Procedure & Treatment Library

Ketamine Infusion

What is a ketamine infusion?

Ketamine is a medication usually used in the treatment of neuropathic pain and in conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

The aim of a ketamine infusion treatment is to reduce pain and, at the same time, increase your sensitivity to analgesia, which should reduce the amount of medications needed for pain management.

How is ketamine administered?

Ketamine infusions are administered in the hospital. The average length of stay in hospital is approximately 7 days. The duration of the infusion will depend on your response to treatment.

Ketamine infusions are usually delivered intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting.

A plastic cannula is inserted into a vein in the arm and the ketamine is administered via a computer-operated infusion pump. Your vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, etc) will be monitored regularly. Infusion and pain level will be monitored hourly by nurses.

You will be contacted by one of our nurses after discharge to arrange an appointment to see your doctor approximately 1-2 weeks later.

Side effects:

The following are commonly experienced side effects:

If you become drowsy or short of breath, please let the nurse know immediately.

If you require further explanation of the procedure, please contact the nurses at Hunter Pain Specialists on (02) 4985 1800.

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