Menu
Frequently Asked Questions About Ketamine Therapy
Below you can search through some of the most frequently asked questions about Ketamine therapy. If you cannot find what you're looking for, please contact us and we would be happy to assist you.
How does Ketamine work?
Ketamine has been shown to stimulate neuron growth in the brain in as quickly as one hour. Scientists studying Ketamine have been focusing on the neurotransmitter glutamate, which plays an important role in this. Ketamine works to relieve pain by inhibiting the N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors on nerve cells, particularly active in hyperalgesia states.
Will my insurance cover Ketamine treatments?
Ketamine Therapy is currently not covered by most insurance plans because it is considered an "off-label" use of the medication. We have seen some coverage for Veterans, Firefighters and RCMP with a diagnosis of PTSD. Please reach out to your individual insurance provider for more information.
Do I need a referral to be considered for Ketamine Therapy?
Yes, services provided by the Coastal Ketamine Clinic do require a referral from your licensed physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or nurse practitioner. You can find our referral form here.
Do I need to stop any of my current treatments?
You do not need to stop any of your current treatment regimines. The staff at the Coastal Ketamine Clinic will review your medical history, and potentially collaborate with your general practitioner to determine the best course of treatment.
Are there any contraindications for Ketamine Therapy?
Currently there is a major contraindication to Ketamine for those suffering from psychotic disorders. This would include those who suffer from conditions that involve hallucinations or delusions.
Is Ketamine safe?
Ketamine administration in our medical clinic is provided and supervised by our highly trained medical staff. One of the most common side effects during treatment is a sense of dissociation, or disconnection from yourself or your surroundings. This disappears soon after the treatment is complete. Other common side effects may include headache, nausea, or a slight increase in blood pressure or heart rate. These side effects can usually be easily managed well within the calm, relaxed environment of our clinic.
How many Ketamine treatments will I require?
For mental health conditions, the initial treatment series of Ketamine therapy consists of 6 treatments over a course of 3 weeks (2 treatments per week). After the initial treatment protocol is complete, our staff will assess individual patient need for ongoing maintenance therapy. Follow-up or “booster” doses are provided on an as-needed basis. For chronic pain, the required initial treatment series consists of 1 treatment per month, for 3 months. Maintenance doses are also tailored after this by a treating physician, depending on your individual response.
How long will the effects of Ketamine last?
The long-term effects in individuals who have responded to Ketamine therapy are not yet fully known. The response to Ketamine therapy, and the duration of the response is unique for every patient. In general, most patients achieve improvements in their symptoms for a short period of time. Evidence has shown improvement in symptoms of mental health conditions and chronic pain for weeks, months or even longer. Those individuals who show the most sustained improvement are actively involved in comprehensive care. Some individuals may require booster sessions to maintain their feelings of wellness. These maintenance doses will be determined in conjunction with the treating physician, depending on your individual response.
What is the success rate of Ketamine?
Approximately 70-80% of patients respond to Ketamine therapy.
Is it safe for me to drive home following a Ketamine treatment?
No. You are considered legally impaired for 24 hours following Ketamine administration. Patients should not engage in potentially hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination, such as driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery, for 24 hours after a Ketamine treatment, following a restful sleep. It is also important that you do not make any important legal decisions, sign any important documents, or be the responsible caregiver for anyone older or younger during this time period.
Do you offer any kind of financing?
No. The Coastal Ketamine Clinic does not currently offer any type of financing.
What is your privacy policy?
Our Privacy Policy is designed to comply, where applicable, with Canadian and other international laws and regulations concerning protection and security of confidential information, including protected health information.
What is the age limit?
We provide treatment for adult patients 18 years of age and older, following a consultation with our medical team.