How to Safely Take Ketamine: Best Practices for At-Home Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine, once primarily known as an anesthetic in the medical field, has gained popularity for its therapeutic potential in treating mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. While ketamine therapy can be administered by healthcare professionals, some individuals choose to undertake at-home treatments under specific conditions.
In this article, we will explore the process of how to take ketamine safely at home, including preparation, setting, safety precautions, and aftercare.
Preparation
Ketamine patient lying in bed with an eye mask.
Fasting for Six Hours: Before your ketamine session, it’s essential to fast for at least six hours. This ensures that the ketamine is absorbed more effectively and minimizes the risk of nausea and vomiting—risking aspiration—during your session.
Avoiding Sedative Medications: Ensure that you are not taking any sedative medications or alcohol that might interact with ketamine, as this could lead to adverse effects.
Set the Right Setting: Create a comfortable, safe, and calming environment in your home. A quiet, dimly lit room with a comfortable bed or couch can be an ideal space for your session. You may like to light a candle or burn incense.
KEEP OUT OF WATER: No hot tubs, bathtubs, swimming pools. You can drown.
Music: Play relaxing or meditative music to set a soothing atmosphere. Some recommend classical music such as Bach.
Trusted Companion: It is crucial to have a close and trusted friend nearby that may provide emotional support and assist you if needed.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Oxygen Levels: If you have a history of high blood pressure, check your blood pressure before, during, and after the session. For those with respiratory issues, wear a pulse oximeter to monitor your oxygen levels during the treatment.
Use an Eye Mask: It is recommended to wear an eye mask during your ketamine session. It helps enhance the introspective experience and block out external visual distractions, allowing you to focus on your thoughts and feelings.
The Ketamine Ingestion Process
Taking the Ketamine Tablet: When ready, take the prescribed ketamine tablet and place it under your tongue. Ketamine tablets are designed to dissolve, so try to keep it in your mouth for as long as possible.
Managing Residue: The taste may be challenging, and saliva may accumulate, leading to unintentional swallowing. Spitting out the residue after 10 minutes may help reduce nausea. Some choose to swallow the residue which will prolong the effect. Having a cup handy is helpful.
During The Session
Prepare for Bed Rest: Expect to be lying in bed for at least two hours or more during the peak effect of the medicine. Ketamine’s effects can vary, but it often induces a dreamy or dissociative state. During this state it is unsafe to walk around without assistance. Take a moment now to use the bathroom before the medicine sets in.
Minimize Distractions: Turn off your phone or put it on airplane mode. This is your time for self-care and introspection. Put on your eye mask. Relax and focus on your breath.
Onset and Peak: Effects typically begin within 10–20 minutes of ingestion. The peak of the experience—when dissociation and sensory changes are strongest—usually occurs 40 to 60 minutes after the dose and lasts for about 30–60 minutes and then gradually wears off.
Sensations and Experience: Expect to enter a dreamy or deeply dissociative state. Common sensations include a shift in perspective, altered sense of time and space, and feeling detached from your body. This is safe and expected.
Session Duration: Commit to a total session time of at least four hours from the moment you ingest the medicine. During this time, you will not be available for work or child-care related tasks.
Balance and Walking Issues: As ketamine can affect your coordination and balance, do not attempt to walk or move around during the peak of your session. It is advisable to remain lying down to prevent accidents or falls. If you must move, use extreme caution and have your trusted companion assist you.
Nausea Management: Be prepared for potential nausea and vomiting during the session. Your healthcare provider may prescribe anti-nausea medications to manage this issue.
Aftercare
Allow Time for the Effects to Wear Off: Ketamine’s full effects typically wear off four to five hours after ingestion. Ensure that you remain at home during this period and avoid driving or operating machinery, as ketamine can impair coordination and cognitive function.
Emotional Support: Have a trusted friend or family member available to provide emotional support and assistance as you come down from the ketamine experience.
Integration: Take time and make the effort to integrate and implement change. Introspect on the experience and write or record what thoughts and feelings arise. Start a practice of spending time with yourself in nature, walk, meditate, really any practice that focuses on self improvement.
Conclusion
Ketamine therapy has shown promise in helping individuals with mental health challenges. While some opt for at-home treatment, it is crucial to prioritize safety and proper preparation. Following these guidelines for at-home ketamine treatment can help ensure a comfortable and secure experience, promoting the potential benefits for your mental health while minimizing any associated risks.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before beginning ketamine therapy to ensure it is appropriate for your specific needs. Remember that safety, comfort, and a supportive environment are key to a successful ketamine treatment.
Discreet Ketamine provides ketamine therapy for at-home treatment to Florida residents.
