Evaluation
Dr. Francis conducts a thorough psychiatric assessment, reviews your medication history, and determines appropriate ketamine dosing.
IV Ketamine Therapy in Weston, FL – Rapid Relief for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Clinically supervised infusion therapy delivering fast-acting antidepressant effects when traditional medications have not provided adequate relief.
Treatment Time:40-60 minutes
Results Onset:Within hours
Sessions Needed:6 initial
FDA Status:Off-label use
When Traditional Antidepressants Are Not Enough
Understanding Treatment Resistance
Living with treatment-resistant depression can feel isolating and hopeless. You may have tried multiple antidepressant medications over months or years without experiencing meaningful relief. Daily tasks become overwhelming, relationships suffer, and the persistent weight of depression makes it difficult to see a path forward. For many patients, the cycle of trying new medications, waiting weeks for potential effects, and experiencing disappointing results takes a significant toll on quality of life and hope for recovery.
IV ketamine therapy works through an entirely different mechanism than traditional antidepressants, targeting the glutamate system rather than serotonin pathways. Under Dr. Francis's supervision, low-dose ketamine is delivered intravenously in a controlled clinical setting, often producing noticeable mood improvement within hours rather than weeks. This rapid onset of action can provide critical relief during periods of severe depression, helping to restore hope and daily functioning while a comprehensive treatment plan continues to evolve.
What Is IV Ketamine Therapy?
The Science of Glutamate Modulation
IV ketamine therapy is a physician-administered infusion treatment that delivers a subanesthetic dose of ketamine hydrochloride directly into the bloodstream. While ketamine has been FDA-approved as an anesthetic since 1970, its use for depression is considered off-label. Extensive clinical research has demonstrated that low-dose ketamine produces rapid and significant antidepressant effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression.
How IV Ketamine Therapy Works
Unlike conventional antidepressants that target serotonin and norepinephrine, ketamine acts as an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, modulating the glutamate neurotransmitter system. This triggers a cascade of neurobiological events, including increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and rapid formation of new synaptic connections—a process called synaptogenesis. A landmark randomized controlled trial found that 71% of patients with treatment-resistant depression responded to a single ketamine infusion within 24 hours, with an effect size of 1.46.
What Happens During IV Ketamine Infusion
During your infusion session at Refresh TMS, you will recline comfortably in a private treatment suite while Dr. Francis's clinical team monitors your vital signs throughout. The ketamine is delivered through a small IV catheter at a carefully calibrated dose of approximately 0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes. Most patients experience a mild floating or dream-like sensation that resolves shortly after the infusion ends.
IV Ketamine Therapy Results and Duration
Many patients notice improvement in mood and outlook within hours of their first infusion. A typical initial treatment protocol involves six infusions over two to three weeks, with the cumulative effects building with each session. Maintenance infusions may be scheduled as needed to sustain therapeutic benefits over the long term.
Treatment Timeline
First Signs
Within hours to 24 hours
Full Effect
After 6 infusions (2-3 weeks)
Treatment Time
40-60 minutes per session
Recovery
1-2 hours post-infusion monitoring
Benefits of IV Ketamine Therapy
Rapid, Meaningful Relief
- 01
Rapid Onset
Mood improvement often begins within hours, not weeks like traditional antidepressants
- 02
High Response Rate
Studies show up to 70% of treatment-resistant depression patients respond
- 03
Different Mechanism
Works through the glutamate system when serotonin-based medications fail
- 04
Physician-Supervised
Administered in a safe, monitored clinical environment by trained staff
- 05
Cumulative Effects
Serial infusions build upon each other for sustained symptom improvement
IV Ketamine vs. Alternatives
Compare Your Options
| Treatment | Mechanism | Time | Results | Duration | Downtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IV Ketamine Therapy | NMDA antagonist | 40-60 min | Hours to days | Weeks to months | 1-2 hours | Treatment-resistant depression |
| Spravato (Esketamine) | NMDA antagonist (nasal) | 2-hour session | Days to weeks | Weeks to months | 2 hours | FDA-approved for TRD |
| TMS Therapy | Magnetic stimulation | 19-37 min | 2-4 weeks | 6-12 months | None | Depression, OCD |
| Antidepressant Medication | Serotonin/norepinephrine | Daily oral | 4-8 weeks | Ongoing | None | Mild to moderate depression |
Who Is a Good Candidate for IV Ketamine Therapy?
