Ketamine Infusion Therapy in Atlanta: Costs, Safety & What to Expect
- Sophroneo Psychiatry
- Jan 3
- 7 min read
Ketamine infusion therapy is an option some people explore when standard antidepressants have stopped working or when chronic pain remains severe despite multiple attempts at treatment. It represents a significant shift from daily pills, utilizing a controlled medical process to address complex symptoms.
If you are researching ketamine infusion in the Atlanta metro area including Powder Springs and Stone Mountain, this guide will help you move from confusion to clarity.
In this guide, you will find:
A clear explanation of the infusion process and safety measures.
A breakdown of who is (and isn't) a likely candidate.
A decision tool comparing IV infusion against insurance-covered options like Spravato™ and TMS.
Practical questions to vet a provider.
What is ketamine infusion therapy and what does it treat?
Ketamine infusion therapy delivers a precise, low dose of ketamine directly into the bloodstream through an IV in a monitored clinical setting.
Unlike oral medication, an infusion allows the clinician to control exactly how much medication enters your system and how quickly. While ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic, lower doses are now widely used "off-label" to treat:
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD): Depression that has not improved with at least two other antidepressant trials.
Mood Disorders: Including severe anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar depression (during stable phases).
Chronic Pain: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), neuropathic pain, and fibromyalgia.
How does ketamine work for mood and chronic pain?
Ketamine mainly targets the brain’s glutamate system (specifically NMDA receptors), which is different from how standard antidepressants work.
Most traditional antidepressants (SSRIs) focus on serotonin. Ketamine works on glutamate, the most abundant neurotransmitter in the brain.
For Mood: It is believed to help "reset" abnormal brain signaling and promote neuroplasticity, helping the brain form new, healthier connections (synapses).
For Pain: It may disrupt pain signals in the spinal cord and brain, essentially turning down the volume on "central sensitization," where the nervous system has become stuck in a high-pain state.
Which symptoms and histories suggest you might be a good candidate?
You may be a candidate when standard treatments have not provided relief and a licensed clinician confirms it is medically appropriate for your history.
Ketamine is rarely a first-line treatment. It is usually considered an "interventional" step when:
You have tried therapy and medication without significant improvement.
Your depression or pain prevents you from functioning in daily life (work, sleep, relationships).
You are looking for a rapid-onset option while waiting for other long-term treatments to take hold.
Note: Being a "candidate" requires a thorough medical evaluation. A responsible clinic will review your heart health and psychiatric history before booking an infusion.
Who should not get ketamine infusions?
Some medical and psychiatric conditions raise safety risks, making ketamine infusion inappropriate for certain patients.
Patient safety is the priority. Clinicians typically avoid or use extreme caution with ketamine infusion if you have:
Uncontrolled Hypertension: High blood pressure that is not managed by medication (ketamine can temporarily raise blood pressure).
Active Psychosis: A history of hallucinations or delusions, or schizophrenia (unless under highly specialized care).
Active Substance Use: Current abuse of alcohol or drugs.
Pregnancy: It is generally not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding patients.
How does a ketamine infusion appointment work from check-in to recovery?
Most visits follow a predictable flow: medical screening, IV placement, the monitored infusion, and a recovery period before discharge.
Knowing what to expect can reduce anxiety. A typical session lasts about 60 to 90 minutes total (longer for pain protocols):
Check-in & Vitals: The team checks your blood pressure and oxygen levels.
IV Start: A small needle is placed in your arm or hand.
The Infusion (approx. 40 mins for mood): You relax in a recliner. The environment is usually dim and quiet. You remain awake but may feel deeply relaxed.
Monitoring: Staff observes your vitals and comfort level throughout.
Recovery: Once the drip stops, you rest for 20–30 minutes until the grogginess fades and you are safe to walk.
How Sophroneo Fits
At Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS, we believe ketamine therapies work best as part of a whole-person plan, not a standalone "cure."
Comprehensive Evaluation: We assess if you need therapy, medication management, or interventions like Spravato or TMS.
Safety First: Our clinics in Powder Springs and Stone Mountain follow strict monitoring protocols.
Continuity: We don’t just treat and release; we coordinate with your ongoing therapy to help maintain progress.
How should you prepare the day before and day of treatment?
Preparation usually focuses on safety and comfort, including ride planning, medication review, and following clinic fasting rules.
Arrange a Ride: You cannot drive for the rest of the day after an infusion.
Fasting: Most clinics require you to stop eating 4 hours before and stop drinking clear liquids 2 hours before to prevent nausea.
Medications: Ask your doctor if you should skip any morning meds (like benzodiazepines or stimulants) that might interfere with treatment.
Comfort: Wear loose clothing with sleeves that roll up easily. Bring headphones and a calming playlist without lyrics.
What does ketamine infusion feel like and what side effects are common?
Many people feel a sensation of floating, relaxation, or detachment (dissociation), while physical side effects are usually temporary.
"Dissociation" can feel like your mind is separate from your body, or like you are in a dream. For most, this is peaceful; for some, it can be strange.
Common Physical Side Effects: Nausea, dizziness, mild headache, or temporary double vision.
