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IV Ketamine Therapy in Norcross, GA

IV ketamine therapy

Treatment options for bipolar depression, OCD, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression

Understanding IV Ketamine Therapy

IV Ketamine therapy is an interventional psychiatric treatment option used to support individuals with complex and treatment-resistant mental health conditions, including bipolar depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and anxiety disorders.

This treatment is often considered when symptoms persist despite traditional approaches such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy, or when individuals experience severe or recurrent symptoms that significantly impact daily functioning.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic medication that has been used safely in medical settings for decades. When administered in low, carefully monitored doses, IV ketamine may help reduce symptoms more rapidly for some patients by targeting neurochemical pathways different from those affected by standard antidepressants.

At Georgia Behavioral Health, IV ketamine therapy is offered as part of a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan and is only provided after a thorough psychiatric evaluation by a licensed provider to determine clinical appropriateness and safety.

IV ketamine is used off-label for the treatment of depression and other mental health conditions and is not FDA-approved for these indications. Treatment outcomes vary and are not guaranteed.

How Does IV Ketamine Work?

IV ketamine is administered through an intravenous infusion that delivers a customized dose directly into the bloodstream over approximately 40–60 minutes.

Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin or norepinephrine and may take weeks to show results, ketamine works on the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a role in mood regulation, neuroplasticity, and stress response. This mechanism may help explain why some patients experience symptom improvement more quickly.

IV ketamine is considered one option within an interventional psychiatry approach, which may also include treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or Spravato (esketamine), depending on clinical need.

how does IV ketamine work

The IV Ketamine Treatment Process: What to Expect

01. Initial Screening Appointment

A brief consultation (virtual, phone, or in-person) to review symptoms, treatment history, and determine whether IV ketamine may be appropriate.

02. Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation

A licensed psychiatric provider conducts a full evaluation, including medical history, current medications, and symptom assessment, to confirm candidacy and ensure safety.

03. Treatment Sessions

  • IV ketamine is administered in a controlled clinical setting.
  • Patients remain awake and alert during treatment.
  • Vital signs and overall safety are continuously monitored.

04. Ongoing Care and Follow-Up

Treatment plans are individualized. Some patients complete an induction phase followed by tapering or transition to other treatments, such as TMS or medication adjustments, to support longer-term symptom management.

Is Someone With Me During the Entire Treatment?

Our clinical staff monitors patients 100% of the time during IV ketamine infusions. While many patients prefer that clinicians are not physically in the room for the entire infusion, patients are continuously observed, and staff are immediately available at all times.

How Long Am I in the Clinic?

Most patients spend approximately 2 hours per visit, which includes preparation, infusion, and post-treatment monitoring.

Can IV Ketamine Be Used With TMS or Spravato?

Yes. In some cases, IV ketamine may be used:
  • While waiting for insurance authorization for TMS or Spravato
  • As a short-term option to address severe depressive symptoms
  • As part of a broader interventional treatment plan
All treatment sequencing or combinations are determined following psychiatric evaluation.

What Are Common Side Effects of IV Ketamine?

Side effects are typically temporary and may occur during or shortly after infusion. These can include:

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Temporary increases in blood pressure or heart rate
  • Mild dissociative sensations
If side effects are uncomfortable, medications may be provided, and patients are closely monitored throughout treatment.

Is IV Ketamine Covered by Insurance?

IV ketamine is not typically covered by insurance, as it is not FDA-approved for the treatment of depression. Our team can discuss payment options and answer questions during your consultation.

Who May Benefit From IV Ketamine Therapy?

IV ketamine may be considered for individuals experiencing:
  • Treatment-resistant depression
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD)
  • Depression with suicidal ideation
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Bipolar depression*
  • PTSD*
  • OCD*
  • Eating disorders*
*Use depends on clinical evaluation and appropriateness.
IV ketamine is not a first-line treatment and is generally considered when other evidence-based treatments have not been effective.

FAQs About IV Ketamine Therapy

What is IV ketamine?

IV ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic medication that, when used in low doses under medical supervision, may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. For mental health conditions, ketamine is used off-label.
Some patients notice changes within hours or days, while others experience more gradual improvement. Response varies, and results are not guaranteed.
Treatment plans are individualized. Many patients begin with multiple infusions over several weeks, followed by reassessment and possible tapering or transition to other therapies.

Patients are generally advised not to drive on the day of treatment due to possible temporary side effects. Transportation home should be arranged.

When administered in a clinical setting by trained professionals, IV ketamine is generally considered safe. Patients are monitored continuously throughout treatment.
IV ketamine does not replace comprehensive psychiatric care. It may be used alongside medication management, therapy, TMS, or other treatments depending on individual needs.
No. A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is required to determine whether IV ketamine is clinically appropriate and safe.
No. IV ketamine is not a cure. Some patients experience symptom relief, but outcomes vary and ongoing care is often necessary.
IV ketamine and Spravato differ in FDA approval status, administration method, insurance coverage, and treatment protocols.
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