Finding Your Path to Relief
IV ketamine therapy is specifically designed for adults whose depression, PTSD, or anxiety has not adequately responded to conventional treatments. Dr. Francis evaluates each patient thoroughly to determine whether ketamine infusion therapy is a safe and appropriate option.
Ideal Candidates for IV Ketamine Therapy
- Adults aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression (failure of two or more adequate antidepressant trials)
- Patients with chronic PTSD who have not responded to standard trauma-focused therapies or medications
- Individuals experiencing severe depressive episodes with acute suicidal ideation requiring rapid intervention
- Patients with refractory anxiety disorders who have not improved with first-line treatments
- Those who are medically stable and willing to commit to the recommended infusion protocol
Who Should Wait or Avoid IV Ketamine Therapy
- Individuals with uncontrolled hypertension or significant cardiovascular disease
- Patients with a history of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder
- Those with active substance use disorder, particularly involving ketamine or other dissociative substances
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
- Patients with increased intracranial pressure or aneurysmal vascular disease
- Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to ketamine
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Francis is required before starting ketamine infusions to ensure patient safety and appropriate candidacy.
What Happens During IV Ketamine Treatment
Preparation
Dr. Francis's clinical team places a small IV catheter, connects vital sign monitors, and ensures you are settled comfortably in a private suite.
Infusion
Dr. Francis's team administers the ketamine at a precisely calibrated dose of 0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes while monitoring your response continuously.
Recovery
You rest in the treatment suite for approximately one to two hours while Dr. Francis's team monitors your recovery before clearing you to go home with a designated driver.
Risks and Side Effects
What to Know
Common IV Ketamine Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects during infusion include mild dissociation or a floating sensation, temporary increases in blood pressure and heart rate, nausea, dizziness, and blurred vision. These effects are transient, typically peaking during the infusion and resolving within one to two hours after treatment ends. Approximately 30-40% of patients experience some degree of nausea, which can be managed with anti-nausea medication.
Rare Complications
Serious adverse events are uncommon in clinical settings with proper screening and monitoring. Rare complications may include prolonged dissociative episodes (less than 2% of patients), significant blood pressure elevation requiring intervention, or allergic reaction. There is no evidence of lasting cognitive impairment at subanesthetic doses used for depression treatment.
Safety and Monitoring at Refresh TMS
While IV ketamine for depression is considered off-label use, ketamine has been FDA-approved as an anesthetic since 1970 with an extensive safety profile. Dr. Francis's team continuously monitors vital signs throughout every infusion and during the post-treatment observation period, ensuring the highest standard of patient safety.
IV Ketamine Therapy Cost in Weston
Pricing and Payment Options
IV ketamine infusions in South Florida typically range from $400 to $800 per session, depending on the provider, dosing protocol, and duration of treatment. At Refresh TMS, the standard initial treatment protocol consists of six infusions administered over two to three weeks. Exact pricing will be discussed during your consultation based on your individual treatment plan and clinical needs.
Factors That Affect IV Ketamine Cost
Several factors influence the total investment in ketamine therapy, including the number of initial infusions recommended, whether maintenance infusions are needed for sustained benefit, the level of psychiatric oversight included, and any additional monitoring or medication management services. Dr. Francis develops individualized protocols that balance therapeutic benefit with cost considerations.
Insurance and Payment Information
IV ketamine therapy for depression is currently considered off-label and is generally not covered by most insurance plans. However, some patients may be able to use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to cover treatment costs. Our team can provide documentation to support any reimbursement requests you may wish to submit to your insurance provider.
