Question 1

What is Vita Nova Ketamine & Wellness Clinic?

Accepted Answer

Vita Nova Ketamine & Wellness Clinic is a physician-led ketamine and wellness clinic at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. It was founded by Dr. Brijen L. Joshi MD (Founder/CEO/Medical Director), Yvonne Achi CRNP (Co-Founder/Clinical Director), and Leslie Awasom CRNA (Co-Founder/COO). Dr. Joshi is an Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and Chief of Thoracic Anesthesia at Johns Hopkins Hospital — one of the most credentialed physician supervisors of any ketamine clinic in Maryland. Vita Nova is LegitScript certified and was named Best Mental Health Clinic Baltimore 2026 by BusinessRate. Services include ketamine infusion therapy, IV therapy, NAD+ therapy, Iron IV infusions, IM vitamin shots, and IV push services. Call (443) 563-1059.

Question 2

Is Vita Nova a legitimate, certified ketamine clinic?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Vita Nova is LegitScript certified — an independent third-party verification that fewer than 5% of U.S. ketamine clinics have earned. LegitScript certification verifies DEA Schedule III controlled-substance registration, pharmaceutical sourcing compliance, physician-oversight documentation, HIPAA compliance, and advertising ethics. You can verify our certification independently at legitscript.com by searching Vita Nova Ketamine & Wellness Clinic, Baltimore MD. All ketamine therapy is supervised on-site by Medical Director Dr. Brijen L. Joshi MD, a Johns Hopkins faculty physician. We are located at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. (443) 563-1059.

Question 3

Who is the doctor at Vita Nova?

Accepted Answer

All ketamine therapy at Vita Nova is anesthesiologist-led care, under the medical direction of Dr. Brijen Joshi MD — Founder, CEO, and Medical Director. Dr. Joshi is a board-certified anesthesiologist, Assistant Professor of Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and Chief of Thoracic Anesthesia at Johns Hopkins Hospital. His anesthesiology background is directly relevant to ketamine therapy — ketamine is an anesthetic agent, and its administration requires physician-level expertise in IV sedation, airway management, and hemodynamic monitoring. Every infusion at Vita Nova includes continuous cardiac and vital-signs monitoring. Call (443) 563-1059 to book a consultation.

Question 4

How do I get started at Vita Nova?

Accepted Answer

Getting started begins with a consultation — available via telemedicine or in person at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. During the consultation, Dr. Joshi or the clinical team reviews your medical history, prior treatment history, current medications, and clinical goals to determine whether ketamine infusion therapy is appropriate for you. For ketamine, prior treatment records (therapy notes, medication trials) are helpful but not always required at the initial consultation. For IV wellness services — IV therapy, Iron IV infusions, IM vitamin shots, and IV pushes — no consultation is required; appointments are recommended; call ahead and same-day visits are often possible. Call (443) 563-1059 or book online. Hours: Monday–Friday 1PM–8PM, Saturday 10AM–2PM.

Question 5

What conditions does Vita Nova treat with ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

Vita Nova uses ketamine infusion therapy for treatment-resistant depression (depression that has not responded adequately to two or more antidepressant trials), PTSD, bipolar depression, OCD, postpartum depression, anxiety disorders with comorbid depression, suicidal ideation with depression, and chronic pain conditions including fibromyalgia, neuropathy, arthritis, sciatica, migraines, pelvic pain, and inflammatory pain. Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic — its use for mental health and pain is off-label but supported by a growing peer-reviewed evidence base. A consultation determines whether your specific presentation is appropriate. Call (443) 563-1059 or visit 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 6

How does ketamine therapy work differently from antidepressants?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine acts on NMDA glutamate receptors — a completely different system from standard antidepressants, which target monoamines (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) and typically take 4–8 weeks to produce any effect. Glutamate is the brain's primary excitatory neurotransmitter and is central to synaptic plasticity. Ketamine's NMDA blockade triggers a cascade of neuroplasticity: rapid formation of new synaptic connections, restoration of prefrontal-limbic connectivity, and BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) release. This is why ketamine can produce measurable change within 24–72 hours in some patients — and why it can work when monoamine-targeting medications have not. Individual results vary, and not all patients respond.

