What to Expect During Your First Ketamine Infusion

So you have scheduled your first ketamine infusion—now what? It’s perfectly normal to feel curious, cautious, or even nervous before starting this innovative treatment. At Psychiatric Services of Prescott, we make sure our patients feel fully informed and supported before, during, and after every infusion.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from your very first session.

Before the Infusion

Your experience begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation. We’ll review your:

Mental health history

Previous treatments and outcomes

Current medications

Lifestyle and support system

From there, a treatment plan is created tailored to your needs—typically six initial infusions spaced over 2–3 weeks.

You’ll be advised to:

Avoid eating 4–6 hours prior to the infusion

Arrange a ride home (you cannot drive afterward)

Wear comfortable clothing

Discuss any questions or concerns with your provider

During the Infusion

You’ll be placed in a quiet, comfortable room, often with dim lighting and soothing music if desired. A small IV catheter is inserted, and the ketamine solution is administered over 40–60 minutes.

What you might experience:

A sense of detachment from your body or surroundings

Heightened awareness or introspective thoughts

Dreamlike or floating sensations

You are awake the entire time, and our team monitors your vitals and comfort level throughout. Most patients find the experience peaceful, sometimes even profound.

After the Infusion

Once the infusion ends, you’ll rest for 30–60 minutes. You may feel slightly groggy or off-balance, which is why we recommend a ride home and a light day afterward.

Common post-infusion effects include:

Improved mood and clarity

Increased emotional openness

Mild fatigue or dizziness (temporary)

Some patients feel the benefits immediately, while others notice improvements after a few sessions.

Safety and Side Effects

Ketamine is considered very safe when administered by trained professionals. Possible side effects include:

Nausea or dizziness

Mild blood pressure changes

Dissociative sensations (temporary)

Fatigue

Our staff is trained to handle any adverse reactions quickly and compassionately.

Final Thoughts

Your first ketamine infusion marks the beginning of a new healing journey. At PSOP, we’re here to walk it with you—every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a ketamine clinic in Prescott that prioritizes compassion, safety, and results, we invite you to reach out.