How It’s Given: Administered directly into the bloodstream via an IV drip.

Absorption: Fastest method, reaching peak levels quickly, offering rapid relief.

Onset of Effects: Relief often felt within 1–3 hours after the session.

Dosage Control: High precision, allowing careful adjustment during treatment.

Sessions: Typically 40 minutes to an hour, with multiple sessions over weeks.

Benefits: Known for being highly effective for treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.

Setting: Requires a clinical setting under direct medical supervision.

Cost: Generally higher due to the specialized equipment and supervision.

How It’s Given: Injected into a muscle (usually the arm or thigh).

Absorption: Slower than IV but still rapid. Peaks within 30–45 minutes.

Onset of Effects: Relief typically felt within 30 minutes to an hour.

Dosage Control: Less precise than IV, but generally effective.

Sessions: Usually takes less time to administer than IV, but similar session frequency.

Benefits: More convenient than IV, requires less equipment, and still effective for depression and PTSD.

Setting: Administered in a medical setting, though less complex than IV.

Cost: Lower than IV due to fewer medical resources required.

How It’s Given: Administered via nasal spray under medical supervision.

Absorption: Absorbed through the nasal tissues; slower than IV or IM.

Onset of Effects: Relief typically felt within 2–4 hours.

Dosage Control: Pre-set dose in the nasal spray, less flexible than IV or IM.

Sessions: Typically twice a week, with each session taking about 2 hours.

Benefits: Non-invasive, convenient, FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression.

Setting: Must be administered in a certified clinic, but no need for IV equipment.

Cost: Can be higher due to branded medication and clinical setting requirements. Some insurance plans cover it.