Ketamine
Ketamine is an anesthetic medication that, in certain cases, may be used off-label to help manage symptoms of mood disorders such as depression. Off-label use means that while psychiatrist may prescribe it, it is not formally approved by Health Canada for the treatment of depression or other mental health conditions.
Who We Help
This program supports those 18 and older who:
- Are experiencing severe symptoms of depression
- Have not experienced sufficient improvement with evidence-based standard treatments such as medication or psychotherapy
Important Note
Ketamine is not suitable for everyone. Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessment. Participation in treatment cannot be guaranteed and depends on clinical appropriateness and service availability.
What to Expect
This outpatient program provides:
Comprehensive assessment:
Before starting treatment, you will meet with a psychiatrist who has an expertise in ketamine interventions and mood disorders for a full evaluation to determine if ketamine may be appropriate.
Individualized care:
If deemed suitable, a personalized treatment plan will be developed by an interprofessional team.
Administration and monitoring:
For most cases, ketamine is administered intravenously in a hospital setting. You will remain under observation for approximately two hours.
Because evidence is still evolving, the clinic offers a short main series with a brief follow-up phase for those who qualify.
Key Benefits
Access to specialized, coordinated care from an experienced multidisciplinary team
For eligible patients, ketamine may help relieve symptoms by acting on brain pathways involved in mood regulation
Some individuals may experience rapid symptom improvement when other treatments have not been effective
How to Access the Service
For Patients and Care Partners:
Speak with your healthcare provider about a referral to our program.
For Referring Partners
Patients can be referred using the South Eastern Ontario Addictions & Mental Health Service Access Form.
Eligibility criteria
- Be 18 years or older with a diagnosed mental health condition
- Be enrolled in Providence Care’s Mood Disorder Service
- Symptoms have not improved with other treatments
For questions about referrals or to confirm eligibility, contact our Central Intake team: 613-544-4900 ext. 52040.
Appointment Information
Before Treatment
- Talk to your doctor about what medications are suitable for you to take or avoid.
- We suggest you bring an eye mask and headphones with you to decrease your exposure to light and noise.
What to Expect
- Appointments take place in an outpatient clinic at Providence Care Hospital. Report to Registration on level 1.
- After registering, proceed to the Clinics waiting area, located to the right of the main lobby welcome desk. A staff member will take you to the clinic.
- You will receive medication administered intravenously and will be at the hospital for the infusion and monitoring period, which takes approximately two hours.
- For your safety, a responsible adult must escort you home after your infusion treatment, regardless of your mode of transportation (walking, driving, public transport). Your escort must meet you inside the clinic, not at the main entrance, to complete your discharge.
Cancelling an Appointment
The Interventional Psychiatry Clinic (IVP) is committed to providing timely, compassionate care. If you cannot come to your appointment, please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 613-544-4900 ext. 53228.
Letting us know early helps us offer the appointment to someone else on our waitlist.
Cancellation and no-show guidelines
Initial Appointments (Consults and First Treatments)
- If you cancel with at least 48 hours’ notice, we will offer a new appointment as availability allows.
- If you cancel late or do not attend, you will return to the waitlist.
- If we do not hear from you within 1 week of a missed appointment, we will close your file. A new referral is required to return.
- If you cancel two appointments in a row, we will close your file and you will need a new referral. You will be added to the bottom of the waitlist.
Treatment Appointments
- If you cancel with at least 48 hours notice, we will reschedule your appointment as availability allows.
- One or more missed or cancelled treatment appointments may be rescheduled at the prescribing physician’s discretion and as availability allows.
Follow-Up Appointments
- If you cancel with at least 48 hours’ notice, we will offer a new appointment as availability allows.
- After two missed or cancelled appointments in a row, we will close your file. A new referral is required to return.
Important Notes:
- If you miss an appointment, it is your responsibility to call 613-544-4900 ext. 53228 to request a new one.
- We appreciate your understanding. Your commitment helps us support as many individuals as possible in their mental health journey.
FAQs
What are the potential benefits?
Ketamine may provide fast-acting relief for people living with severe or treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders, especially when standard treatments have not been effective. It works differently than regular medicine, targeting brain pathways that affect mood to help bring things back into balance and ease symptoms.
What are some of the side effects of Ketamine?
Some of the most common side effects from Ketamine can include:
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Bruising
- Pain
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased heart rate (10% change from baseline)
- Increased urination
- Liver damage (rare)
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
- Worsening suicidal ideation
What should I do before my treatment?
Talk to your doctor about what medications are suitable for you to take or avoid before treament. We suggest you bring an eye mask and headphones with you to decrease your exposure to light and noise.
Do not take benzodiazepines 12 hours prior to your treatment. If you feel unwell or have symptoms of infectious illness, contact us to re-schedule your treatment.
What happens after treatment?
Contact Information
Providence Care Hospital
752 King St W, Kingston, ON K7L 4X3
613-544-4900
Hours of Operation
Our facilities operate 24/7, but building access and available services vary by location and time of day. Some entrances may be locked, and ID badge or intercom access may be required.
Clinic and outpatient service hours also differ. Please contact your specific care area or clinic for details.
Program Secretary
613-544-4900, ext. 53217
Program Manager
613-544-4900, ext. 5321
Regional Director
613-544-4900, ext. 34101
Vice President, Patient Care, Long Term Care and Chief Nursing Executive
613-544-4900, ext. 53391
