Question 1

Medical Use vs. Recreational Use

Accepted Answer

Ketamine therapy involves the use of low, medically supervised doses of ketamine to treat conditions like depression, PTSD, anxiety, and addiction.

Question 2

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and Infusion Therapy

Accepted Answer

There are two primary forms of ketamine therapy: Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and IV or IM infusion therapy. In KAP, ketamine is combined with talk therapy during or after the session to deepen emotional processing.

Question 3

Common and Short‑Term Side Effects

Accepted Answer

When beginning ketamine therapy, many people experience temporary, manageable side effects. These can include:

Dissociation (feeling detached from your body or surroundings)
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Blurred vision
Increased heart rate or blood pressure

Question 4

Physical Discomfort

Accepted Answer

Some individuals may also notice mild physical effects, such as fatigue or slight irritation at the injection site. These are usually short-lived and can be easily managed by our clinical team at The Edge Treatment Center.

Question 5

Less Common & Transient Psychological Effects

Accepted Answer

In some cases, patients may experience less common psychological effects, including:

Hallucinations or vivid dreams
Feelings of anxiety or panic during the session
Mild confusion or emotional intensity

Question 6

Rare Mental Reactions

Accepted Answer

Rare psychological responses—such as mood swings, paranoia, or brief episodes of delirium—can occur but are uncommon in a structured clinical setting. Our trained staff is always present to support you and intervene if needed.

Question 7

Rare but Serious & Long‑Term Risks

Accepted Answer

While rare, some serious side effects have been observed, especially with high doses or prolonged use outside medical supervision. These include:

Respiratory depression
Allergic reactions
Heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmia)

Question 8

Long-Term Physical Health Risks

Accepted Answer

With long-term or frequent use, patients may face risks such as:

Bladder inflammation (cystitis) or bladder damage
Liver toxicity in rare cases

Question 9

Tolerance and Dependence

Accepted Answer

Although ketamine is not considered physically addictive like opioids, repeated use can lead to tolerance or psychological dependence. We address this by providing comprehensive mental health care alongside treatment, ensuring you're supported every step of the way.

Question 10

Medical Conditions That Require Extra Care

Accepted Answer

While ketamine therapy can be highly effective, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions should be carefully evaluated before beginning treatment. These include:

Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Cardiovascular disease
Liver conditions
Bladder disorders or a history of urinary tract issues

Question 11

Mental Health and Substance Use History

Accepted Answer

Ketamine therapy may also pose risks for those with a history of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, as it can potentially trigger or worsen psychotic symptoms.

Question 12

Why Supervision Matters

Accepted Answer

Unsupervised or at-home use of ketamine—especially without professional guidance—can increase the risk of serious side effects, dependence, and medical complications.

Question 13

How We Keep You Safe at The Edge Treatment Center

Accepted Answer

At The Edge Treatment Center, we prioritize your safety through expert care, personalized treatment, and continuous support during every stage of ketamine therapy.

Question 14

Comprehensive Initial Assessment

Accepted Answer

Your safety begins before your first session. We conduct a thorough initial assessment that includes your medical history, mental health background, current medications, and overall physical condition.

Question 15

Professional Monitoring and Trained Staff

Accepted Answer

Each ketamine therapy session at The Edge Treatment Center is carefully monitored. Our team tracks your vital signs throughout the session, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. Our clinical staff is trained to manage any side effects or unexpected reactions, ensuring you feel secure and supported at every moment.

Question 16

Tailored Dosing and Emergency Preparedness

Accepted Answer

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here. We use personalized dosing based on your specific needs and how your body responds to treatment. If a medical issue arises, our facility is equipped with emergency protocols and trained staff to handle it immediately and effectively.

Question 17

Integrated Therapy and Emotional Support

Accepted Answer

We don’t just administer ketamine—we combine it with emotional and psychological support. Many sessions include talk therapy or post-session integration to help you process your experience and gain deeper insight into your healing.

Question 18

Ongoing Aftercare and Support

Accepted Answer

Your safety and progress remain our priority even after the session ends. We offer regular follow-up check-ins, monitor for side effects, and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Whether it’s your first session or your tenth, we walk with you every step of the way.

Question 19

Considering Ketamine Therapy? We’ll Help You Do It Safely

Accepted Answer

Ketamine therapy can be a powerful tool for healing when used with care, support, and medical oversight. Understanding ketamine therapy side effects is a crucial step in making informed decisions about your mental health and recovery journey.

Question 20

What are the most common ketamine therapy side effects?

Accepted Answer

Common ketamine therapy side effects include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, headache, blurred vision, and increased heart rate. These symptoms are usually mild and short-lived when therapy is administered in a safe, medically supervised setting like The Edge Treatment Center.

Question 21

How long do side effects typically last after an infusion?

Accepted Answer

Most ketamine therapy side effects occur during or shortly after the infusion and last about one to two hours. Some individuals may feel drowsy or foggy afterward, but these effects usually resolve by the end of the day with rest.

Question 22

Can ketamine therapy lead to addiction?

Accepted Answer

While ketamine isn’t considered physically addictive, repeated or unsupervised use can lead to psychological dependence. Receiving ketamine therapy under medical supervision helps minimize risks, including misuse and long-term side effects, ensuring the treatment supports your recovery without creating new challenges.

Question 23

Is ketamine therapy safe if I have high blood pressure or heart disease?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine therapy side effects can include increased heart rate and blood pressure. If you have hypertension or heart disease, a medical evaluation is required. At The Edge Treatment Center, we closely monitor your vitals to ensure safe, individualized treatment.

Question 24

What if I experience bladder or urinary issues after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Bladder issues are a rare ketamine therapy side effect, but can occur with long-term or frequent use. Symptoms like discomfort or urinary changes should be reported promptly. We assess and monitor these concerns closely and adjust treatment to protect your health and comfort.