Ozone therapy is a medical method that uses a mixture of ozone and oxygen to support treatment of various conditions. It enhances oxygen delivery to tissues, boosts circulation, and stimulates the immune system.
The procedure is performed by administering ozone through different routes, such as intravenous infusion, local injection, or autohemotherapy. The method chosen depends on the disease being treated and patient-specific factors.
Therapeutic benefits of ozone therapy include improved wound healing, reduction of chronic pain, and supportive effects in circulatory disorders. It also contributes to detoxification and strengthens the body’s resistance against infections.
Ozone therapy is considered a complementary treatment and is applied alongside conventional medical approaches. When performed under medical supervision, it is safe, minimally invasive, and well tolerated by patients.
| Treatment Type | Ozone Therapy |
| Areas of Use | Chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, joint pain, immune system enhancement, infection treatment, skin problems. |
| Application Methods | Rectal ozone insufflation, ozone bagging, ozone sauna, autohemotherapy (ozonating and reinfusing blood), application by injection. |
| Duration of Treatment | The duration of each session is generally 20-30 minutes, with a total treatment ranging from 6 to 12 sessions. |
| Mechanism of Action | Increases cellular oxygenation, accelerates free radical clearance, and provides anti-inflammatory effects by stimulating the immune system. |
| Side Effects | Mild headache, fatigue, pain or temporary redness at the injection site may rarely occur as side effects. |
| Contraindications | Pregnancy, blood clotting disorders, thyroid disorders, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, ozone allergy. |
| Points to Consider | Avoid alcohol consumption before treatment and it is recommended to perform under doctor supervision. |
| Practitioners | Physiotherapists, alternative medicine specialists, and healthcare professionals with relevant training. |
| Possible Benefits | Pain management, improved blood circulation, increased energy levels, immune support. |
Prof. Dr. Özgür KILIÇKESMEZ Prof. Dr. Kılıçkesmez holds the Turkish Radiology Competency Certificate, the Turkish Interventional Radiology Competency Certificate, Stroke Treatment Certification, and the European Board of Interventional Radiology (EBIR). In his academic career, he won the Siemens Radiology First Prize in 2008.
Interventional Radiology / Interventional Neuroradiology
What is Ozone Therapy and How Does It Work?
Ozone therapy works by eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. This treatment method uses the oxidation process to destroy the cell walls of these pathogens. In this way, it prevents the proliferation of microorganisms and accelerates the body’s healing process. At the same time, it increases oxygen levels in the body and helps red blood cells transport oxygen more efficiently. This feature is especially beneficial for chronic wounds that require tissue repair.
Additionally, ozone therapy stimulates the immune system and encourages the body to defend against infections. This defense mechanism supports the production of immune cells such as T-cells and natural killer cells. As a result, the immune response is strengthened, and the body’s ability to fight infections is increased. Furthermore, ozone therapy triggers antioxidant defenses in the body and helps reduce oxidative stress. Reducing oxidative stress alleviates inflammation and supports overall well-being.
Areas of Use for Ozone Therapy:
- Infections: Supports the fight against bacterial and viral infections.
- Chronic Wounds and Ulcers: Accelerates tissue repair and promotes healing.
- Musculoskeletal Problems: Supports the healing process in muscle pain and joint disorders.
- Chronic Inflammatory Diseases: Reduces inflammation and provides benefits in long-term illnesses.
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How Is Ozone Therapy Applied?
Ozone therapy can be customized according to the desired outcomes by applying it in various ways. Internal applications provide systemic effects, while external methods are effective in specific areas. Here are the methods of administering ozone therapy:
- Major Autohemotherapy (MAH): In this method, blood taken from the patient is mixed with controlled concentrations of ozone and then reinfused into the body. Thus, immune responses are regulated, circulation is improved, and the fight against inflammation is supported.
- Rectal Insufflation: Ozone gas administered via the rectum is absorbed through the intestinal wall and enters the bloodstream, providing systemic effects. It is generally used for immune support and detoxification.
- Direct Injection: In musculoskeletal disorders, ozone is injected into tissues or joints at low concentrations. This application reduces inflammation and contributes to pain management.
- Topical Application (Ozone Bagging and Cupping): Ozone is directly applied externally using ozone bags or cupping devices for skin problems or chronic wounds. This method reduces infection risk and accelerates wound healing.
- Vaginal and Auricular Insufflation: In this less common method, ozone gas is administered into the vaginal or ear canal. This technique may help combat infections and aid detoxification.
Which Diseases Can Ozone Therapy Treat?
Viral Diseases: Ozone therapy supports the immune system and helps the body fight viral infections such as herpes simplex, Epstein-Barr virus, and HIV. This therapy increases oxygen utilization in the body, making viruses inactive and improving immune response.
- Chronic Infections: Ozone therapy is used in the treatment of long-lasting infections such as Lyme disease, hepatitis, and chronic fatigue syndrome. The treatment increases tissue oxygen levels, strengthens the body’s natural defenses, and thus makes it harder for infections to spread.
