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Frequently Asked Questions

Get the Answers You Need About IV Ketamine Treatment in Franklin, TN

If you’re exploring IV ketamine therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain, it’s natural to have questions. At Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center, we believe in providing clear, honest, and comprehensive information so you can make informed decisions about your care. Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions we receive from new and prospective patients considering ketamine treatment at our Franklin, TN clinic.

What is IV ketamine therapy and how does it work?
IV ketamine therapy involves the administration of low-dose ketamine through an intravenous (IV) line under careful medical supervision. Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has been shown to affect glutamate pathways in the brain—specifically through NMDA receptor antagonism—which leads to increased neuroplasticity and changes in brain connectivity. These changes can result in rapid improvement in mood, thought patterns, and pain perception for many patients who have not responded to traditional treatments.

At Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center, we offer IV ketamine therapy for patients struggling with:

  • Treatment-resistant depression
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD)
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Chronic pain conditions such as CRPS, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain

We conduct thorough medical and psychiatric evaluations to determine whether ketamine therapy is an appropriate fit for your diagnosis and overall health profile.

IV ketamine delivers racemic ketamine (a mixture of both isomers) directly into the bloodstream, allowing for precise dosing and rapid onset of action. SPRAVATO® is an intranasal formulation of esketamine (one of the two isomers) and is FDA-approved specifically for treatment-resistant depression. Oral ketamine, often delivered in lozenge form, has less predictable absorption. IV infusion remains the gold standard in terms of control, effectiveness, and clinical monitoring, which is why it’s the primary delivery method at our clinic.
Your treatment begins with a private consultation to review your medical history and establish a plan. During each infusion session, you’ll relax in a quiet, private room while a slow, low-dose ketamine infusion is administered over approximately 40–60 minutes. You remain conscious but may experience a light dissociative state or dream-like sensations. Our trained medical staff monitors your vital signs and comfort level throughout the entire session, as well as during a recovery period afterward.
Most patients begin with an induction phase of 6 infusions over 2 to 3 weeks. Some people report symptom relief after just one or two sessions, but the majority experience significant improvement after completing the full initial series. Based on your response, we’ll develop a maintenance plan, which may include periodic booster infusions every few weeks or months to sustain progress.
The duration of symptom relief varies from person to person. Many patients report benefits lasting for several weeks or months after the initial series. Maintenance infusions help extend these effects, and outcomes tend to improve further when ketamine therapy is paired with ongoing psychiatric care, talk therapy, or lifestyle changes. Our team will work closely with you to monitor your results and adjust your schedule accordingly.
Yes, when administered in a clinical setting by trained professionals, ketamine therapy is considered safe for most eligible patients. Mild side effects—such as dizziness, nausea, or dissociation—are common but typically resolve within an hour or two. We take comprehensive safety measures, including pre-treatment screening and continuous monitoring throughout each session, to ensure your well-being.
Patients remain awake during IV ketamine infusions, but many describe a sensation of being mentally distant, floating, or dream-like. This is a temporary dissociative effect of ketamine and is closely monitored by our clinical team. You’ll always be able to communicate if needed, and we’re available to guide you through the experience and ensure your comfort.
In most cases, yes—but some medications may need to be adjusted or paused prior to treatment. We perform a detailed medication review during your consultation to identify any potential interactions. If you are currently taking benzodiazepines, stimulants, or certain antidepressants, we’ll coordinate with your prescribing provider to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.
IV ketamine therapy is considered an “off-label” use and is not typically covered by insurance. However, we are committed to making treatment accessible. Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center offers transparent pricing and flexible payment options, including payment plans for those who qualify. Our administrative staff is available to walk you through costs and discuss financing options during your consultation.

Find Clarity, Relief, and Hope

IV ketamine therapy offers a groundbreaking approach for individuals struggling with mental health or chronic pain conditions that haven’t responded to other treatments. At Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center in Franklin, TN, our mission is to guide you toward healing in a safe, respectful, and personalized environment.

If you have additional questions or are ready to explore whether ketamine therapy is right for you, we invite you to contact us today and schedule your initial consultation.

Schedule A Consult

Schedule A Consultation

We know how busy life can be, so we offer the option of contacting you based on your preferences to discuss Ketamine Infusion Therapy. Please provide your information below and we will contact you in the timeframe that you choose.