HBOT vs. Ozone Therapy
Both are marketed for a wide range of conditions, but they are very different in evidence and regulation. Here's the honest comparison.
| Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) | Ozone therapy | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | 100% oxygen breathed under pressure in a chamber | Ozone gas administered via blood, injection, or insufflation |
| FDA status | 14 recognized indications; established medicine | No FDA-approved medical use; the FDA states ozone is toxic with no proven medical benefit |
| Evidence base | Decades of trials for core indications (grade A–B) | Mostly small or low-quality studies; not accepted for its marketed uses |
| Insurance | Covered for recognized indications | Not covered; always self-pay |
| Main risks | Ear barotrauma (common, minor); rare O₂ toxicity | Embolism/injury risk depending on route; not standardized |
Our honest take
For the conditions HBOT is recognized for, it is established, evidence-backed medicine. Ozone therapy lacks that footing and is not FDA-accepted for medical treatment. Be cautious of clinics that blur the two.
Educational comparison. Not medical advice. Talk to a qualified physician about your situation. · View source