Thinking About Ketamine Therapy? Ask Your Doctor These Five Questions

Are you looking into ketamine therapy? It is important to approach this treatment with an informed mindset. Asking the right questions can help you to make well-informed decisions about your treatment options.

To ensure that you are equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this therapeutic path effectively, here are five important questions to ask your doctor before starting your ketamine therapy.

5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Ketamine Therapy

1. How long have you been providing ketamine treatments?

Before beginning ketamine therapy, it is crucial to check the credentials and track record of the clinic and staff. Since ketamine therapy is relatively new to Ontario, ask your provider about their experience before they began providing ketamine treatment.

Make sure you choose a provider who is as dedicated to your health as you are. Taking this step can provide peace of mind and confidence as you embark on your treatment journey.

2. Are you present to give the right dose of ketamine?

Ketamine Infusions are safe under the supervision of doctors trained in the physical and psychological aspects of Ketamine. Ketamine Infusions are supervised, the dose can safely be varied significantly to ensure the patient receives the most therapeutic dose of ketamine. When doctors are not immediately present, only limited doses of Ketamine may be used safely. Unfortunately, this may significantly decrease the effectiveness of Ketamine if you cannot get the right dose.

3. How do I prepare for ketamine therapy?

It is important to ensure that you are ready both mentally and physically for the treatment. By discussing the preparation process with your doctor beforehand, you can maximize the effectiveness of the therapy and minimize any potential risks or complications. For example, illicit drugs and substances, including cigarettes, alcohol, and cannabis, should be avoided before the treatment. These substances can interfere with the effects of ketamine therapy and can also cause a less than optimal outcome or adverse reactions.

4. What are the potential side effects of ketamine therapy?

Ketamine therapy, like any medical treatment, has potential side effects. Some common ones are dissociation, dizziness, nausea or elevated blood pressure. It is also important to understand the rescue measures your doctor will take in the case of severe nausea. If you have a poor outcome, will you be provided with IV fluids or are you on your own? If your blood pressure is too high, what is their protocol for addressing it?

5. What kind of ketamine treatment is best for me?

There are many different methods of administering ketamine, and new methods are coming into popularity each year. Your doctor should perform a comprehensive initial consultation and evaluation to assess the need and the kind of treatment that will most likely benefit you. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach in ketamine treatment.

Begin Your Healing Journey with Caledon Clinic

Ready to start your healing journey? Caledon Clinic’s experienced team can provide the support and expertise you need for a successful ketamine-assisted psychotherapy treatment. We will be by your side every step of the way and the treatment plan will be customized to suit your needs.

Contact us to book a consultation.