Vitals: Blood pressure and heart rate may rise slightly, which is why monitoring is standard.
Afterward: You may feel tired or "fuzzy" for a few hours. A deep sleep that night is common.
How much does ketamine infusion cost and is it covered by insurance?
Costs vary by clinic and protocol, and insurance coverage is often limited for IV ketamine because it is an "off-label" use.
Cash-Pay Reality: Most IV infusions are out-of-pocket, ranging significantly in price per session.
The Insurance Alternative (Spravato™): Unlike IV ketamine, Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for Treatment-Resistant Depression. Because it is FDA-approved, Spravato is covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare and commercial payers.
Tip: If cost is a barrier, ask Sophroneo about Spravato or TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), both of which have higher rates of insurance coverage than IV infusions.
Which is a better fit for you: Ketamine Infusion, Spravato, or TMS?
The best fit depends on your diagnosis, safety factors, speed needed, insurance coverage, and your response to prior treatments.
Use this tool to discuss options with your provider:
Feature | Ketamine Infusion (IV) | Spravato™ (Esketamine) | NeuroStar TMS |
Best For | Rapid relief; complex pain conditions; severe TRD where cost isn't a factor. | Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD); patients wanting insurance coverage. | Depression without medication side effects; patients wanting a non-drug option. |
Method | Intravenous (Needle). | Nasal Spray (self-administered under supervision). | Magnetic pulses to the brain (Non-invasive). |
Insurance | Rarely covered (Off-label). | Widely covered (FDA-approved). | Widely covered (FDA-approved). |
Side Effects | Dissociation, nausea, BP spikes (during visit). | Dissociation, dizziness, BP spikes (during visit). | Scalp discomfort during treatment; no systemic drug effects. |
Time Commitment | ~90 mins per visit + driver needed. | ~2 hours monitoring per visit + driver needed. | ~20–30 mins per visit; can drive yourself. |
What should you do if ketamine does not help or side effects feel too intense?
Non-response and side effects can often be addressed by reassessing the diagnosis, adjusting the protocol, or switching to alternative therapies.
Troubleshooting Common Concerns
"I felt too anxious during the infusion."
Likely Cause: The dissociation was intense.
Next Step: Tell your provider. They may adjust the dose, provide anti-anxiety support, or suggest TMS (which has no psychoactive effects).
"I felt better for a day, then it wore off."
Likely Cause: Ketamine often requires a "loading dose" series to build durability.
Next Step: Discuss maintenance schedules or adding CBT therapy to integrate the insights gained during the relief window.
"It didn't help my pain."
Likely Cause: The pain mechanism may not be NMDA-receptor dominant.
Next Step: Re-evaluate the pain origin. Is it structural? Inflammatory? Behavioral health interventions for pain coping might be a better next step.
What questions should you ask a clinic before you book?
Asking about monitoring, screening, coordination, and aftercare helps you choose a safe, reputable clinic.
Don't just look for the lowest price. Ask these questions to ensure high-quality care:
"Who monitors me during the treatment?" (Ideally a nurse, PA, or MD should be vigilant/nearby).
"Do you offer Spravato or TMS if IV infusion isn't right for me?" (Clinics that only do IVs might be biased toward selling it).
"What is your protocol for medical emergencies?"
"Do you coordinate with my current psychiatrist or therapist?"
"Are there hidden costs for the consultation or missed appointments?"
Assumptions & Limitations
Not a "Cure-All": Ketamine is a tool, not a magic wand. It works best combined with therapy and lifestyle changes.
Off-Label Note: IV Ketamine for mood disorders is an off-label use of a generic anesthetic. Spravato is the FDA-approved version for depression.
Individual Results: Response rates vary. No reputable clinic can guarantee a 100% remission rate.
Safety Note: If you are currently in crisis or feel unsafe, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911, or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between ketamine infusion and Spravato?
Ketamine infusion is delivered via IV and is a generic mixture (racemic ketamine) used off-label. Spravato is a nasal spray containing esketamine (one specific molecule) that is FDA-approved for Treatment-Resistant Depression. Spravato typically has better insurance coverage.
How many ketamine infusion treatments are needed for depression?
Most protocols start with an "induction" phase of roughly 6 infusions over 2–3 weeks. If the patient responds well, "maintenance" boosters may be scheduled every few weeks or months, though this varies by individual.
Can I drive after a ketamine infusion?
No. Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic and dissociative. Your reaction time and judgment will be impaired. You must arrange for a trusted friend, family member, or ride service to take you home.
Does insurance cover ketamine infusion for pain?
Generally, no. Most insurance plans consider IV ketamine for chronic pain "investigational" or "experimental." However, the consultation visit or associated therapy might be covered. Always check with your specific plan.
Is ketamine infusion addictive?
When administered in a controlled clinical setting at low doses and infrequent intervals, the risk of addiction is considered low. However, patients with a history of substance use disorder require careful screening and monitoring.
Does Sophroneo offer IV Ketamine or Spravato?
Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS offers a range of pharmacologic services including Spravato™ (esketamine), medication management, and ketamine therapy options. We help patients determine which route (IV, nasal, or other) is clinically and financially best for them.
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