5 Myths & Misconceptions about
IV Ketamine Therapy
IV Ketamine therapy has gained recognition as a fast-acting intervention for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and other mood disorders. Yet, despite its growing clinical use, a cloud of misinformation and recreational stigma still surrounds this medically supervised treatment.
At my psychiatric practice in Somerset West, I believe in equipping patients with accurate information so they can make informed decisions about their care.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common IV ketamine therapy myths and what you can truly expect when it’s delivered safely, ethically, and as part of a broader treatment plan.
Myth 1: Ketamine is highly addictive
Fact: When used in a controlled, sub-anaesthetic dose under psychiatric protocols, ketamine does not cause addiction.
- Medical vs Recreational Use: Recreational misuse typically involves high, unsupervised doses taken frequently for euphoric effect. In contrast, IV ketamine therapy involves low-dose, clinically calibrated infusions administered under continuous supervision.
- Low Addiction Risk: Clinical studies confirm that ketamine, when used responsibly in a medical setting, carries very low risk of dependency.
These infusions are administered at between one-fifth and one-tenth the dose for anaesthesia, and patients are never left unsupervised. Patients attend structured infusions (usually 40–60 minutes) and are monitored throughout.
Myth 2: You’ll be dissociated all day
Fact: The dissociative experience is short-lived and closely monitored.
- How long does ketamine dissociation last? Most patients experience a mild “out-of-body” or dissociative sensation during the infusion itself, which typically lasts between 40 and 60 minutes. These effects usually resolve within an hour after the session ends, and you are carefully monitored throughout the process.
- Ongoing Benefits: Although the perceptual effects are temporary, the biological impact on the brain—particularly increased neuroplasticity—can last for several days or even weeks. This post-infusion period, often referred to as the “therapeutic window,” is when many patients begin to feel emotional shifts and respond more effectively to therapy and other treatments.
Myth 3: Ketamine alone is enough
Fact: Ketamine is most effective when integrated into a broader treatment plan.
- Part of a Strategy: At Dr Kobus van der Walt’s practice in Somerset West, ketamine therapy is rarely used in isolation. It is one element of a comprehensive care plan that may include antidepressants, psychotherapy, and neuromodulation techniques such as TMS therapy.
- Enhancing Outcomes: By activating the brain’s flexibility, ketamine can increase the effectiveness of talk therapy and other interventions. It creates a window for emotional learning and change.
Myth 4: Ketamine Therapy vs Recreational Use
Fact: Medical ketamine infusions are significantly different from recreational use.
While recreational ketamine is often used in high, unregulated doses in unpredictable and unsupervised environments, IV ketamine therapy is delivered in a low, precisely controlled dose under clinical supervision. Recreational use tends to be frequent or binge-like, with the goal of escape or euphoria. In contrast, therapeutic infusions follow a structured schedule and are carefully monitored, with the purpose of relieving symptoms and enhancing neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to adapt, regulate mood, and support recovery.
Myth 5: Ketamine isn’t safe long-term
Fact: Research supports the long-term safety of medically supervised, low-dose ketamine.
- Well-Tolerated: The most common side effects of ketamine therapy include mild nausea or headache. These effects are usually short-lived and are carefully monitored by medical staff during and after each infusion.
- Emerging Role in Recovery: Interestingly, low-dose ketamine may support recovery from certain substance use disorders by disrupting maladaptive neural patterns and supporting emotional reset in patients with co-occurring substance use disorders.
What to expect from an IV Ketamine Infusion
- Initial Assessment: A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess your suitability for ketamine therapy.
- Infusion Sessions: 40–60 minute sessions, delivered in a safe and calming space with full clinical supervision.
- Recovery Period: Post-infusion observation for 30–60 minutes until you feel fully steady.
- Follow-Up and Integration: Ongoing check-ins to evaluate progress and support integration alongside other therapies.
Is IV Ketamine Therapy Right for You?
For those wondering “is ketamine addictive?” or concerned about safety, it’s important to understand the difference between recreational misuse and carefully monitored treatment.
Considering IV ketamine therapy?
You don’t need a referral to start the process. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact the practice and we’ll guide you through what to expect.
At Dr Kobus van der Walt’s private psychiatry practice in Somerset West, every IV ketamine therapy plan is built on a thorough clinical foundation. We see ketamine not as a stand-alone solution, but as a potential catalyst for healing, resilience, and long-term change within a broader, personalised care plan.
If you’d like to learn more about how IV ketamine treatment for depression might support your mental health journey, you can visit the IV Ketamine Therapy page, read the IVK FAQs, or book a consultation. Clinicians and patients can also download the Ketamine Referral Form to assist with preparation or referrals.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All medical decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.
- Dr Kobus van der Walt
- IV Ketamine Therapy
IV ketamine therapy may be considered when standard treatments haven’t provided relief, particularly in complex or urgent mental health
cases.Referrals are accepted from psychiatrists, GPs, and psychologists — and self-referrals are welcome.
Contact Dr kobus van der Walt
IV Ketamine Therapy in Somerset West, Stellenbosch & the Western Cape
Ready to explore IV ketamine therapy?
An integrated, ethical approach to interventional care
IVK therapy is delivered as part of a broader, person-centred practice that values clinical responsibility, emotional safety, and the unique needs of each individual.
Visit the Services page to learn more about additional options available through my practice.