ReviveMed: Infusion Therapy FAQs for Veterans, ADF & First Responders

ReviveMed Infusion therapy is a medical treatment where medication is delivered in hospital,  intravenously (through an IV line) under clinical supervision. At ReviveMed, infusion therapy is used to support treatment-resistant mental health conditions including depression, PTSD, suicidality, and anxiety. The treatment works differently than conventional medications, targeting neural pathways that may help improve mood, reduce symptoms, and restore functioning when other approaches haven't been effective.

Each infusion session typically lasts 40-60 minutes. You'll remain comfortably seated, or lying down, in a monitored treatment room throughout the session, with clinical staff present to ensure your safety and comfort. Most people spend approximately 2-3hrs at the hospital per session when including preparation and post-treatment observation time.

Response timelines vary between individuals. Some people report symptom improvement within hours or days of their first session, while others notice gradual changes over the course of multiple treatments. Research suggests that rapid-acting effects are possible, particularly for depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation, though sustained benefits typically develop across a treatment series. Your ReviveMed team monitors your progress and adjusts the treatment plan accordingly.

Initial treatment typically involves 6 infusion sessions over 2-weeks, though this varies based on individual response and clinical recommendation. Following the initial series, maintenance infusions may be scheduled monthly or as needed to sustain symptom relief. Treatment plans are personalised, some individuals require more frequent sessions initially, while others maintain benefits with less frequent maintenance treatments.

Yes, infusion therapy can support treatment-resistant PTSD, particularly when conventional therapies haven't provided adequate relief. Clinical evidence suggests it may help reduce intrusive memories, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness associated with PTSD. Treatment is most effective when integrated with trauma-focused psychological therapy. ReviveMed's clinicians have specific experience supporting veterans and first responders with service-related PTSD.

Infusion therapy may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions including uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, severe liver impairment, or active substance use disorders. Pregnancy, certain psychiatric conditions, and some medication combinations may also affect eligibility. A comprehensive psychiatric and medical assessment determines whether infusion therapy is safe and appropriate for your specific circumstances.

When delivered in a medically supervised setting by qualified professionals, infusion therapy is considered safe for treatment-resistant depression. Every session at ReviveMed is delivered in a hospital environment monitored by experienced clinical staff who track vital signs, manage any side effects, and ensure patient safety throughout. The treatment has been studied extensively in clinical research, with established safety protocols. Your psychiatrist reviews your medical history and current health status to confirm safety before treatment begins.

Common side effects during treatment include mild dissociation (feeling detached or dreamlike), temporary increases in blood pressure and heart rate, nausea, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects typically resolve within 1-2 hours after the infusion ends. Most people tolerate the treatment well, and side effects can be managed through dosage adjustment or supportive medications. Serious side effects are rare when treatment is properly supervised.

When administered in controlled medical settings at therapeutic doses, the risk of addiction is considered low. ReviveMed follows strict clinical protocols including careful patient selection, supervised administration, and regular monitoring to minimise any potential for misuse. Patients with substance use disorders are carefully assessed for suitability, and treatment plans include safeguards to ensure responsible use.

No, you cannot drive immediately after an infusion session. The treatment can affect coordination, judgment, and reaction time for several hours. You must arrange for someone to drive you home after each session. Most people can resume normal activities including driving the following day, though you should follow your clinician's specific guidance based on how you respond to treatment.

Long-term safety data continues to develop as infusion therapy for mental health is a relatively newer treatment approach. Current research suggests that repeated treatments over months to years appear safe when properly monitored, with no significant long-term adverse effects reported in most studies. ReviveMed maintains ongoing psychiatric oversight throughout your treatment, with regular health monitoring to ensure continued safety.

Yes, you must have someone available to drive you home after each session. You should not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for at least 24 hours following treatment. Having a support person also provides practical and emotional support during the early stages of treatment when you're adjusting to the therapy's effects.

Yes, veterans are a priority population for ReviveMed.

No, infusion therapy doesn't work for everyone, and response rates vary. Some people respond dramatically, others experience modest benefits, and some may not respond at all. Treatment effectiveness is monitored closely, and alternative approaches are considered if infusion therapy isn't providing adequate benefit.

Starting the referral process involves three steps: (1) Book an appointment with your GP and psychiatrist to discuss infusion therapy and obtain your referral letters, (2) Submit your referral and clinical documentation to Zed3, (3) Our team reviews your eligibility and schedules an initial medical assessment. For detailed guidance, visit our Referral & Access page.

Depending on your policy level and fund, private health insurance may provide coverage or rebates for psychiatric services and some of the anaesthetic services involved with the infusion. Private health insurance will not cover the hospital admission or ReviveMed program fee. Zed3 can provide the necessary documentation for insurance claims.