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Understanding Ketamine Dosing
Ketamine is an exceptionally versatile medication. At lower doses, it can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety; at moderate levels, it can induce a mind-expanding experience; and at higher doses, it acts as a powerful anesthetic. The effects you experience depend on the dosage and how the medication is administered.
How Ketamine Dosing Works
Ketamine’s impact varies with dose, delivery method, and each person’s unique physiology. At ReYou, we understand that no two individuals respond the same way.
Common methods of ketamine administration include:
IV infusions
Ketamine is delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. Doses are usually calculated in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), as heavier patients often require higher doses to achieve similar effects.
Intranasal treatments (Spravato)
Spravato is an FDA-approved form of esketamine (a molecule derived from ketamine), which comes as a nasal spray. Patients self-administer Spravato under strict medical supervision at our clinic, and the doses are standardized as either a low dose (56mg) or a high dose (84mg).
Lozenges and oral tablets
Ketamine can be given orally as a tablet or a lozenge that dissolves under the tongue. This is the typical administration method for at-home ketamine, where patients receive the medication through the post, along with instructions on how to take it safely. These typically come in the form of a standard dose of around 150 mg, but may be altered depending on how someone responds.
People respond differently to ketamine, and the recommended dose varies from person to person. Factors that affect how people respond include:
- Body weight and metabolism
- Past ketamine or recreational drug use
- Current medications
- Brain chemistry
- Mental health conditions
Because of this variability, doses are never one-size-fits-all. At ReYou, you’ll begin with a carefully selected dose that may be adjusted based on how you respond during and after treatment.
Ketamine Dose Ranges
Ketamine dosing is generally categorized into four levels, each producing different physical and psychological effects.
Low doses
Low doses are typically between 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg. In this dose range, you may notice mild changes such as relaxation, improved mood, and increased introspection. You may notice subtle sensory changes, such as a light feeling or mild floating sensation.
These doses are particularly effective for ketamine-assisted therapy (KAP), allowing you to process emotions and gain insight in a clear, reflective state. Mild side effects, like nausea or dizziness, can occur but are usually minimal.
Mid-range doses
For IV ketamine, 0.5 mg/kg is the most widely studied dose and has been shown to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, even without adjunct therapy.
At this level, you may experience mild dissociation and a sense of detachment from habitual thought patterns, which enhances the therapeutic effect. Side effects can be more noticeable but are generally manageable.
Dissociative doses
From approximately 0.5–1 mg/kg, ketamine produces stronger dissociation. Patients may experience out-of-body sensations or a temporary shift in perception. Psychological side effects like anxiety or confusion can be more common at this level.
These doses are less common in therapy, and mostly associated with recreational use of ketamine.
Sedation doses
Higher doses, 1–4 mg/kg, can start to induce unconsciousness. These ketamine doses are primarily used in surgical or emergency settings. Patients must be closely monitored by doctors as side effects can be extremley dangerous, if not managed.
Personalized and Safe Dosing at ReYou
Individualized dosing is critical for safe and effective ketamine therapy. At ReYou, we carefully assess each patient to determine the optimal dose and delivery method, whether you’re receiving in-clinic infusions or guided at-home ketamine. During treatment, our clinicians monitor responses closely and adjust dosing to maximize benefits while minimizing side effects.
If you’re exploring ketamine therapy or Spravato, ReYou offers comprehensive, personalized care designed to meet your mental health needs safely and effectively. Get in touch today to find out more.
