Starting Ketamine IV Infusion Therapy For Pain Management? How To Prepare For Your First Session

If you suffer from chronic pain and ordinary treatment hasn't provided you with the relief you need, it's time to talk to your doctor about ketamine IV infusion therapy. Ketamine IV infusion therapy provides long-lasting relief for a variety of chronic pain disorders. Best of all, it's non-habit forming, which means you don't need to worry about addiction to opioid pain medications. If you and your doctor decide that ketamine IV infusion therapy is right for you, you'll need to prepare for the treatment. In most cases, the IV infusion will take place in your doctor's office. Here are three tips that will help you to prepare for the appointment. 

Make Sure You're Ready to Relax

If you're scheduled for your first ketamine IV infusion session, it's important that you give yourself the best chance to relax. Your infusion treatment might take over an hour. You want to be able to relax during the treatment. First, get a good night's rest. The best way to do that is to go to bed early the night before your appointment. Second, wear comfortable clothes to your appointment. Tight or binding clothes can make it difficult for you to sit back and relax during your treatment session. Finally, bring some relaxing music to listen to during your session. 

Show Up With an Empty Stomach

If this is your first appointment for ketamine IV infusion therapy, be sure to have an empty stomach. Ketamine can cause mild stomach discomfort and nausea, especially during your first treatment. Having an empty stomach will reduce the risk of vomiting. For maximum benefit, it's actually a good idea to fast for at least 24 hours before your infusion appointment. That way, you can get chemicals and toxins out of your system. 

Clear Your Schedule for the Entire Day

If you're preparing for a ketamine IV infusion therapy session, be sure to clear your schedule for the entire day. Ketamine can leave you in a euphoric or relaxed state. Clearing your schedule will give you the opportunity to take full advantage of the initial effects of the treatment. Not only that, but spending the day resting and relaxing will ensure that the ketamine is able to get through your system properly. It's also a good idea to bring a friend along to your appointment. That way, they can drive you home and make sure you're settled into your home after your appointment.

To learn more about ketamine IV infusion therapy, contact a doctor.