What to Expect at Your First IV Ketamine Session
How to Prepare and What It Feels Like
Trying something new , especially a medical treatment, can feel scary. If you're thinking about starting IV ketamine therapy, this post will help you know what to expect and how to feel ready.
At Modern Experience Clinic, we want you to feel safe, calm, and supported every step of the way.
What Is IV Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medicine that can help people who feel really sad, anxious, or stuck.
It works in a new way, different from regular antidepressants, and many people feel better after just a few treatments.
In our clinic, we give ketamine through an IV (a tiny tube in your arm). It takes about 40 minutes, and we stay with you the whole time.
How to Get Ready
Here are a few simple things to do before your session:
✅ 1. Come With an Empty Stomach
Don’t eat for at least 6 hours before your appointment
You can have water up until 2 hours before
✅ 2. Bring a Support Person (Optional)
Some people like to have a trusted friend or family member drop them off or wait outside
You will not be able to drive afterward, so plan a safe ride home
✅ 3. Wear Comfortable Clothes
Soft, loose clothes work best
Bring a sweater or blanket if you like to feel cozy
✅ 4. Clear Your Day
Take the rest of the day off
Plan to rest afterward (no work, no errands, major life decisions)
What Happens at the Clinic?
Here’s what your visit will look like:
Check-In – We welcome you and answer any questions
Vitals & Prep – We check your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen. We use a non-invasive device that goes on your fingertip and causes minimal disruption to your experience
IV Placement – A nurse gently places a small IV in your arm
You Relax – You lie back in a comfy massage chair in a private room
The Infusion Begins – The ketamine slowly enters your body over 45 minutes
We Stay With You – Our team is available to help the whole time
Recovery Time – You relax for about 30 minutes after the infusion
Ride Home – You go home with your support person or driver
What Will I Feel?
Everyone is a little different, but here’s what many people describe:
Feeling light, floaty, or dreamy
A shift in how they see or think
Music or lights may feel deeper or brighter
Some people feel emotional or reflective
Others feel calm, peaceful, or detached from stress
It’s not scary, just different. And we’re always there with you.
Are There Side Effects?
Most are mild and short-lasting:
Nausea (we can give medicine for this)
Blurry vision or dizziness
Feeling tired afterward
Some people cry or feel emotional (this is normal)
What Should I Bring?
Headphones (if you want music)
A journal or notebook (for after your session)
Water for after the infusion
A ride home
What Happens Next?
You’ll come back for more sessions over the next few weeks, usually a series of 6 infusions.
Many people start feeling better after the first few. Some feel it right away.
We’ll check in with you every step of the way and adjust the plan based on how you feel.
You Deserve to Feel Better
IV ketamine is a powerful, science-backed way to treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
At The ME Clinic, we make the experience calm, respectful, and all about you.