FAQ's

What is an intravenous infusion treatment?

Intravenous infusions are a method of medication administration whereby qualified medical professionals administer medication intravenously (via a drip) in the arm or other accessible area. This method allows for the careful control of dosage, onset and offset of action, as well as potential side effects.

 

1. WHAT MOLECULES ARE USED FOR INTRAVENOUS INFUSIONS?

​

In recognition of the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority's (SAHPRA) regulatory requirements, we refer to this procedure as an intravenous infusion intervention. Specific medicinal details will be discussed with patients by a psychiatrist during the consultation process.

 

The dissociative anaesthetic molecule used in intravenous infusions serves to promote improvements in mood and neuroplasticity, among others, allowing for new perspectives to be adopted in support of health-promoting behaviour change. 

 

2. WHY USE INTRAVENOUS INFUSIONS FOR TREATMENT RESISTANT DEPRESSION?

​

In the year 2000, scientists at Yale University began exploring the potential of some molecules for helping people with treatment resistant depression. They discovered that by administering sub-anaesthetic doses of these molecules, depressive symptoms were rapidly and significantly reduced. Unlike traditional antidepressants which may take weeks to be effective and have a host of unwanted side effects, the benefits of these infusions may be felt within 2 hours. The intravenous infusion of this molecule as a treatment method has been described as ‘the biggest breakthrough in depression research in 50 years.’

​

This is because it is:

Fast-acting: It takes effect within minutes and a single infusion lasts less than an hour.

Generally Safe: It has few risks and side effects. Syntonic's careful medical and psychological screenings ensure safety.

Effective: The positive effects are rapid and robust.

Legal: This medicine is approved for use in South Africa and globally. Syntonic operates only within the boundaries of the South African law and according to SASA and SASOP Guidelines

 

3. HOW DO INTRAVENOUS INFUSIONS TREAT TREATMENT-RESISTANT DEPRESSION & OTHER CONDITIONS?

​

In conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD, neural pathways in the brain become rigid and fixed, resulting in low mood, excessive and repetitive worry, rumination and unhealthy habits. By placing your brain into a state that may be likened to a wakeful dream, this dissociative anaesthetic allows different brain regions to activate, connect and communicate. In this state, we experience fundamental shifts in our perceptions of ourselves and reality, allowing us to process trauma and loss, resolve inner conflict, release suppressed emotion, gain self-insight and transform core beliefs and behaviours that may no longer serve us. 

​

This intervention rapidly targets the biological underpinnings of these conditions. The medicinal substance acts as a rapid-acting agent which promotes neuroplasticity by modulating key neurotransmitter systems, notably the glutamatergic system. This process triggers the growth of new synaptic connections (known as synaptogenesis), particularly in areas of the brain associated with mood and cognition, such as the prefrontal cortex. This essential biological reset helps to counteract the damage and atrophy caused by chronic stress and illness, creating a more flexible and responsive neural environment.

 

4. HOW DO YOU ADMINISTER THE INFUSIONS?

​

Once a psychiatrist has prescribed this treatment, our qualified medical doctors administer it intravenously (via a drip) in the arm. This allows us to carefully control dosage, onset and offset of action, as well as potential side effects. Our beautifully designed, private infusion room provides the perfect setting for a safe and meaningful treatment. You are carefully monitored throughout your experience by our clinical team.

 

5. WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN INFUSION AND HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?

 

You are welcomed into a private booth and seated comfortably in a recliner. An IV is inserted into your arm. Eye shades are placed over your eyes and noise canceling headphones over your ears. Your phone is placed on flight mode and your headphones are connected to our carefully curated Spotify music playlist. Our dedicated doctors administer the medication and monitor your experience closely.

 

The infusion lasts for between 40-60 minutes. 

 

6. HOW DO I MAKE THE BENEFITS LAST LONGER?

 

Evidence suggests that the benefits of the treatment may be supported by thorough preparation and integration therapy. It may further be beneficial for more sustained outcomes to couple these therapies with mindfulness-based practices and positive lifestyle changes. Our experienced clinical team will design a tailor-made program for you based on your unique healthcare needs.

 

7. WHO IS AN UNSUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR SYNTONIC'S INTRAVENOUS INFUSION THERAPY PROGRAM?

 

Despite its good safety profile, this may not be suitable for some, including people with a history of psychosis or those currently struggling with manic episodes. Certain medical conditions may also be contraindicated with this treatment, such as uncontrolled hypertension, a history of brain haemorrhage or aneurism, recent heart attack or stroke and heart arrhythmia. Our clinical team conducts thorough medical and psychological screenings to ensure you are a safe candidate for this treatment option

 

8. WHAT DOES AN INFUSION FEEL LIKE?

​

Although your mindset going into an infusion may impact the nature of your experience, many people describe a sense of awe and peace. Physically, you may experience tingling sensations and slightly elevated heart rate. ‘Out of body’ experiences have also been reported at higher doses.