How Often Do You Get Ketamine Infusions For Pain

Have you ever felt like you're stuck in a never-ending battle with chronic pain? It’s tough physically, emotionally, and mentally. That’s why many people are turning to ketamine infusions as a fresh way to find relief. It might sound intimidating at first, but the hope it brings can be incredibly powerful.

In a recent review of 11 studies, researchers found ketamine can significantly reduce chronic pain, with a moderate to large effect so the results aren't just minor improvements (effect size g ≈ 1.75, p = .001). And these aren’t just numbers on a page they represent real people getting back to life.

This blog will walk you through how often people typically get ketamine infusions for pain, why frequency matters, and how treatments are customized based on how your body responds.

Understanding Ketamine Infusion Therapy

If you’ve only heard of ketamine as an old anesthesia drug, you might be surprised to know it’s now helping people manage certain types of stubborn pain. Originally approved by the FDA in the 1970s for use in surgeries, ketamine works differently from most pain medicines, it targets the NMDA receptors in the brain, which play a key role in how we process pain signals.

In simple terms, ketamine helps “reset” how your nervous system experiences pain. For people whose pain hasn’t improved with standard treatments, this can feel like hitting a reset button on their daily life.

During an infusion, ketamine is given slowly through an IV, usually in a clinic setting, while a medical professional monitors you closely. Sessions can last anywhere from 40 minutes to several hours, depending on your treatment plan. The goal isn’t just to numb pain for a short time, it’s to help reduce pain levels for days, weeks, or even months.

Ketamine infusion therapy has shown promise for conditions like fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), neuropathic pain, migraines, and even certain mood disorders. While it’s not a cure, for many patients it’s a new way to reclaim activities and moments they’ve been missing because of chronic pain.

The Two Main Phases of Ketamine Treatment

Ketamine therapy usually isn’t a “one and done” kind of treatment. Most people go through it in two stages: the induction phase to get things started, and the maintenance phase to help keep pain under control for the long haul. You can think of it like planting a seed and then watering it regularly so it keeps growing.

Induction Phase (Initial Series)

This is where your treatment journey begins. Most clinics recommend 6–10 infusions over 2–4 weeks, with 1–2 sessions per week. This concentrated schedule helps ketamine build up its effect in your system and “reset” your pain pathways. By stacking the treatments close together, the relief you get from each infusion can build on the last, giving you the best chance for a strong, lasting response.

Maintenance Phase (Booster Sessions)

Once you’ve completed your initial series, the goal shifts to keeping the pain relief going. Maintenance infusion often called “boosters” can happen every few weeks or every few months, depending on how your body responds. Some people need them monthly, while others can go longer between sessions. Your provider will work with you to fine-tune the schedule based on when symptoms start creeping back, how much relief you’re getting, and any changes in your overall health.

Factors That Influence How Often You’ll Need Infusions

Not everyone’s ketamine journey looks the same. Two people with the same diagnosis can respond in totally different ways. That’s because several factors—some medical, some personal, play a role in deciding how often you might need infusions. Here are the biggest ones:

Type and Severity of Your Pain Condition

If your pain is linked to something aggressive like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or severe neuropathy, you might need more frequent boosters to keep symptoms under control. Milder or less persistent conditions may require infusions less often.

Individual Response to Treatment

Some people feel noticeable relief after just a few infusions, while others need a longer build-up before benefits kick in. Your body’s unique chemistry determines how quickly and how long ketamine works for you.

Duration of Pain Relief Achieved

For some, the effects last a couple of months; for others, relief fades within a few weeks. The shorter the relief period, the more often boosters may be needed.

Provider Protocols and Clinical Guidelines

Different clinics have different philosophies. Some follow research-based protocols (like 6–12 infusions per year), while others adjust solely based on your feedback and pain diary. Your doctor’s approach will influence your schedule.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right ketamine infusion schedule is not about following a one-size-fits-all rule. it’s about finding what works best for you. For some, relief comes quickly and lasts for months. For others, boosters are needed more often to keep pain from taking over again. The most important thing is working with a team that listens, monitors your progress, and adjusts your plan based on your unique needs.

At Mass Mind Center, we don’t just offer ketamine infusions we offer hope, compassion, and a personalized approach to care. Our team is experienced in tailoring treatment plans for chronic pain, mood disorders, and other conditions, making sure every step feels safe and supported. Beyond ketamine therapy, we also provide a range of mental health and wellness services designed to help you heal, recover, and live life on your terms.

If chronic pain has been holding you back, know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to guide you through your options, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward feeling like yourself again.