Why Choose Refresh TMS for IV Ketamine Therapy in Weston
Weston's Trusted Provider
Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Treatments overseen by a psychiatrist with 13+ years of clinical experience
Spa-Like Environment
Calming, luxurious treatment suites designed for your comfort and privacy
Comprehensive Approach
Ketamine integrated with psychiatric evaluation and medication management
Advanced Monitoring
Continuous vital sign monitoring and personalized dosing for safety
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Frequently Asked Questions About IV Ketamine Therapy
Your Questions Answered
01 How quickly does IV ketamine work for depression?
Many patients notice improvement in mood within hours of their first infusion. This rapid onset is one of the primary advantages of IV ketamine compared to traditional antidepressants, which may take four to eight weeks to show full effects.
02 How many IV ketamine sessions will I need?
The standard initial protocol at Refresh TMS involves six infusions over two to three weeks. After the initial series, Dr. Francis may recommend periodic maintenance infusions based on your individual response and symptom recurrence patterns.
03 Does IV ketamine therapy hurt?
The IV placement involves a brief pinch similar to a standard blood draw. During the infusion itself, patients typically experience a pleasant floating or dreamy sensation. Our team ensures you are comfortable throughout the entire process.
04 Can I combine IV ketamine with other treatments?
Yes. IV ketamine therapy often works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Dr. Francis may recommend combining infusions with psychiatric medication management, individual therapy, or TMS therapy for an integrated approach to your mental health care.
05 Is IV ketamine therapy the same as Spravato?
While both involve ketamine-related compounds, they differ significantly. IV ketamine uses racemic ketamine delivered intravenously, while Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray. Dr. Francis can help determine which option is most appropriate for your needs.
06 Is IV ketamine therapy covered by insurance?
IV ketamine for depression is currently off-label and generally not covered by insurance. However, HSA and FSA accounts may be eligible for payment. Our team can provide the necessary documentation to support reimbursement requests.
07 Will I be able to drive after my infusion?
No. You must arrange for a designated driver to take you home after each session. We recommend not driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 12 hours following your infusion. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
08 Is ketamine addictive?
At the low subanesthetic doses used for depression treatment, administered in a controlled clinical setting with medical supervision, the risk of addiction is very low. Dr. Francis carefully screens all patients for substance use history and monitors for any concerning patterns throughout treatment.
Location17110 Royal Palm Blvd, Suite 1
Weston, FL, 33326
Weston, FL, 33326
Phone(754) 216-0840
Schedule Your IV Ketamine Therapy Consultation
References
- PubMed (PMID: 16894061) - Zarate et al. demonstrated that a single IV ketamine infusion produced rapid antidepressant effects in treatment-resistant major depression, with 71% response rate within 24 hours and effect size of 1.46.
- PubMed (PMID: 25010396) - McGirr et al. systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found ketamine associated with clinical remission at 24 hours (OR 7.06, NNT 5) and 7 days (OR 4.00, NNT 6) in major depressive episodes.
- PubMed (PMID: 24740528) - Feder et al. provided the first evidence for rapid reduction in PTSD symptom severity following a single IV ketamine infusion compared to midazolam in patients with chronic PTSD.
- PubMed (PMID: 37404970) - Feder et al. randomized controlled trial showed repeated ketamine infusions significantly reduced chronic PTSD symptoms, with 67% response rate in the ketamine group versus 20% for placebo.
- PubMed (PMID: 34925757) - Whittaker et al. systematic review and meta-analysis found ketamine broadly effective across treatment-resistant anxiety spectrum disorders, with sustained effects observed during maintenance therapy.
- PubMed (PMID: 10686270) - Berman et al. published the first placebo-controlled trial demonstrating significant antidepressant effects of subanesthetic ketamine within 72 hours in patients with major depression.
- American Psychiatric Association - APA consensus statement acknowledges the growing evidence base for IV ketamine in treatment-resistant depression while recommending careful patient selection and monitoring protocols.