When it comes to innovative treatments for depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD, ketamine therapy truly leads the pack of quiet revolutions in mental health care. Ketamine infusions offer rapid relief where traditional medications fall short, and ultimately helps thousands of people finally break through the fog of treatment-resistant symptoms. But even as hope rises, a natural question follows: What are the side effects of ketamine therapy?
At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we believe in full transparency and patient education. We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know about ketamine therapy side effects, from common, short-term experiences to long-term safety considerations. When administered properly, IV ketamine therapy is safe, effective, and surprisingly well-tolerated. But like any treatment, it’s important to understand what to expect.
A New Frontier in Mental Health
Before diving into the side effects, let’s revisit what makes ketamine infusion therapy so compelling. In essence, ketamine therapy is changing the way many clinics treat mental disorders, especially when other medications haven’t worked. Unlike SSRIs or SNRIs, which take weeks to take effect, ketamine works within hours by targeting glutamate receptors and encouraging new connections between brain cells.
This makes it an ideal treatment for:
- Major depressive disorder
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Bipolar depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Suicidal ideation
- Severe anxiety symptoms
You can learn more about how ketamine infusions work on our Ketamine Therapy page.
What Are the Most Common Ketamine Therapy Side Effects?
Now, let’s get into it: In a controlled, clinical setting, ketamine treatment is typically well-tolerated. The side effects most commonly occur during or shortly after the infusion and tend to be mild and temporary.
Common short-term side effects include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Dissociation (feeling detached from body or surroundings)
- Nausea or slight stomach discomfort
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
- Fatigue or drowsiness after treatment
- Mild increases in blood pressure or heart rate
Most of these symptoms resolve within 30–60 minutes post-infusion. Patients often describe feeling calm, introspective, or emotionally open during sessions.
All of our patients who receive ketamine infusions are monitored closely by trained clinicians throughout the entire process. Our outpatient treatment rooms are quiet, private, and designed to promote calmness and safety.
What Is Dissociation? Is It Dangerous?
One of the most misunderstood effects of IV ketamine therapy is dissociation. This is a temporary sensation of feeling separated from one’s body or reality. Dissociation can feel like floating, dreamlike, or cause an altered perception of time.
While this may sound intimidating, it’s not dangerous or probable when experienced in a supervised, medical setting. This shift in consciousness may be a key reason why ketamine therapy for depression works so quickly. The brain is temporarily “disconnected” from negative patterns, allowing space to rewire itself more effectively.
According to a 2021 review published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, dissociation during ketamine treatment is not harmful and generally fades within an hour.
Less Common Side Effects
In rare cases, patients may experience less common symptoms, such as:
- Emotional sensitivity (crying or vulnerability post-infusion)
- Increased anxiety (especially in early sessions)
- Mild hallucinations (usually visual or auditory distortions)
- Headache after the session
- Restlessness or insomnia (more common in evening infusions)
These symptoms are not typical but can occur. Our psychiatrists are experienced in helping patients manage their responses and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
Are There Long-Term Side Effects?
For patients receiving ketamine treatment in short, controlled dosing schedules, the long-term risk is low. Studies evaluating chronic or frequent users of ketamine (particularly in recreational settings) have shown possible concerns like urinary tract irritation or cognitive changes. However, these effects are linked to high, repeated doses not used in medical care.
In structured clinical use, ketamine infusion therapy has not been shown to cause lasting harm or dependency when monitored properly. According to a review in CNS Drugs, ketamine has a “favorable safety profile” in the treatment of depression, with appropriate screening and monitoring.
At Serenity, our protocols are built for long-term safety. We perform routine check-ins, monitor symptom progress, and adjust or pause treatment based on your response. Learn more about our full mental health treatments and how we prioritize safety.
How Serenity Minimizes Risks
Not all mental health clinics are created equal. At Serenity, we:
- Only deliver ketamine in licensed medical offices
- Monitor vitals and mood during every session
- Start with lower doses and adjust as needed
- Use comfortable private rooms to promote calm
- Provide aftercare and support between sessions
- Offer access to TMS therapy, therapy, and other integrative options
We also ensure that all patients go through a thorough screening process to rule out conditions that might make ketamine unsafe, such as unmanaged psychosis or cardiovascular disease.
Are There Any Contraindications?
Ketamine therapy may not be appropriate for patients with:
- History of schizophrenia or psychosis
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Recent substance misuse
- Unstable heart conditions
- Active pregnancy (consult with OB-GYN)
During your intake session, your psychiatrist will review your medical history and medications to determine if ketamine is right for you.
How We Support You After Each Infusion
We understand that the period after each treatment is important. Patients often report needing time to rest, journal, or discuss what came up during the infusion. We help you navigate that space with post-session support and coaching when needed.
Some patients also integrate therapy into their care plans. Combining ketamine with cognitive or trauma-based therapies can boost outcomes, especially for conditions like PTSD or generalized anxiety disorder.
Our team is also happy to discuss coverage and financing options. Explore your insurance plans to see what’s covered.
Can You Drive After Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
No. Because ketamine infusion therapy can temporarily impair coordination and alertness, you’ll need someone to drive you home after each session. We recommend arranging transportation in advance and taking the rest of the day off from work or other obligations.
What If I Experience Side Effects After I Get Home?
Minor side effects like nausea, headache, or fatigue are not uncommon. Most resolve on their own with rest, hydration, and time. If symptoms persist or worsen, our care team will guide you through them comfortably and effectively.
In rare cases, we may adjust your treatment plan, change your dose, or switch to a different treatment like TMS therapy.
Why Patients Choose Serenity
Thousands of patients have found relief through ketamine infusion therapy at Serenity, and many do so after years of struggling. We offer:
- Expert psychiatrists who specialize in treatment-resistant cases
- Safe, private treatment rooms
- Flexible outpatient scheduling that fits your life
- Compassionate providers who understand your story
- Access to integrated therapy, medication management, and coaching
Ready to Move Forward?
If you’re curious about whether ketamine therapy for depression could help you, or you’ve been struggling with severe symptoms that nothing else has touched, we’re here for you.
We’ll walk you through the process, explain the risks, and help you make the choice that feels right for you.
Request Appointment|Ketamine Therapy|Serenity Mental Health Centers
FAQ: Ketamine Therapy Side Effects
What are the most common ketamine therapy side effects?
Dizziness, dissociation, nausea, fatigue, and sensory sensitivity are the most common. These usually resolve within 30–60 minutes after infusion.
Is dissociation dangerous?
No. Dissociation is a temporary side effect that many patients experience. It’s not harmful and may contribute to ketamine’s therapeutic effects.
Are there any long-term side effects?
In clinical settings, long-term side effects are rare. Recreational use carries higher risks, but monitored ketamine infusion therapy is considered safe.
Is ketamine therapy better than anti-anxiety meds or antidepressants?
Ketamine works differently. While anti-anxiety meds and antidepressants may help over weeks, ketamine offers fast, often profound relief, especially for treatment-resistant patients.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
