Call Us

(949) 763-3440

Text Us

(949) 763-3440

Covered?

Verify Now

Contact

Send Us a Message

Ketamine Nausea and Vomiting

Ketamine Nausea and Vomiting

Table of Contents

Ketamine therapy has emerged as a promising alternative treatment for depression, particularly for individuals who have not responded well to traditional antidepressants. Despite its benefits, ketamine, like any medication, comes with a range of side effects. Among the most common and uncomfortable are ketamine nausea and vomiting. Understanding the causes, duration, and management of ketamine-induced nausea is crucial for patients to navigate their treatment effectively and minimize discomfort.

What Causes Nausea and Vomiting After Ketamine Treatment?

Many individuals experience nausea after ketamine infusions due to several contributing factors. Ketamine side effects can impact both the central nervous system (CNS) and the gastrointestinal (GI) system, leading to dizziness, disorientation, and stomach discomfort. The dissociative effects of ketamine therapy can trigger motion sickness-like symptoms, making nausea a frequent complaint.


Additionally, ketamine infusion side effects include dehydration, which can worsen nausea. Changes in blood pressure from ketamine treatment may also contribute to dizziness and stomach unease. Patients undergoing low-dose ketamine therapy or oral ketamine treatment may experience fewer side effects compared to those receiving IV ketamine infusions for depression or pain management.

Key Factors Leading to Nausea and Vomiting

  • Impact on the CNS: Dizziness and disorientation contribute to nausea.
  • Changes in Blood Pressure: Fluctuations in ketamine blood pressure effects may lead to nausea and vomiting.
  • Gastrointestinal Irritation: Ketamine GI side effects can trigger stomach discomfort, especially on an empty stomach.
  • Dehydration: Ketamine dehydration can worsen nausea and dizziness.
  • Slowed Digestion: Side effects of ketamine therapy may slow the digestive process, increasing discomfort.

How Long Does Nausea from Ketamine Last?

Most ketamine nausea symptoms subside within four to six hours post-infusion. However, some individuals experience nausea after ketamine therapy that lingers into the following day. The duration of ketamine treatment side effects depends on:

  • Dosage: Low-dose ketamine side effects may be less severe than high-dose ketamine effects.
  • Method of Administration: IV ketamine therapy has a quicker onset but shorter duration than oral ketamine side effects, which may last longer.
  • Metabolic Differences: Some patients process ketamine side effects for depression differently, leading to prolonged nausea.

Addiction Treatment Covered by Insurance

Asana Recovery works with most PPO plans, covering up to 100%. See if your insurance can help fund your journey. Click below to get a free quote. 

Managing and Preventing Ketamine-Induced Nausea


Pre-Treatment Preparation

To minimize ketamine nausea and vomiting, preparation before treatment is essential. Patients are advised to avoid eating for a few hours before their infusion.
Other pre-treatment strategies include:

  • Hydration: Drinking water in moderation to prevent ketamine dehydration.
  • Anti-Nausea Medication: Taking ondansetron (Zofran) before a ketamine infusion to reduce nausea.
  • Avoiding Triggers: Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before treatment.

Post-Treatment Strategies

After the infusion, managing nausea from ketamine therapy includes:

  • Resting in a Dark Room: Reduces sensory stimulation that can worsen nausea.
  • Deep Breathing Exercises: Helps mitigate dizziness and ketamine side effects.
  • Ginger Tea & Light Foods: Can ease ketamine GI side effects.
  • Electrolyte Drinks: Replenish fluids to counter ketamine dehydration effects.

Other Common Ketamine Side Effects

Beyond nausea from ketamine, patients may experience:

  • Dizziness & Disorientation: Linked to ketamine blood pressure effects.
  • Headaches: A common ketamine headache side effect, possibly due to ketamine dehydration.
  • Fatigue & Drowsiness: Many report feeling tired the day after ketamine treatment.
  • Digestive Issues: Constipation from ketamine or diarrhea as a ketamine side effect.
  • Increased Blood Pressure: Up to 20% of patients require blood pressure management during ketamine infusions.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Ketamine Side Effects

While most side effects of ketamine therapy resolve quickly, some require medical attention:

  • Severe Vomiting: Leading to dehydration.
  • Intense Dizziness or Fainting: May indicate negative effects of ketamine on blood pressure.
  • Chest Pain or Breathing Issues: Could be related to ketamine infusion side effects.
  • Suicidal Thoughts: Rare, but possible with ketamine treatment for depression side effects.

Long-Term Considerations of Ketamine Therapy

Repeated ketamine infusions for depression may lead to long-term ketamine side effects, including:

  • Chronic GI Issues: Persistent ketamine nausea and vomiting.
  • Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Patients with ketamine hypertension effects should be monitored.
  • Neurological Sensitivity: Long-term effects of ketamine microdose therapy are still under study.

