Ketamine therapy has become one of the most promising breakthroughs in mental health care, offering relief for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. However, many patients wonder: How is ketamine actually given? Understanding the different ketamine therapy methods helps you make an informed decision about which treatment may work best for you.
Below, our experts from NorTex Psychiatry, Dr. Clayton L. Allison and Brittany Huckaby, PHNP, explain the main delivery options, how they work, and what to expect.
Ketamine Infusion Therapy (IV Ketamine)
Ketamine infusion therapy is the most well-known and medically supervised form of treatment. The medication is delivered through an intravenous (IV) line directly into your bloodstream, allowing precise control over dosage and timing.
Benefits:
- Fast, consistent absorption
- High success rate for treatment-resistant depression
- Fully monitored by medical professionals
Dr. Allison explains: “IV infusions are often the gold standard for ketamine therapy. They allow us to tailor the dose minute by minute, providing both safety and consistency for each patient.”
Intranasal Ketamine Treatment (Nasal Spray)
Intranasal ketamine treatment delivers the medication through the nasal passages, allowing it to absorb into the bloodstream through mucous membranes.
Benefits:
- Quick and easy administration
- Non-invasive and suitable for at-home or in-clinic use
- Often used for ongoing maintenance after IV therapy
Dr. Allison notes: “Nasal sprays can be a great bridge between clinical infusions, offering flexibility for patients who need sustained symptom management.”
Oral Ketamine Tablets
Oral ketamine tablets are another convenient option, often used for at-home treatment under medical guidance. The medication is swallowed and absorbed through the digestive system.
Benefits:
- Easy self-administration
- Lower cost per dose
- May support long-term mood stabilization
Drawbacks: - Slower absorption and less predictable results than IV
Brittany Huckaby, PHNP, explains: “Oral ketamine can be a good option for maintenance once patients are stable, but it’s important to follow a structured plan supervised by your provider.”
Sublingual Ketamine Therapy
In sublingual ketamine therapy, the medication dissolves under the tongue for absorption through oral tissues.
Benefits:
- Faster absorption than oral tablets
- Non-invasive and convenient for at-home use
- Helpful for mild symptoms or maintenance therapy
Dr. Allison adds: “Sublingual ketamine gives patients autonomy while maintaining medical oversight. It’s a flexible tool in our treatment plan.”
Intramuscular (IM) Ketamine Injection
IM ketamine injections are given directly into the muscle, offering rapid onset of effects—similar to IV infusion but without the need for an IV line.
Benefits:
- Quick relief of symptoms
- Suitable when IV access is difficult
- Effective for both depression and acute anxiety episodes
Drawbacks: - Less control over dosage once injected
Brittany shares: “IM ketamine injections can be highly effective for specific patients, especially when rapid results are needed in a controlled medical setting.”
How to Choose the Best Ketamine Delivery Method
Your ideal ketamine treatment option depends on your condition, treatment goals, and how your body responds. Factors to consider include:
- Severity of symptoms: IV and IM are often used for rapid relief.
- Maintenance needs: Intranasal, oral, or sublingual can help sustain benefits over time.
- Lifestyle and accessibility: Some prefer the convenience of at-home methods; others benefit from structured in-clinic therapy.
Dr. Allison emphasizes: “The most effective approach is personalized. We match the method to the individual’s needs, ensuring both safety and meaningful progress.”
Expert-Guided Care at NorTex Psychiatry
At NorTex Psychiatry, every patient receives a comprehensive assessment before beginning therapy. Our team develops a tailored plan that may combine ketamine infusion therapy, intranasal treatment, or sublingual ketamine therapy depending on your medical history and comfort level.
Brittany Huckaby, PHNP, says, “Our goal is to help patients find real, lasting relief using the safest and most effective ketamine delivery method for their unique needs.”
Ready to explore your options?
If you’re considering ketamine therapy and want to learn which method is right for you, schedule a ketamine therapy consultation with NorTex Psychiatry today. Our clinics in Allen, McKinney, Frisco, and Dallas are here to guide you every step of the way toward better mental health and wellness.
More Information:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470357
https://www.webmd.com/depression/features/what-does-ketamine-do-your-brain
