At Zephyr Medical, led by Dr. Benjamin Portal, we believe in bringing forward innovative, science-based treatments that improve lives. Among these is IV ketamine therapy, an option that has gained recognition for its ability to rapidly relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and certain chronic pain conditions. Unlike traditional treatments that may take weeks to show results, IV ketamine works in hours to days, offering new hope for patients who have not found relief elsewhere.
What Is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication originally developed in the 1960s as an anesthetic. In modern medicine, it is now being used in controlled, low doses for psychiatric and pain conditions. Unlike conventional antidepressants that primarily target serotonin or norepinephrine, ketamine works on a different system in the brain—specifically the glutamate system.
How Does IV Ketamine Work?
Ketamine acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist, which means it blocks certain receptors in the brain linked to glutamate. This action helps reset dysfunctional neural circuits and promotes the growth of new synaptic connections. The result is often a rapid improvement in mood and relief from pain.
When delivered intravenously (IV), ketamine enters the bloodstream directly, ensuring fast, predictable, and controlled results. Treatments are carefully monitored in a clinical setting by Dr. Portal and the Zephyr team, with each infusion tailored to the patient’s condition and tolerance.
Why Is IV Ketamine Different?
- Rapid Onset: Many patients report noticeable relief within hours to days, compared to the weeks required by most antidepressants.
- Controlled Delivery: IV administration allows precise dosing under medical supervision.
- Lasting Benefits: Even though ketamine leaves the body within hours, its effects on neural pathways can last for days to weeks.
- Alternative Mechanism: Works through the glutamate system rather than serotonin/dopamine, offering an option for patients who have not responded to other therapies.
Q&A: IV Ketamine Therapy at Zephyr Medical
Q: What conditions can IV ketamine help treat?
A: IV ketamine is used for treatment-resistant depression, major depressive disorder, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, and certain chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
Q: How quickly will I feel the effects?
A: Many patients notice improvement within 24 hours of their first infusion, though multiple sessions are often recommended for lasting benefits.
Q: Is IV ketamine safe?
A: Yes—when administered in a medical setting. At Zephyr Medical, Dr. Benjamin Portal personally oversees all infusions, with continuous monitoring to ensure safety.
Q: How long do the effects last?
A: Relief can last from several days to weeks. A series of treatments often provides the strongest, longest-lasting results. Maintenance infusions may be recommended.
Q: What makes IV ketamine better than oral or nasal options?
A: IV delivery ensures the most precise dosing, faster onset, and direct monitoring—something oral or nasal routes cannot always provide.
Q: Will I experience side effects?
A: Temporary side effects may include mild dizziness, blurred vision, or a dissociative feeling during treatment. These typically resolve within the session.
Contact Zephyr Medical
Zephyr Medical
111 Livingston St Suite 1901
Brooklyn, NY 11201
📞 Phone: (646) 727-9977
🌐 zephyrmd.com
If you or a loved one are considering IV ketamine therapy, reach out today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Benjamin Portal and the Zephyr Medical team. Relief may be closer than you think.