Preparing for Treatment
Patients should consider how they plan to prepare for ketamine treatment and care for themselves afterward. Below are a few suggestions to help frame out an action plan. Bear in mind that each clinic is different and has different tools available for patients to help prepare for treatment. Patients are encouraged to reach out to their provider to better understand their recommendations as part of their appointment.
Before Treatment
- Set up appointments ahead of time and try not to wait until last minute to head to the clinic
- Set appointments during the same time of day and week, if possible
- It can be helpful to try to relax the several days prior to the treatment with calming activities
- If the patient is working with a therapist outside of ketamine treatment, it can be beneficial to schedule a therapy appointment 24-48 hours after the ketamine appointment
- Limit/avoid illicit drugs or alcohol prior to appointment
- Check with the ketamine provider if they will provide a music playlist during treatment or if there is an option for the patient to bring their own
- Try to Get a good night sleep the night prior to treatment
- Try to Drink plenty of water
- Have a conversation with loved ones regarding managing post-appointment discussions and activities – i.e. no major decisions or discussing controversial topics
During Treatment
- Do not eat or drink (water ok) within four hours of the appointment
- Go to the bathroom just prior to treatment
- Wear comfortable clothes and socks to stay warm
- Consider bringing an eye mask and headphones for music
- Get comfortable – ask the provider if they provide blankets, pillows, etc. or if the patient should bring their own for treatment
- If loved one sitting with the patient, position a chair close by prior to treatment
- Find a comfortable setting for music/TV – sounds exaggerate during treatment, keep the volume low
- Update the provider about changes to medication or day-to-day life and schedule the next appointment
- It can be helpful to focus on positive thoughts or setting an intention at the start of the treatment
- Go with the flow as dissociation sets in and try not to resist losing control over one’s body
After Treatment
- Get something to eat
- Take a nap
- Ensure a loved one is nearby for at least 12-24 hours post treatment to help, if needed
- If possible, try to focus on relaxing/calming activities for several days post treatment
- Reach out to support groups and/or personal networks if they are supportive of the patient and their treatment process
- Some Patients find it helpful to talk with a trusted friend or family member about their treatment and what came up during the appointment
- Avoid alcohol for at least two weeks
- Continue to take medications as instructed by doctor
- Keep in touch with the medical team, particularly if feeling worse post treatment – Note, some patients find they feel worse before they feel better, so it is important for patients to engage with their provider and continue with follow-up appointments as recommended.
- Reach out to ketamine provider immediately if experiencing suicidal ideation
Additional Resources and Articles
Improving Ketamine Mileage: Ideal ketamine treatment is in a safe and supervised setting. This article highlights some simple ways to get the most out of every ketamine treatment.