Final Thoughts

Ketamine therapy for depression is effective, but ketamine side effects in humans, such as nausea, must be managed properly. Understanding ketamine nausea treatment options, preparing for IV ketamine side effects, and monitoring long-term ketamine effects can help ensure a smoother treatment experience. Always consult with your provider regarding ketamine therapy side effects and report any persistent symptoms.


By integrating ketamine nausea prevention strategies and understanding the side effects of ketamine therapy, patients can better prepare for their treatment and minimize discomfort.

Take the Next Step with Asana Recovery

At Asana Recovery, we understand that every treatment journey is unique. If you’re exploring ketamine therapy for depression or dealing with ketamine infusion side effects, our expert team is here to support you. Our compassionate professionals provide personalized care, ensuring you receive safe, monitored treatment in a comfortable environment.
If you’re experiencing ketamine nausea and vomiting, have concerns about ketamine treatment side effects, or need guidance on managing low-dose ketamine side effects, our specialists can help.

Find Your First Step in Recovery, Supported by Shared Experience

We get it. Addiction recovery is tough. That’s why our programs are founded and staffed by people in recovery – people who truly understand.

FAQs About Ketamine and Nausea


Why does ketamine cause nausea?

Ketamine nausea effects stem from CNS impact, blood pressure fluctuations, and GI irritation. The drug affects the vestibular system, causing symptoms similar to motion sickness, while also slowing digestion, increasing the likelihood of nausea and vomiting.

What helps with nausea after ketamine?

To reduce ketamine nausea symptoms, patients should stay hydrated, rest in a quiet environment, and consume mild foods like crackers or ginger tea. Anti-nausea medication before ketamine treatment, such as ondansetron (Zofran), can also be beneficial.

Can ketamine cause long-term nausea?

While long-term ketamine therapy side effects usually do not include chronic nausea, some individuals with sensitive GI systems may experience prolonged discomfort. If nausea persists beyond 24 hours after treatment, consult a healthcare provider.

How can I prevent nausea before ketamine treatment?

  • Avoid heavy meals before the session.
  • Stay hydrated but do not overconsume liquids.
  • Consider anti-nausea medication for ketamine infusions.
  • Discuss dietary adjustments with a healthcare provider.

What should I eat after ketamine therapy?

Bland, easy-to-digest foods such as toast, bananas, and crackers can help settle the stomach. Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods that may worsen ketamine nausea and vomiting.

Does ketamine cause constipation or diarrhea?

Yes, ketamine infusion therapy side effects can include constipation from ketamine use or, less commonly, diarrhea as a ketamine side effect. Drinking water and consuming fiber-rich foods can help regulate digestion.

Does ketamine raise blood pressure, leading to nausea?

Ketamine blood pressure effects can temporarily raise blood pressure, which may contribute to nausea. Patients with hypertension should discuss risk factors with their provider before starting ketamine therapy.

Informational Sources

  • National Library of Medicine. (2021). The effects of ketamine on nausea and vomiting. PubMed.
  • National Institutes of Health. (2014). Ketamine’s role in treatment-resistant depression. PMC.
  • Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust. (n.d.). Ketamine for treatment-resistant depression: Risks and benefits. Oxford Health.
  • National Library of Medicine. (2009). Ketamine’s impact on central nervous system function. PubMed.
  • WebMD. (n.d.). What does ketamine do to your brain? WebMD.

Take the first step

Take your first step towards lasting recovery. At Asana, we offer effective, insurance-covered treatment for addiction and mental health, guided by experts who understand because they’ve been there. Start your healing today.

Meet the Book That’s
Changing Lives

Asana Recovery - Premier Addiction Treatment Center In Orange County-Recovery Starts Here - Aasana Recovery - Original_Page_01 1(1)

Meet the Book That’s
Changing Lives

This book has helped so many men and women; and we want to give it you for FREE. Get signed up today and discover how to unlock the grip of addiction and get back to living your best life.

In this book, you’ll discover…

— The Most Common Misconceptions About Addiction and Rehab

 

— Why Rock Bottom is a Myth and What You Can Do About It

 

–The Steps to Healing From Trauma, Both Mentally and Emotionally

 

–And much more!

Verify Insurance for Free

You could save up to 100% of your treatment using your Insurance.

We are in-network with Cigna Insurance.
We are in-network with BlueCross BlueShield Insurance.
We are in-network with Magellan Health Insurance.
We are in-network with Aetna Insurance.
We are in-network with Anthem Insurance.
We are in-network with Beacon Health Options Insurance.

We're Here to Help

Take the first step toward a better future—call us today!