SPRAVATO® (esketamine)
When depression persists, a different approach may make a difference.
SPRAVATO® is the only nasal spray treatment indicated for people who have taken two or more oral antidepressants and still experience symptoms of depression, or TRD.
For some patients, traditional antidepressants simply aren’t enough. SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray that offers a different approach for certain adults with treatment-resistant depression.
SPRAVATO® is self-administered in our office under the supervision of a healthcare provider, followed by a comfortable monitoring period with our clinical team.
How SPRAVATO® Works
SPRAVATO® contains esketamine, a medication that acts on NMDA receptors within the brain’s glutamate system.
This mechanism is different from that of many traditional antidepressants, which commonly target neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine.
What to Expect
Consultation
Your care begins with an evaluation by one of our psychiatric providers. We’ll review your symptoms, medical history, medications, previous depression treatments, and other relevant factors to determine whether SPRAVATO® may be appropriate for you.
Our team can also help determine whether your insurance plan provides coverage and whether prior authorization is required.
Your Treatment Visit
SPRAVATO® is administered as a nasal spray. You self-administer the medication in our office under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
The administration itself takes only a few minutes.
Relax & Recharge
After receiving SPRAVATO®, you'll remain comfortably in our office while our clinical team monitors you.
Because temporary effects such as sedation, dissociation, dizziness, or changes in blood pressure can occur, patients are observed for at least two hours after administration.
Head Home
Once your monitoring period is complete and your healthcare provider determines that you're ready to leave, you may return home.
Unlike TMS, you cannot drive yourself home after SPRAVATO® treatment. You'll need to arrange transportation, and you should not drive or operate machinery until the following day after a restful sleep.
Is SPRAVATO® Right for Me?
SPRAVATO® may be an option for certain adults with depression, including patients who have not experienced adequate improvement with multiple antidepressant treatments.
Whether SPRAVATO® is appropriate depends on your diagnosis, treatment history, medical history, current medications, and other individual factors.
Our psychiatric providers will evaluate your history and discuss the potential benefits and risks with you before recommending treatment.
FAQs
How does SPRAVATO® work?
SPRAVATO® works differently from traditional antidepressants. It targets the brain’s glutamate system through NMDA receptors, offering a different treatment pathway for patients whose depression has not adequately responded to other treatments.
What does treatment look like?
Treatment typically begins with two sessions per week for the first four weeks, followed by once-weekly treatment for the next four weeks. After this initial phase, the frequency of treatment is individualized based on each patient’s response and clinical needs.
How long is each visit?
Patients are monitored for at least two hours after receiving SPRAVATO®. The nasal spray itself is administered at the beginning of the appointment, while the remainder of the visit is spent resting comfortably under the supervision of our clinical team.
Will I need maintenance treatment?
Some patients benefit from continued maintenance treatment after the initial eight-week course. Maintenance may be weekly, every other week, or at another clinically appropriate interval based on your response and your provider’s recommendations.
Will I still take my other medications?
Your medication regimen will be determined by your psychiatric provider based on your diagnosis, treatment plan, and individual circumstances.
Do not stop or change your psychiatric medications unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.
Does insurance cover SPRAVATO®?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for eligible patients, although requirements vary by insurer and individual policy.
Prior authorization and documentation of previous depression treatments may be required. Our team can help you understand your benefits and navigate the authorization process.