- Circulatory Disorders: Ozone therapy improves blood circulation and benefits conditions such as peripheral artery disease and varicose veins. It helps reduce arterial plaques and may lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Arthritis: With its anti-inflammatory properties, ozone therapy relieves pain in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It improves joint function and reduces inflammation.
- Respiratory Disorders (COPD): In chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD and asthma, ozone therapy improves oxygenation and reduces airway inflammation. Thus, it can alleviate symptoms and support lung function.
- Cancer: Studies show that when used with chemotherapy and radiation, ozone therapy supports the immune system and may inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
What Are the Benefits of Ozone Therapy?
First, it helps deliver more oxygen to tissues by improving oxygenation. This feature is especially valuable for patients with circulatory problems. It also regulates the immune system, helping the body fight infections and reduce inflammation. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, it can particularly alleviate pain and swelling.
- Improved Oxygenation: Ozone therapy increases oxygen uptake at the cellular level and supports energy production.
- Immune Regulation: Activates immune cells and stimulates cytokine production.
- Improved Circulation: Increases the flexibility of red blood cells and improves blood flow.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Reduces inflammation and provides relief in conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Ozone therapy is also used to accelerate wound healing. By increasing blood flow, it supports tissue repair and reduces the risk of infection with its antimicrobial properties. In addition, its pain-relieving effects help improve function, especially in musculoskeletal problems. Finally, in athletes, it accelerates recovery, allowing muscles to recover faster and increases physical performance.
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of Ozone Therapy?
Although ozone therapy has gained popularity, it carries significant risks and side effects. Firstly, due to the toxic nature of ozone, long-term exposure may trigger serious conditions such as COPD. There is also a risk of air embolism during intravenous ozone therapy.
Direct mixing of ozone into the bloodstream can cause vascular blockages, leading to life-threatening complications such as stroke or heart attack. To prevent these situations, it is essential that the therapy is administered by professionals. Various side effects may also occur during ozone therapy; patients may experience nausea, vomiting, headache, and flu-like symptoms. These symptoms are sometimes referred to as the “Herxheimer reaction.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Which patients are eligible for major ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy can be administered to patients with various health problems. These include chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, infected wounds, pressure sores, chronic ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and burns. Additionally, advanced ischemic diseases (such as Buerger’s disease, ischemic heart disease), lumbar and cervical disc herniations, age-related macular degeneration (dry type), vasculitis (Raynaud, Behçet, FMF), infections resistant to antibiotics and chemicals (hepatitis, HIV, herpes, shingles, papillomavirus, candida infections) are among the conditions where ozone therapy is applied. As a support to modern treatments, it can also be used for autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, early-stage Parkinson’s disease), lung diseases (asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis), and skin diseases (psoriasis, atopic dermatitis).
How many sessions does ozone therapy take effect?
The effect of ozone therapy varies depending on the type and severity of the disease and the general health condition of the patient. In general, at least 5-10 sessions are required to observe the effects of the treatment. For example, in some conditions such as skin problems, signs of improvement may be seen after the first few sessions, while in chronic diseases a longer treatment process may be necessary. Therefore, the number of sessions needed for ozone therapy to be effective depends on the individual and the condition being treated.
Who should not receive ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy should not be administered in certain cases. In individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) enzyme deficiency, ozone therapy may increase the risk of hemolytic anemia. It is not recommended in patients with uncontrolled hyperthyroidism due to increased metabolic rate. Ozone therapy should not be administered during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as its safety is not proven. In cases such as bleeding disorders or thrombocytopenia, the treatment is not recommended as it may increase the risk of bleeding. In addition, in individuals with uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, ozone therapy is not recommended. For patients with organ transplants, ozone therapy is not recommended due to its effects on the immune system.
Does ozone therapy cleanse the blood?
Ozone therapy is a method in which ozone gas is administered into the blood, aiming to increase oxygen circulation, stimulate the immune system, and neutralize pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Advocates claim it cleanses the blood and supports overall health. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and more research is needed on its safety and effectiveness. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved ozone therapy for medical use due to concerns about potential toxicity and unproven benefits. Nevertheless, some physicians and patients report positive outcomes, indicating the need for more comprehensive clinical studies.
When do the benefits of ozone therapy appear?
The onset of the effects of ozone therapy depends on the type of treatment applied, the patient’s general health status, and the severity of the condition being treated. In general, a treatment course of 10 sessions, typically twice a week, is recommended. At the end of this period, patients may begin to feel the positive effects of the therapy. However, in some cases, it may take longer for the effects to be seen, and the treatment process should be tailored to the individual.
Is it allowed to take a shower after ozone therapy?
It is generally recommended to wait at least two hours before taking a shower after ozone therapy. This period is important for the residual ozone on the skin to continue exerting its effects. Taking a shower immediately after the treatment may wash away beneficial ozone residues from the skin and reduce the effectiveness of the therapy. In rare cases (in less than 1% of patients), mild redness may occur on the skin after treatment. In such cases, taking a shower may help relieve the redness.
