question 12

Will insurance cover the costs?

Accepted Answer

Currently, ketamine therapy is not covered by insurance.  HSA and FSA funds can be used to purchase the medication itself.

FAQ's

Frequently asked questions