CAN ANYONE RECEIVE KETAMINE INFUSION THERAPY? HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

One of the most common questions we receive at Tidewater Health & Ketamine Center is:

“Are there any medical conditions that would prevent someone from receiving ketamine infusions?”

It’s a great question—and a vital one for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of your care.

Ketamine infusion therapy is a powerful and promising treatment option, especially for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. While ketamine is considered safe and effective in most cases, there are some health conditions that may require extra caution—or may mean this therapy isn’t the right fit at this time.

Here are some of the main factors we consider:

1. Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Because ketamine can raise blood pressure, individuals with uncontrolled hypertension may be at risk for complications. At Tidewater Health, we monitor your vitals continuously—heart rate, oxygen, EKG, and blood pressure—throughout your session. For patients with well-controlled hypertension, we can usually proceed safely, adjusting or pausing treatment if needed.

2. History of Psychosis or Schizophrenia

Ketamine may worsen symptoms of psychosis or schizophrenia, so individuals with a personal or family history of these conditions are typically not ideal candidates for ketamine therapy.

3. Severe Cardiovascular Disease

Because ketamine mildly stimulates the cardiovascular system, it could pose risks for those with serious heart conditions or a history of cardiac events. In these cases, a thorough risk-benefit discussion with our physician is essential.

4. Liver or Kidney Impairment

Since ketamine is metabolized by the liver and excreted through the kidneys, patients with severe liver or kidney disease may not tolerate it well. Dose adjustments and additional lab work may be required.

5. Severe Respiratory Conditions

Though rare, ketamine can cause respiratory depression. Individuals with severe asthma or COPD should be evaluated carefully, as they may be more vulnerable to breathing difficulties during treatment.

6. Active Substance Abuse or Addiction

Ketamine is not recommended for individuals with current substance abuse or addiction issues, due to the potential for misuse or triggering addictive behaviors.

7. Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

There is not enough data to confirm the safety of ketamine therapy during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Unless absolutely necessary and deemed safe by our medical team, we generally avoid treatment during these times.

8. Allergies to Ketamine

Of course, anyone with a known allergy to ketamine or its components should not receive ketamine therapy.

So, Is Ketamine Therapy Right for You?

At Tidewater Health, we take your safety seriously. That’s why every patient begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation led by Dr. Smith, our board-certified provider with advanced training in ketamine therapy, addiction medicine, and primary care. If you're a good candidate, we’ll tailor a personalized treatment plan and monitor you closely during every session in a serene, medically supervised setting.

If you're considering ketamine infusion therapy, the best place to start is with a consultation.

  • We’ll review your health history in detail

  • Answer all your questions about risks, benefits, and expectations

  • Explore Ketamine PLUS®, our precision-based treatment model

  • Discuss insurance coverage options (initial consultations may be in-network)

Visit Us:
Tidewater Health & Ketamine Center
1435 Stuart Engals Blvd, Suite 101
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

📞 Call Us: (843) 800‑5686
📧 Email: angela@tidewaterhealth.org
🗓️ Schedule Your Consultation Online: www.tidewaterhealth.org

Let’s explore your healing journey—together.

Angela Smith