What is the age limit for ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy is generally considered safe for adults; however, more caution is required when used in children. The “Madrid Declaration on Ozone Therapy” provides dosage guidelines for children and emphasizes that especially rectal applications should be performed by experienced healthcare professionals. In Turkey, the Ministry of Health has accepted ozone therapy among complementary medicine practices, but there is no clear regulation regarding the age limit. Therefore, the decision to apply ozone therapy to individuals under 18 should be made considering the patient’s health condition and under the supervision of an experienced doctor in ozone therapy.
Is ozone therapy covered by the state?
The Social Security Institution (SGK) covers ozone therapy under certain conditions. Ozone therapies performed for cosmetic or aesthetic purposes are not covered by SGK. However, ozone therapy applied for health problems such as joint pain, lumbar and cervical hernias, diabetes, viral lung diseases, allergic conditions, hypertension, and fibromyalgia are covered by SGK. Therefore, the purpose of treatment and the type of disease are the main factors determining whether SGK will provide payment.
For which diseases is ozone therapy used?
Ozone therapy is used in conditions such as herniated disc, osteoarthritis, chronic wounds, hepatitis B and C, shingles, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, and Lyme disease. It has been shown to be particularly effective in the treatment of lumbar hernia. For example, in a study involving 600 patients, a success rate of 70.3% was achieved in those who received only ozone therapy, while the rate increased to 78.3% in patients treated with a combination of ozone therapy, corticosteroids, and anesthetics. Ozone nucleolysis has also emerged as a safe, low-cost, and minimally invasive technique in the treatment of herniated discs. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved ozone therapy and warns that inhalation may cause airway irritation and other risks. Therefore, the effectiveness and safety of ozone therapy are still being investigated.
How is ozone administered to the body during the procedure?
Ozone therapy involves administering ozone gas to the body through various methods: Intravenous (IV) Ozone Therapy: Blood is drawn, mixed with ozone, and reinfused into the body via the vein. Rectal Insufflation: Ozone gas is administered into the rectum via a catheter and absorbed through the intestinal walls. Transdermal Application: The body is exposed to ozone through a sauna or steam chamber, allowing absorption through the skin. Intramuscular Injection: An ozone-oxygen mixture is directly injected into the muscle tissue. Ozonated Water or Oil: Ozone is dissolved in water or oil and applied topically or consumed as needed. The method chosen depends on the medical condition to be treated and the healthcare professional’s assessment. For ozone therapy to be safe and effective, it is very important that it is administered by trained professionals.
What are the side effects of ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy, which is an alternative treatment method using ozone gas, is associated with various side effects. Inhalation of ozone can cause serious lung and airway irritation; this can lead to cough, nausea, headache, and in severe cases, chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma or COPD. Intravenous administration of ozone carries a risk of air embolism, which can cause stroke or heart attack. Other side effects include discomfort, cramps, and flu-like symptoms known as the Herxheimer reaction. Some studies indicate a low rate of side effects (0.0007%), but the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns against this treatment due to insufficient evidence regarding its safety and efficacy.
What are the pain-relieving effects of this therapy?
Ozone therapy has shown significant effects in reducing pain in patients with lumbar disc herniation. In one study, 85% of 34 patients experienced pain relief, and 82% achieved satisfactory results. In another study involving 600 patients, the success rate was 70.3% in those who received only ozone therapy, while this rate increased to 78.3% when combined with corticosteroids and anesthetics. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials showed that ozone therapy provided more pain relief at six months, with an odds ratio of 2.66.
How does the quality of life of patients change after ozone therapy?
Ozone therapy has been effective in improving the quality of life of patients with various conditions. In patients experiencing chronic side effects after cancer treatments, ozone therapy has provided significant improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQOL), as measured by the EQ-5D-5L questionnaire, in areas such as mobility, self-care, daily activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression. In patients with venous leg ulcers, local ozone therapy has shown significant improvements in quality of life as assessed by the EQ-5D-5L and SF-36 scales before treatment, after 10 weeks, and after 6 months. In individuals with knee osteoarthritis, ozone therapy provided pain relief, functional improvement, and increased quality of life. In a patient with heart failure, rectal ozone therapy administered alongside conventional treatment significantly increased left ventricular ejection fraction and overall quality of life.
Girişimsel Radyoloji ve Nöroradyoloji Uzmanı Prof. Dr. Özgür Kılıçkesmez, 1997 yılında Cerrahpaşa Tıp Fakültesi’nden mezun oldu. Uzmanlık eğitimini İstanbul Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi’nde tamamladı. Londra’da girişimsel radyoloji ve onkoloji alanında eğitim aldı. İstanbul Çam ve Sakura Şehir Hastanesi’nde girişimsel radyoloji bölümünü kurdu ve 2020 yılında profesör oldu. Çok sayıda uluslararası ödül ve sertifikaya sahip olan Kılıçkesmez’in 150’den fazla bilimsel yayını bulunmakta ve 1500’den fazla atıf almıştır. Halen Medicana Ataköy Hastanesi’nde görev yapmaktadır.
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