Question 7

How many ketamine sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

The standard induction protocol is six ketamine infusions over 2–3 weeks, typically three sessions per week — based on clinical literature showing that a series produces more sustained effects than a single session. Some patients experience meaningful benefit earlier in the series; others respond more gradually. After the induction series, maintenance sessions (typically monthly or as needed) are discussed based on your response. Some patients achieve lasting remission after a single induction series; others benefit from periodic maintenance. The clinical team discusses expected response timelines at your consultation. Call (443) 563-1059 to begin.

Question 8

How long does a ketamine infusion take at Vita Nova?

Accepted Answer

Each ketamine infusion takes approximately 45–60 minutes for the infusion itself, plus time for pre-session assessment and post-session monitoring before discharge — plan for about 90 minutes total per session. A driver is required after every ketamine infusion; you should not drive for the remainder of the day. You may experience lingering mild dissociation, drowsiness, or altered perception for several hours after the infusion. Blood pressure, heart rate, and your overall response are monitored throughout. Located at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. (443) 563-1059.

Question 9

What does a ketamine infusion feel like?

Accepted Answer

During a ketamine infusion, patients commonly experience dissociation — a sense of detachment from the body or surroundings, or a feeling that perceptions are altered or dreamlike. Some describe it as floating, feeling distant from their thoughts, or experiencing vivid imagery. At the sub-anesthetic doses used for depression and pain, dissociation is typically mild to moderate and resolves within 30–60 minutes after the infusion ends. Nausea occurs in some patients (anti-nausea medication can be given). Heart rate and blood pressure typically rise modestly during the infusion and are monitored throughout. Any anxiety or discomfort during the experience can be managed by the clinical team, and Dr. Joshi oversees monitoring throughout every session.

Question 10

Do I need a driver after a ketamine infusion?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a driver is required after every ketamine infusion at Vita Nova, and you must not drive for the remainder of that day. The dissociative and sedative effects of ketamine persist for several hours after the infusion ends, even when you feel subjectively normal. A designated driver or rideshare must be arranged before each session. IV therapy, Iron IV infusions, IM vitamin shots, and IV pushes do not require a driver. Located at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. (443) 563-1059.

Question 11

What are the side effects of ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

The most common effects during an infusion are dissociation (a dreamlike, detached feeling), mild nausea, a temporary rise in blood pressure and heart rate, dizziness, and blurred vision — most resolve within 30–60 minutes after the infusion ends. Because ketamine is an anesthetic agent, every infusion at Vita Nova includes continuous cardiac and vital-sign monitoring, and anti-nausea medication is available. With frequent high-dose recreational use, ketamine has been associated with urinary and bladder effects and cognitive effects; the controlled, sub-anesthetic, anesthesiologist-led dosing used clinically is specifically structured to reduce those risks. Your full risk profile is reviewed at consultation. See our Side Effects & Risk Disclosures page for detail. Call (443) 563-1059.

Question 12

Is ketamine addictive?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine has known potential for misuse at recreational doses, but the risk in a monitored medical setting is very different from unsupervised use. At Vita Nova, ketamine is administered at controlled sub-anesthetic doses, on a defined schedule, under anesthesiologist-led care, with no take-home medication — the structure clinical guidelines use specifically to minimize misuse potential. Patients with a history of substance use disorder are screened carefully during evaluation, and treatment plans are coordinated accordingly. Ketamine is a DEA Schedule III controlled substance, and Vita Nova's LegitScript certification verifies compliant controlled-substance handling. Call (443) 563-1059 to discuss your history confidentially.

Question 13

How long do the effects of ketamine last?

