Ketamine Therapy: Commonly Asked Questions

Ketamine therapy is a relatively new treatment option for mental health conditions, and many people have questions about how it works and what to expect. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about ketamine therapy:

How does ketamine therapy work?

In short, ketamine therapy works by inducing a very powerful process known as neuroplasticity–the growth of nerves and rewiring of brain circuits. 

What conditions can ketamine therapy treat? 

Ketamine therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and bipolar disorder and more.

How is ketamine therapy administered? 

At WellCentric Health in Reno, Nevada, ketamine therapy is administered intravenously (IV) over a forty minute period and supervised by Dr. Watson in a clinical setting.  A series of five or more infusions are spread over two and half or more weeks based on your individual need.

What are the potential side effects of ketamine therapy? 

Side effects of ketamine are rare, but few may get nauseated.  Blood pressure may go up during the treatment but comes back down as the ketamine metabolizes.

Do I need to take time off work for ketamine therapy?

We do not recommend that you return to work the day of your infusion, but work can resume as usual in the days following treatment.

Is ketamine therapy covered by insurance? 

Some insurance companies do provide coverage for ketamine therapy, most do not, but it’s important to check with your provider to determine coverage options.

How long does the antidepressant effect of ketamine therapy last? 

The effects of ketamine therapy can last for several weeks or months, depending on the individual patient and their specific condition.  Dr. Watson will help you learn how to maximize your benefit from the ketamine therapy. 

Is ketamine therapy addictive? 

Ketamine therapy is not addictive when administered in a clinical setting under the supervision of a trained medical professional. However, recreational use of ketamine can lead to psychological addiction and other serious health risks, especially if it has been contaminated.

Ketamine Therapy at WellCentric Health in Reno, Nevada

If you’re considering ketamine therapy, it’s important to talk to a ketamine prescribing physician to determine if it’s a good option for you. With proper care and monitoring, ketamine therapy can provide remarkably effective relief for many mental health conditions. If you have any questions, please contact WellCentric Health in Reno, Nevada. Our friendly staff is happy to help you decide if ketamine therapy may help improve your quality life.