Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Treatment for:
- Depression
- PTSD
- OCS
- CRPS
Breakthrough Therapy for Pain & Depression in Pasadena
Although ketamine has been used as anesthesia in operating rooms for many years, ketamine IV infusion therapy is one of the newest, most advanced pain, depression and mood disorder therapies. (Psychiatrists swear by it, and it was featured in a special edition of TIME magazine in August 2017.) Here at our Interventional Anesthesia & Pain Management Clinic’s ketamine clinic, we have had great success with ketamine infusion therapy. IV ketamine depression treatment has been called the most important breakthrough in antidepressant therapy in decades. We have saved the lives of many people who otherwise had no hope for a decent life. We have even saved people from committing suicide!
Ketamine infusion is also effective for chronic pain syndromes, especially those with a neuropathic component such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), post-herpetic neuralgia and neuropathic pain from peripheral nerve damage. Ketamine is an anesthetic drug used in general anesthesia, in operating rooms and in war zones by active-duty US Army officers for many years. Dr. Malek knows firsthand since his days as an Army officer. Since then, he has been providing safe, effective ketamine infusion therapy from his own ketamine clinic at Interventional Anesthesia & Pain Management Clinic. His ketamine clinic patients have experienced amazing success and great results.
Ketamine FAQs
Contact Dr. Malek to arrange a free phone consultation.
We recommend six infusions over one to three weeks for treating psychiatric and chronic pain conditions. If we successfully control your symptoms, Dr. Malek will conduct follow-up evaluations to determine long-term treatment plans. Follow-up treatment usually consists of one infusion every four to five weeks.
They are very similar. The main differences are the duration of different infusions and the total amount of ketamine given for each infusion. Typically, infusions for chronic pain conditions take twice as long and use about twice the amount of ketamine.
A history of schizophrenia, drug and alcohol abuse, uncontrolled high blood pressure, glaucoma or previous allergic reactions to ketamine would exclude you as a candidate for ketamine infusions.
Yes. Ketamine is a commonly used anesthetic in operating rooms around the world. The dosage for treating depression and chronic pain is well below what is typically used in the operating room. Dr. Malek will discuss specific risks, side effects and alternatives during your initial consultation.
There is no evidence of increased risk for ketamine abuse among patients who have been treated for pain and depression with IV infusions.
No. You can refer yourself as long as you have a qualified physician to manage your medication and a therapist who can monitor your symptoms on an ongoing basis.
Currently, insurance companies do not cover ketamine infusions. Payment for treatments is required prior to being scheduled. Fees for consultation visits and follow-up visits may be covered by some insurance plans. Contact your insurance company for specifics.
We treat depression, OCD, PTSD and chronic pain. Ask about other indications.
About 70% of people with depression respond successfully to ketamine infusions.
You cannot drive until the morning following your appointment, so you should arrange for transportation home following the treatment. You should also avoid illegal drugs and alcohol for at least 24 hours.
No. Ketamine is a generic drug so it is highly unlikely that pharmaceutical companies will invest the time and money required to obtain FDA approval.