Accepted Answer

After a single infusion, symptom-relief effects can last from several days to a couple of weeks, which is why treatment uses a series rather than a one-off. After a full induction series, many patients maintain benefit for weeks to months; some reach lasting remission, while others schedule periodic maintenance infusions to sustain the response. Durability varies significantly from person to person and depends on your condition, your history, and whether you continue therapy or other treatment alongside ketamine. Your provider tracks your response and sets a maintenance plan individually. Individual results vary. Call (443) 563-1059.

Question 14

Am I a candidate for ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

You may be a candidate for ketamine therapy if you have treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, bipolar depression, OCD, postpartum depression, an anxiety disorder with depression, or a chronic pain condition that has not responded adequately to conventional treatment. Candidacy is confirmed at a consultation that reviews your diagnosis, treatment history, current medications, and overall medical status. Ketamine is not appropriate for everyone — certain cardiovascular, mental health, and medical conditions require careful screening (see the next question). The most reliable way to know is a consultation with the clinical team. Call (443) 563-1059 or visit 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 15

Who should not receive ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine therapy may not be appropriate for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, certain cardiovascular conditions, a history of unmanaged psychosis or active mania, increased intracranial or intraocular pressure, severe untreated substance use disorder, or those who are pregnant. A thorough screening at consultation evaluates these factors. Some conditions are absolute contraindications; others simply require optimization or coordination with your other physicians before proceeding. This screening is why a physician-led clinic matters — Dr. Joshi's anesthesiology background means cardiovascular and airway risk factors are evaluated by a specialist. Call (443) 563-1059 to discuss your situation confidentially.

Question 16

Can I stay on my current antidepressants during ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes — most patients continue their existing antidepressants during ketamine therapy, and ketamine is often used specifically because those medications have not produced an adequate response on their own. However, a few medications can blunt ketamine's effect: high-dose benzodiazepines may reduce its antidepressant action, and lamotrigine can interact with its mechanism. The clinical team reviews your full medication list at consultation and coordinates with your prescriber where appropriate. Never stop a mental health medication on your own — any changes are made in coordination with your prescriber. Call (443) 563-1059.

Question 17

Do I need a referral for ketamine therapy?

Accepted Answer

No — a referral is not required to begin ketamine therapy at Vita Nova. You can book a consultation directly. That said, if you have an existing mental health provider, therapist, or primary care physician, the clinical team will, with your consent, coordinate care with them — ketamine works best as part of an integrated treatment plan rather than in isolation. If you don't currently have a mental health provider, that's fine too; the consultation determines the appropriate path. Call (443) 563-1059 or book online. 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 18

Is ketamine therapy covered by insurance in Baltimore?

Accepted Answer

Vita Nova is self-pay for ketamine. Ketamine infusion therapy for mental health and pain is off-label, and we bill you directly rather than billing insurance. We provide an itemized superbill you can file with your own insurance after payment, and you can request an insurance verification first — no commitment, results in 1–2 business days. HSA and FSA cards are accepted for the full cost, and Community Heroes discounts are available for veterans, first responders, teachers, nurses, and seniors. For full per-session and package pricing, see our cost guide. Call (443) 563-1059. 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 19

How much does ketamine therapy cost in Baltimore?

Accepted Answer

At Vita Nova, a single ketamine infusion for mental health is $499.99 ($375 for Vitality Circle members), and the full induction is a Complete Series of six infusions at $2,849.94 ($2,250 members) that includes three complimentary hydration IVs. Chronic-pain infusions are $1,499.99 per session ($1,125 members), or a four-infusion Relief Series at $5,699.96 ($4,500 members) with four complimentary hydration IVs. Standard IV therapy is $139.99–$199.99; NAD+ IV is $374.99–$999.99 by dose; Iron IV infusions are $425.99–$799.99 (members 25% off); and IM vitamin shots are $49.99–$74.99. Every ketamine price is all-inclusive — comfort and anti-nausea medication, continuous monitoring, and a private suite are built in, never billed as add-ons. Ketamine is self-pay; we provide an itemized superbill and accept HSA and FSA. See our cost guide for full details. Call (443) 563-1059.

