Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative shifts in mood or thinking, and heightened arousal or hypervigilance. At Revitalize Ketamine Clinic in Flagstaff, AZ, we work with patients whose trauma symptoms continue to affect daily life, relationships, sleep, and sense of safety. For an overview of what early care can involve, read our first month of PTSD treatment guide.
Understanding PTSD and Established Treatment Options
PTSD is a serious but treatable condition. Evidence-based care often includes trauma-focused psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Medication may also be considered as part of an individualized treatment plan.
For some people, symptoms remain difficult despite prior treatment. When that occurs, it is important to work with qualified mental health professionals to review the full range of care options, including established PTSD treatments and support for any co-occurring depression, anxiety, or substance-use concerns.
How IV Ketamine Relates to PTSD Research
Ketamine treatment involves a medication that is FDA-approved as an anesthetic and acts primarily as an NMDA receptor antagonist. Its use for PTSD is off-label, meaning it is not FDA-approved for this indication.
Small randomized clinical trials have explored whether repeated IV ketamine infusions may reduce PTSD symptom severity for some people. However, the evidence remains limited. The 2023 VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline suggests against ketamine for the treatment of PTSD because available trials have not demonstrated sufficiently clear benefit in relation to its risks and side-effect burden. IV ketamine should not replace trauma-focused psychotherapy or other established PTSD care.
To better understand what is the science behind ketamine therapy, including how it interacts with brain receptors and why researchers continue to study its potential, our dedicated overview covers the key mechanisms in depth.
At Revitalize, any discussion of ketamine begins with a clinical evaluation, medical screening, medication review, and conversation about realistic expectations, risks, and alternatives.
Our IV Ketamine Protocol at Revitalize Flagstaff
Revitalize’s current PTSD treatment guide describes a $625 initial intake that includes assessment, education, and integration-workbook review. The same guide lists subsequent infusions in an initial series at $525 each and maintenance infusions at $425. Pricing and treatment recommendations can change, so patients should confirm current details during consultation.
Revitalize’s published PTSD guidance describes an initial series of six infusions over two to three weeks, with infusion sessions lasting approximately 40 minutes and continuous clinical monitoring. The precise schedule, dose, and appropriateness of treatment must be individualized.
Ketamine can cause temporary altered perceptions, dissociation, dizziness, nausea, or increases in blood pressure. Patients should discuss their full medical and psychiatric history with a qualified provider before pursuing treatment. For additional preparation information, visit our ketamine FAQs.
Integration and Ongoing Support
Ketamine is not a standalone cure for PTSD. Revitalize describes counseling and integration therapy as support services intended to help patients prepare for, reflect on, and make sense of their treatment experiences. Ongoing psychotherapy and support from existing mental health providers can remain important parts of care.
SPRAVATO® for Co-Occurring Treatment-Resistant Depression
Some people with PTSD also live with treatment-resistant depression. In those situations, SPRAVATO® treatment may be discussed for the separately diagnosed depressive condition. SPRAVATO® is an FDA-approved esketamine nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression in adults, but it is not FDA-approved to treat PTSD.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ketamine FDA-approved for PTSD?
No. Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic, but its use for PTSD is off-label. Current VA/DoD PTSD guidance suggests against ketamine for treating PTSD because the evidence has not demonstrated a sufficiently clear benefit.
How many ketamine infusions does PTSD typically require?
Revitalize’s current PTSD guide describes an initial series of six infusions over two to three weeks. The appropriate schedule depends on the individual’s clinical evaluation, medical history, and treatment response.
Can I continue my existing PTSD medications during ketamine treatment?
Medication decisions must be individualized. Your provider should review all current medications, psychiatric history, and medical conditions before treatment. Do not start, stop, or change medication without guidance from your prescribing clinician.
Is TMS covered by insurance at the Flagstaff location?
Revitalize lists several insurers for TMS, including Cigna, Evernorth, Tricare West, and Aetna. Coverage is dependent on your plan, clinical criteria, and prior authorization requirements. TMS coverage is generally tied to depression treatment rather than PTSD treatment.
What is integration therapy?
Integration therapy is a supportive process that may help patients reflect on treatment experiences and incorporate insights into ongoing care. Revitalize lists counseling and integration therapy among its support services.
Key Takeaways
- PTSD is commonly treated with trauma-focused psychotherapy, with medication considered when appropriate.
- IV ketamine for PTSD is off-label and is not FDA-approved for this condition.
- Limited clinical trials have studied ketamine for PTSD, but the current VA/DoD guideline suggests against its use for treating PTSD.
- Revitalize’s published ketamine pricing includes a $625 intake, $525 initial-series infusions, and $425 maintenance infusions. Confirm current rates at consultation.
- TMS and SPRAVATO® may be relevant for separately diagnosed depression, but neither should be presented as FDA-cleared or FDA-approved treatment for PTSD.
If PTSD has continued to affect your life despite prior care, a comprehensive clinical evaluation can help you understand your options. Schedule a consultation with Revitalize Ketamine Clinic in Flagstaff at 928-589-0567. Revitalize also serves patients in Sedona at 928-325-2323 and Prescott Valley at 928-493-8222.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). What is post-traumatic stress disorder? https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd
Feder, A., Costi, S., Rutter, S. B., Collins, A. B., Govindarajulu, U., Jha, M. K., Horn, S. R., Kautz, M., Corniquel, M., Collins, K. A., Bevilacqua, L., Glasgow, A. M., Brallier, J., Pietrzak, R. H., Murrough, J. W., & Charney, D. S. (2021). A randomized controlled trial of repeated ketamine administration for chronic posttraumatic stress disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry, 178(2), 193–202. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2020.20050596
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs & U.S. Department of Defense. (2023). VA/DoD clinical practice guideline for the management of posttraumatic stress disorder and acute stress disorder: Quick reference guide. https://www.healthquality.va.gov/guidelines/MH/ptsd/VA-DoD-CPG-PTSD-Quick-Reference-Guide.pdf
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025). SPRAVATO® (esketamine) nasal spray: Prescribing information. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/211243s016lbl.pdf
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Ketamine therapy, TMS, SPRAVATO®, and medication management should only be pursued under the supervision of a licensed provider familiar with your full medical and psychiatric history. Individual results vary. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or go to your nearest emergency room.