- Relax the mind, awaken the spirit
- 205-557-2253
- 205-377-0692
- Our Locations
Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that, at lower doses, can rapidly relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. It works by modulating the brain’s glutamate system and promoting synaptic growth and plasticity—essentially “rebooting” parts of the brain involved in mood and perception.
Yes, when administered by trained professionals in a monitored setting, ketamine therapy is very safe. It has been used in clinical practice for decades and is now supported by growing research in mental health and pain management.
IV (intravenous) ketamine infusions deliver ketamine directly into the bloodstream through a vein using a controlled pump. This method allows for precise dosage adjustment in real-time and is typically administered over a period of 40 to 60 minutes.
The slow, steady delivery helps maintain consistent blood levels of ketamine, which can be important for minimizing side effects and optimizing the therapeutic effect.
Clinicians often prefer IV infusions for patients who need carefully titrated doses or who are just beginning ketamine treatment. It also allows the care team to stop or adjust the infusion immediately if a patient has an adverse reaction.
Because of its high level of control, IV is often considered the gold standard in ketamine therapy, especially in clinical settings treating mood disorders, chronic pain, or PTSD.
IM (intramuscular) ketamine injections involve administering the drug directly into a muscle, usually the thigh or upper arm.
The onset of effects is rapid—typically within 5 to 10 minutes—and the entire appointment usually takes less time than an IV infusion. IM is often chosen for its simplicity, requiring less equipment and setup.
However, unlike IV infusions, IM injections do not allow for real-time adjustments. Once the dose is administered, it cannot be reversed or slowed down.
That said, many patients tolerate IM well and find it a more convenient and less expensive option, particularly those in maintenance treatment who already know how they respond to ketamine.
SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved intranasal formulation of the S-enantiomer of ketamine, designed for rapid absorption and onset of antidepressant effects—often within 24 hours of the first dose.
Administration occurs in a certified clinic under a REMS program, where patients self-administer the spray and are observed for at least two hours to monitor vital signs and manage side effects.
Treatment starts with twice-weekly induction sessions, then shifts to weekly or biweekly maintenance dosing alongside an oral antidepressant.
Compounded Nasal Ketamine is a specially prepared nasal spray that delivers ketamine directly through the nasal passages, offering a convenient alternative to IV infusions.
It’s often used for maintenance therapy after initial in-clinic treatments or for patients who cannot access infusion centers regularly.
Although this formulation is not FDA-approved, it is prescribed by physicians and filled by compounding pharmacies under strict clinical oversight to ensure quality, dosing accuracy, and patient safety.
Contact Southern Mind and Wellness today to see if compounded nasal ketamine maintenance therapy is right for you.
Most patients start with a series of 6 infusions over 2–3 weeks, followed by maintenance treatments as needed. Nasal ketamine may be introduced after this induction phase for ongoing symptom control. Nasal ketamine can also be used in place of IV ketamine therapy with the same treatment schedule.
Some patients feel better within hours of their first treatment, especially those with depression or suicidal ideation. For others, it may take several sessions to notice improvement.
These effects usually subside shortly after the session ends. Our medical professionals will monitor you throughout your treatment and treat these side effects if they were to occur.
Ketamine can be misused recreationally, but in a clinical setting under controlled doses and medical supervision, the risk of dependence is low.
Most insurance plans do not cover ketamine for mood disorders, as it is considered an “off-label” use. We can provide superbills for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
Prices vary depending on the route of administration and the condition being treated. An IV mood infusion is $375 while an IV pain infusion is $675. A compounded nasal ketamine administration is $175.
Yes. You should not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day after your treatment.
We recommend avoiding food for at least 4 hours and liquids for 2 hours prior to your session to reduce nausea risk.
You can be one step closer to finding the relief you are looking for. Dealing with the symptoms of depression, PTSD, OCD, anxiety, and chronic pain can be hard. Starting today, it doesn’t have to be. Request more information and learn if ketamine treatment is right for you. The information and consultation are free. There is hope. We can help.