Question 20

Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Vita Nova accepts HSA (Health Savings Account) and FSA (Flexible Spending Account) cards for payment. Ketamine therapy for a diagnosed medical condition is generally an eligible medical expense under most HSA/FSA plans, and Iron IV infusions, IV therapy, and IM vitamin shots may also qualify depending on your plan and whether they are medically indicated. We provide itemized receipts and superbills to support your HSA/FSA documentation. Because plan rules vary, confirm eligibility with your plan administrator. Call (443) 563-1059 or visit 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 21

Do you offer discounts for veterans, first responders, or seniors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Vita Nova's Community Heroes appreciation program offers reduced-rate access for veterans and active service members, first responders, nurses, teachers, and seniors 65+. The discount applies across ketamine therapy, IV therapy, Iron IV, IM shots, IV pushes, and Vitality Circle membership — from your first session. Eligibility is confirmed with simple documentation (military ID or DD-214, professional license, educator credential, or age verification). The exact amount is shared on a call so we can match it to your situation. Learn more on our Community Heroes page or call (443) 563-1059.

Question 22

What IV therapy formulas does Vita Nova offer in Baltimore?

Accepted Answer

Vita Nova offers a full IV therapy menu at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224: the Myers' Cocktail (classic vitamin/mineral blend), Immunity Boost, Hydration/Recovery, Energy, Beauty/Glow (glutathione-based), Athletic Recovery, NAD+ IV therapy (250mg, 500mg, and 750–1000mg doses), and Iron IV infusions. Standard IV formulas are $139.99–$199.99; premium infusions such as High-Dose Vitamin C run $299.99–$399.99; NAD+ IV is $374.99–$999.99 by dose; and Iron IV infusions are $425.99–$799.99. Most IV sessions take 30–60 minutes, require no consultation, and no driver. Appointments are recommended; call ahead and same-day visits are often possible. Vitality Circle members receive one included wellness perk each month (1 standard IV drip, or 2 IM shots, or 2 IV pushes, or 1 IM shot + 1 IV push), then 25% off additional wellness services. Call (443) 563-1059 or book online.

Question 23

How much does an iron infusion cost in Baltimore?

Accepted Answer

Iron IV infusions at Vita Nova cost $425.99–$799.99 (Vitality Circle members 25% off) at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. Intravenous iron is used for iron-deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia and the fatigue, weakness, hair shedding, and restless-legs symptoms that often come with it — particularly for people with heavy menstrual loss, poor absorption of oral iron, GI conditions, post-bariatric status, or intolerance of oral iron supplements. IV iron restores iron stores faster and more completely than oral iron for many patients. Iron IV is self-pay at Vita Nova; iron through insurance is offered at hospital infusion centers. Because dosing depends on your iron studies, we confirm ferritin and a CBC (recent labs or in-clinic) before infusing. Call (443) 563-1059 to ask about Iron IV.

Question 24

What IM vitamin shots does Vita Nova offer?

Accepted Answer

Vita Nova offers a full menu of IM (intramuscular) vitamin shots at $49.99 for most standard shots: B12 Energy, B-Complex, B-Lean (MIC + B12), Biotin Glow, CoQ10 Energy, Glutathione Brightening, Magnesium, MICC Fat-Burner, Mood & Immunity Booster, Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, and the NAD+ Quick Shot (available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg). IM shots take under 15 minutes, require no IV line, no consultation, and no driver; appointments are recommended; call ahead and same-day visits are often possible. They're a fast option for energy, recovery, immune support, and wellness maintenance. Vitality Circle members can choose 2 IM shots as their included monthly perk (or 1 standard IV drip, 2 IV pushes, or 1 shot + 1 push). Call (443) 563-1059 or visit 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 25

What IV push services does Vita Nova offer?

