Pre-session dosing behavior instructions

The manuals converge on the need for clear pre-session communication that standardises conditions and reduces preventable risk before dosing. Across the extracts, staff or therapists review behavioural requirements in advance, confirm that participants understand them, and reinforce adherence to session rules and safety expectations. Common themes include restrictions on food, drink, substances, and certain medications, along with reminders about what to do if instructions are not followed. The sources also align on the importance of safety-related conduct around the dosing day itself. They include staying on site or under staff supervision, following day-of-session precautions, and observing post-dose limits such as transport or driving restrictions. Several manuals also frame pre-session instruction as part of broader psychoeducation, linking it to abstinence agreements, medication continuity, and crisis contact procedures. The manuals differ in the specific content and timing of the restrictions. Ketamine guidance emphasises fasting for at least 4 hours and notes possible cancellation and fees if instructions are not followed, while the KARE protocol focuses on abstinence windows, caffeine limits, and continuity of prescribed or routine mental health treatments.