Potential Side Effects of Ketamine Therapy
Most side effects are transient and resolve within hours.
This page has been written and edited by the publisher. It has not been reviewed by a licensed clinician.
Common (most sessions)
- Dissociation during the active phase
- Transient BP / heart rate rise
- Mild nausea
- Dizziness or unsteadiness
- Post-session fatigue (2–6 hours)
Less common
- Headache
- Vivid dreams the night of
- Brief emotional reactivity in the 24–48 hours after
- Mild urinary urgency (rare in therapeutic dosing)
Rare / serious
- Severe BP elevation requiring intervention
- Prolonged dissociation or confusion
- Worsening mood or suicidal ideation
- Allergic reaction
Any of the rare events should prompt immediate clinic contact.
Related reading
Educational content only. Not medical advice. Discuss any treatment decisions with a qualified clinician.
Publisher and editor of Ketalux, based in Chicago, Illinois. Ira is a ketamine therapy patient, not a clinician. This is editorial review, not medical review: Ira is not a licensed clinician and does not provide diagnosis or medical care. Ketalux does not accept compensation from providers in exchange for favorable editorial coverage, evidence ratings, recommendations, patient referrals, or organic provider ranking. Read the full publisher disclosure →
Educational use only. The content on this page is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ketamine and related therapies carry risks and are appropriate only under qualified medical supervision. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional about your individual situation. Information may change as research evolves.