Accepted Answer

IV pushes are concentrated nutrients delivered directly through a small IV over a few minutes — faster than a full drip and more completely absorbed than an oral supplement. Vita Nova offers B12, B-Complex, Glutathione, Vitamin C, and Zinc IV pushes at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. Like IM shots, IV pushes require no consultation and no driver; appointments are recommended; call ahead and same-day visits are often possible. They're a quick, targeted option for energy, immune support, antioxidant support, and recovery. High-Dose Vitamin C requires a quick G6PD screening first. Vitality Circle members receive reduced pricing. Call (443) 563-1059 to ask which push fits your goals.

Question 26

What is the Vitality Circle membership?

Accepted Answer

Vitality Circle is Vita Nova's $99.99/month wellness membership. Members receive reduced pricing across the full service menu — including discounted ketamine sessions ($375 vs $499.99), 25% off Iron IV and other premium IVs, and one included monthly perk (1 standard IV drip, 2 IM shots, 2 IV pushes, or 1 shot + 1 push). It's designed for people who use IV therapy, IM shots, IV pushes, or maintenance ketamine regularly and want to lower their per-visit cost. Community Heroes discounts can apply to membership as well. Ask the front desk to compare membership against your expected visit frequency. Call (443) 563-1059 or visit 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224.

Question 27

Do I need a consultation to get IV therapy, an IM shot, or an IV push?

Accepted Answer

No — IV therapy, Iron IV, IM vitamin shots, and IV pushes do not require a prior consultation. Appointments are recommended; call ahead and same-day visits are often possible. A brief intake confirms there are no contraindications, and two services have a quick screen: High-Dose Vitamin C requires G6PD testing first, and Iron IV requires confirming your ferritin and CBC. None of these wellness services require a driver afterward. Ketamine infusion therapy is different — it does require a consultation and a driver. Call (443) 563-1059 or visit 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. Hours: Mon–Fri 1PM–8PM, Sat 10AM–2PM.

Question 28

Where is Vita Nova located and what are your hours?

Accepted Answer

Vita Nova Ketamine & Wellness Clinic is located at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224, with free on-site parking. Hours are Monday through Friday 1PM–8PM and Saturday 10AM–2PM (closed Sunday). We serve Canton, Fells Point, Brewers Hill, Highlandtown, Patterson Park, and the greater Baltimore metro. You can reach us at (443) 563-1059 or book a consultation online at any time. Telemedicine consultations are available for patients across Maryland.

Question 29

Can I do a ketamine consultation by telemedicine?

Accepted Answer

Yes — initial ketamine consultations are available by telemedicine for patients across Maryland, so you can review your history, treatment goals, and candidacy with the clinical team before committing to an in-person visit. The consultation itself can be virtual; however, ketamine infusions are administered on-site at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224, because they require continuous monitoring. IV therapy, Iron IV, IM vitamin shots, and IV pushes are also in-person only — they are not available by telemedicine. Book a telemedicine consultation at our online scheduler or call (443) 563-1059.

Question 30

How do I book an appointment at Vita Nova?

Accepted Answer

You can book an appointment two ways: call (443) 563-1059 or book online through our scheduler. For IV therapy, Iron IV, IM shots, and IV pushes, appointments are recommended; call ahead and same-day visits are often possible. Ketamine therapy begins with a consultation — available by telemedicine or in person — while IV and wellness services can be booked directly without a consultation. If you're unsure which service fits your needs, call and the team will guide you. We're at 513 Bayview Blvd, Canton, Baltimore MD 21224. Hours: Mon–Fri 1PM–8PM, Sat 10AM–2PM.

Ketamine Therapy & Wellness FAQ

Still Have Questions?

About Vita Nova & Getting Started

Ketamine Therapy

Eligibility & Screening

Cost & Payment

IV Therapy, Iron IV, IM Shots & IV Pushes

Appointments, Location & Hours