If you’re considering ketamine infusions or injections as a treatment for depression, PTSD, or chronic pain, you may have come across the terms IV and IM. These terms refer to the different ways that ketamine can be administered. But what exactly are the differences between IV ketamine infusions and IM ketamine injections? Ketamine SLC offers “intramuscular ketamine injections” or IM Ketamine and we often get questions from patients who have experienced “IV Ketamine infusions” without success and want to understand the differences. Our team has put together this post to take a closer look at both methods so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment options.
“I want to say that Dr. H knows what he is doing. This clinic has saved my life. I received a full 6 treatments at another clinic all IV and they didn’t work half as well as the IM treatments I receive now. I was completely dead set against IM injections but after receiving them I would not get Ketamine any other way. I feel the staff at this clinic is highly knowledgeable and treat you as a person. They don’t treat you as a dollar figure. The clinic charges only $300.00 for a treatment and it’s worth every penny. If you are suffering from depression or anxiety as I do. Please get help at this clinic. I am so happy I did. They treat other ailments look at this site. I give them 5 stars and they deserve it.”
— M Joiner
Administration Method
The primary difference between IV and IM ketamine is the method of administration. In IV ketamine infusions, a catheter is inserted into a vein and a dilution of saline and low dose ketamine is slowly infused over a period. In contrast, IM ketamine injections are administered via a needle that is injected into the muscle, typically in the thigh or upper arm.
Speed of Onset
Another difference between IV and IM ketamine is the speed of onset. IV ketamine infusions typically take effect within minutes, while IM ketamine injections may take longer to kick in. This is because the ketamine must first be absorbed into the bloodstream from the muscle tissues before it can take effect.
Dosage
The dosage of ketamine used in IV infusions and IM injections can also differ. With IV infusions, the dosage can be adjusted and administered in different potencies over time, this allows healthcare providers to tailor treatment to each patient’s individual needs. With IM injections, the dosage is typically limited to a specific volume and there is less control over how quickly it is absorbed and how the patient will respond. However, because of the fixed dosages, many patients report longer lasting symptom reduction after they have completed their full series of 5-6 treatments.
Duration of Effect
The duration of effect is also a difference between IV and IM ketamine. Both IV infusions and IM injections provide long-lasting relief of up to 2 weeks for some patients. A full series of treatments usually includes 5-6 sessions with booster treatments administered every few months after that or as needed. Some patients find that IM injections provide more immediate and targeted relief for acute symptoms.
Few Side Effects and No Long-Term Medications
Both IV ketamine infusions and IM ketamine injections are alternative treatments for mood disorders that do not require the use of long-term medications. Many patients pursue ketamine treatment in a variety of modalities when they experience negative side effects from traditional antidepressants like chronic fatigue, weight gain and lethargy. While ketamine treatment is not a ‘non invasive’ treatment, it is a relief for many patients that the treatment does not come with a lifetime of unpleasant side effects.
When considering your options for ketamine treatment, it is important to understand the differences between IV ketamine infusions and IM ketamine injections. While both methods offer potential benefits for patients struggling with depression or chronic pain, the specifics of the administration and dosage can impact the safety and effectiveness of treatment.
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Ketamine SLC can help you determine the best course of action for your unique needs, you can feel confident in your decision to explore ketamine as a treatment option.