What to Expect at Your First DripGym Ketamine Infusion in New York

Having your ketamine intravenous (IV) therapy for the first time can bring about a mix of anticipation and questions. At DripGym, we prioritize your safety and comfort, and want you fully prepped and at ease. This guide offers a comprehensive walkthrough of what you can expect during your first ketamine infusion at our clinic in either Queens or Long Island. DripGym’s experienced medical team is dedicated to assisting and monitoring you every step of the way, ensuring a safe and supportive experience for conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Key Takeaways for Your First Session

•  Prepare for your infusion by fasting and arranging a ride home for safety and comfort.

•  DripGym provides a welcoming, private, and professional environment for patients.

•  Continuous vital sign monitoring and emergency protocols prioritize your safety.

•  Expect a brief post-infusion recovery period, with effects varying among individuals.

Before You Arrive: Preparing for Your First Ketamine Infusion

As with any procedure, preparation is key to a comfortable and effective ketamine treatment at DripGym. First off, all patients receive medical clearance in advance, ensuring suitability for the IV therapy, and all relevant information is also provided prior to appointments.

DripGym’s own Dr. Pervez Qureshi shares: “Before the first session, we email patients detailed pre-treatment instructions so they know exactly how to prepare. We remind them not to eat for at least four hours beforehand, to wear comfortable clothing, and to arrange a ride home since they shouldn’t drive after the infusion. It’s all about making sure they feel relaxed, prepared, and safe before coming in.”

Arrival & Check-In: Setting Up for Ketamine IV Therapy

Upon your arrival at DripGym, our goal is to ensure you feel welcomed and ready for your treatment. Our check-in process is designed to be quick and seamless, allowing you to settle in comfortably.

“When patients arrive, they’ve already been medically cleared for treatment,” Dr. Qureshi highlights. “We just do a quick check-in to make sure they’re feeling well and haven’t eaten within the past four hours. That’s important for comfort during the infusion. Once everything’s set, we get them settled in a recliner and start the IV.”

Infusion Time: Expected Experience During Ketamine Treatment

The in-clinic ketamine therapy typically lasts about 45 minutes, during which you can expect a relaxing IV session conducted by the professional DripGym team. The estimated time does not include the post-infusion recovery period.  

Citing patient feedback, Dr. Pervez Qureshi says: “During the infusion, most patients describe feeling relaxed or a little detached from their usual thoughts. Some notice a light, floating sensation, mild tingling, or a dream-like state where time feels slower. It’s not painful or overwhelming, more of a gentle shift in awareness.

Throughout the process, our team ensures that we monitor your status and comfort and that we answer any questions you may have.

DripGym's Safety Protocols: How We Protect Every Patient

As patient safety is our paramount concern during every ketamine infusion, we adhere to rigorous clinical standards and protocols.

“We check vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, and the infusion takes place in a quiet, private space,” Dr. Qureshi points out. “We also have a fully equipped crash cart and strict emergency protocols in place so patients are safe and supported the entire time.”

This in-clinic supervision is crucial, providing a level of safety and immediate response capabilities not found in unregulated environments. It ensures that any potential, usually short-lived side effects like nausea or dizziness are promptly managed.

After the Infusion: What Recovery Feels Like

Following your ketamine infusion, you will enter a brief post-treatment observation period, typically lasting 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the immediate effects of the ketamine to recede while you are still under professional oversight.

“Most patients tell us they feel surprisingly calm and clear afterward,” Dr. Qureshi notes. “Some notice mood improvements within hours or days, while others just appreciate the sense of relaxation. The most common feedback is that the experience felt much more peaceful than they expected.”

It's important to add that while some individuals experience immediate relief from depressive symptoms within one day, others may notice improvements at a later time.

Your Comfort, Safety, and Next Steps with DripGym

At DripGym, our mission is to provide safe, professional, and compassionate ketamine care, tailored to you. As a trusted provider, we are dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety at every stage of the therapy. Understanding what to expect helps demystify the process and build confidence in your treatment.

Book a consultation with DripGym to discuss your specific needs and learn more about how our ketamine IV therapy can support your mental wellness journey.

FAQs

What conditions does DripGym help address with ketamine IV therapy?

DripGym uses ketamine IV therapy to help address conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

How long does a ketamine infusion session take at DripGym?

A typical ketamine treatment session at DripGym lasts approximately 45 minutes for the infusion itself. This is followed by a post-treatment observation period of 15 to 20 minutes for recovery.

Is it safe to drive after my first ketamine infusion?

No, it is not safe to drive or operate machinery for the remainder of the day after a ketamine infusion. You must arrange for a ride home to ensure your safety following the treatment.