Easy Guide to Ketamine Therapy Treatment Types

At The Ketamine Channel, we understand that exploring ketamine therapy for the first time can feel like a big step. With several different ways to receive treatment—IV infusions, injections, nasal sprays, lozenges—it’s helpful to understand how each one works, what the experience may be like, and how to navigate your options with support.

Each method has different features and may be more suitable depending on your needs, your provider’s recommendations, and the type of support structure you feel most comfortable with. In this guide, we’ve outlined the most common ketamine therapy types, with insights to help you ask the right questions and feel more prepared for a collaborative treatment conversation.

IV Ketamine Infusions

A Controlled, Clinical Approach

Intravenous (IV) ketamine is delivered through a drip directly into the bloodstream. This option is typically administered in a medical setting, where licensed providers can monitor your experience and make real-time decisions around care and dosage.

Many individuals explore IV ketamine with provider support when other treatments for their conditions haven’t helped, or when there’s a need for a structured, closely monitored approach. Session length and frequency may vary depending on the clinic and individual circumstances, but a typical series may involve a "loading dose" with several infusions over a few weeks, followed by periodic maintenance if needed.

This form of therapy may involve dissociative or dream-like sensations during sessions. Some patients find the effects noticeable within hours or days, though every experience is unique.

Intramuscular (IM) Ketamine Injections

A Simple In-Clinic Option

IM ketamine involves a single injection into a large muscle, such as the thigh or shoulder. It’s generally quicker to administer than an IV infusion and may be offered in clinics where simpler, more accessible setups are preferred.

The effects typically begin within minutes and can last for several hours. While the dosage is fixed prior to the injection (rather than adjustable in real time), IM therapy is still delivered under clinical supervision. Some individuals appreciate the shorter visit time and lower cost associated with this format.

Your provider can help determine whether this approach aligns with your treatment goals and safety preferences.

Intranasal Spravato® (Esketamine)

An FDA-Approved Option for Depression

Spravato® (esketamine) is the only ketamine-based medication currently approved by the FDA for certain forms of depression, including treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and depression with suicidal thoughts. It’s offered in specific certified clinics under medical supervision.

Patients self-administer Spravato through a nasal spray while being monitored by a healthcare provider. Because it follows a regulated dosing schedule and may be eligible for insurance reimbursement, some individuals explore this route when looking for a structured treatment plan.

Spravato is not intended for use outside a medical setting, and your care team will provide guidance on how to prepare for each session and what to expect during the observation period.

Oral Ketamine (Lozenges or Troches)

An Option for Maintenance and Ongoing Support

Some providers offer sublingual (under-the-tongue) ketamine lozenges, often called troches, as part of a maintenance plan following in-clinic treatment. In some cases, they may also be prescribed for at-home use with guidance and approval from a qualified clinician.

This format is generally slower-acting, with effects that begin within 20 to 40 minutes and last a few hours. Dosage may vary between individuals due to differences in absorption.

Lozenges are sometimes considered for individuals managing ongoing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or PTSD who are looking for a lower-cost, lower-intensity option as part of an overall care plan. It’s important that oral ketamine is used responsibly under medical supervision, even if taken at home.

Comparing Ketamine Therapy Types: Which One Is Right for You?

Finding the right ketamine therapy type is a collaborative process. It’s not about what works for “everyone”—it’s about what feels manageable, appropriate, and supportive for you.

Some people feel more comfortable with higher dose IV infusions, where providers closely monitor the entire experience and can make adjustments as needed. Others prefer IM injections, which may involve shorter appointments and lower costs while still offering a guided clinical environment.

Spravato® may be a fit for those looking for an in-office treatment with FDA approval and a clear protocol, especially if they’re navigating insurance.

Meanwhile, lozenges and nasal ketamine can be prescribed and taken at home. In this way they offer more flexibility in terms of setting and frequency, and may be used to support longer-term mental health goals when prescribed appropriately.

Your provider can help you explore the pros and limitations of each method—there’s no pressure to decide right away. It’s okay to ask questions, take your time, and reflect on what feels safe and supportive.

Building a Treatment Plan with Support

Many clinics now offer additional support tools to help patients reflect, integrate, and build confidence between sessions. These may include:

• Guided visualizations focused on helping restore a balanced mindset can assist and ease anxiety or support reflection
• Journaling prompts or emotional check-in tools to help track thoughts, mood or insight
• Group therapy or coaching sessions alongside medical treatment

These supportive tools aren’t replacements for individual counseling, but they can help bridge the gap between clinical sessions and everyday life. You don’t have to go through this alone—healing is a process, and support matters.

Exploring Your Ketamine Therapy Options

Ketamine therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. Your mental and physical health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and personal preferences all play a role in shaping the right plan for you.

We encourage you to speak with a qualified, experienced provider who understands your goals and can explain the different options available. Ask about support between sessions, what integration looks like, and how you can feel safe and empowered throughout the process.

By learning more about each type of ketamine therapy—and approaching your care with curiosity and support—you can begin to build a plan that feels grounded, compassionate, and tailored to your needs.

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