What You Can Expect During Your First ReviveMed Infusion Therapy Session

Beginning infusion therapy can feel like a big step, especially if it’s your first session.

Many people who come to our ReviveMed infusion therapy clinics in Canberra and Adelaide have tried several medications or therapies without getting the relief they had hoped for.

Infusion therapy offers another way forward. It is a carefully monitored, evidence-based treatment delivered intravenously (through an IV) under medical supervision in a safe hospital environment. It is often recommended for people living with treatment-resistant depression or other mental health conditions, such as PTSD, particularly when traditional treatments have not been effective.

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your first IV therapy session. You may be worried about the unknown, unsure what to expect, or wonder whether you will feel in control. At ReviveMed, everything is explained clearly so you understand what will happen before, during, and after your appointment.

‍

Before Your ReviveMed Infusion Therapy Appointment

You will be referred by your GP or psychiatrist. In some cases, your psychologist may send an enquiry. If you are unsure, our team can guide you through the infusion therapy referral process.

Once your referral is received, one of our nurses will organise a short pre-screening phone call (around 20 minutes). This confirms that you meet the criteria and allows you to ask questions about the ReviveMed infusion process.

If suitable, you will attend a comprehensive onboarding appointment (about one hour). During this session, your medical history and treatment plan will be reviewed, and the ReviveMed infusion process will be explained in detail, so you feel prepared.

In a separate appoint, you will meet with a ReviveMed psychiatrist to ensure the treatment is appropriate and personalised for you; these appointments are all via telehealth.

Before your first infusion therapy session, you will receive clear instructions, consent forms, and a short video explaining the infusion therapy process, so nothing feels unexpected.

You will be asked to:

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Fast for six hours before your infusion

• Arrange for someone to drive you home (you cannot drive after treatment but DVA transport or taxis can be arranged)

‍

‍

When You Arrive for Your ReviveMed Infusion Therapy

When you arrive at one of our infusion therapy locations in Canberra or Adelaide, you will be greeted by the Infusion Coordinator or a member of the nursing team.

You will complete admission paperwork and consent forms. If you feel overwhelmed, a nurse can sit with you and guide you through the process. You are not expected to manage it alone.

If you bring a carer or support person, they are welcome during admission. Infusion rooms remain private treatment spaces.

The clinic environment is calm and structured. Sessions are quiet and softly lit. Although it is a hospital setting, the infusion space is designed to feel peaceful, with dim lighting and either a bed or reclining chair.

There is always time to ask questions before beginning.

‍

During Your ReviveMed Infusion Therapy

Your infusion therapy is delivered under the careful guidance of an anaesthetist with support from nursing staff. Each of your sessions closely monitored from start to finish.

An anaesthetist will place a small IV cannula in your arm. Throughout the session, your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are monitored. You are never left alone.

The infusion itself runs for about 40 minutes. Your total appointment will take around 90 minutes to two hours. There is no rush to leave.

Your comfort matters. During your infusion therapy session, you will have access to:

• A reclining chair or bed

• Warm blankets

• Dimmed lighting

• The option to listen to music

• The option to wear an eye mask

The space is calm and contained to help you feel safe.

It is normal to feel some anxiety at first. Many patients do. The team will check in regularly. If your anxiety increases, nurses are there to support you and can provide medication if needed.

You may experience some mild nausea, light-headedness, or temporary disorientation. If this occurs, it is closely monitored and managed promptly.

‍

After Your ReviveMed Infusion Therapy

After your infusion, you will continue resting while the medication fully wears off and will eventually move to a post-treatment room with comfortable chairs.

Before discharge, nurses will ensure you are back to your usual baseline. You will only be discharged once you feel steady and safe.

Temporary side effects may include nausea, headache, fatigue, or mild dizziness. These are usually manageable with rest, hydration, and medication if required. It is recommended that you rest for the remainder of the day.  

Later that afternoon, you will receive a check-in call to ensure you are feeling safe and supported. Ongoing follow-up continues throughout your program.

Your referring practitioner receives regular updates, so everyone involved in your care remains informed.

‍

Ongoing Support

Your treatment is personalised to you. The program begins with an initial phase of sessions in close succession and may move into maintenance (often every three to four weeks), depending on your needs. Regular reviews help assess how you are progressing and ensure your care is tailored.  

‍

-

‍

Starting infusion therapy may feel daunting, but you are not navigating it alone. Every step of the ReviveMed infusion process in Canberra and Adelaide is designed to be safe, supportive, and clearly explained.

If you have questions about what to expect infusion therapy or would like to discuss a patient referral to our infusion clinic, our team is here to help. Contact Us >

‍

Alternatively, read about Accessing ReviveMed: Referral, Eligibility & Funding or ReviveMed FAQs.

‍