Spravato® is a prescription nasal spray form of esketamine

A medication related to ketamine that works on the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a role in mood, learning, and neural connections.

Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin or norepinephrine, Spravato works through a different biological pathway that may help the brain form new neural connections associated with improved mood.

Key points about Spravato:

• FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression
• Administered in a medical office setting
• Used alone or together with an oral antidepressant
• Requires monitoring for about two hours after treatment

Many patients begin noticing improvement within several weeks of treatment.

Our clinic is a REMS-certified treatment center, meaning Spravato can be safely administered and monitored in our office under the supervision of trained clinicians.

Spravato may be considered for adults who:

• Have major depressive disorder that has not improved after trying at least two antidepressant medications
• Continue to experience significant depressive symptoms despite treatment
• Are medically appropriate for supervised treatment in a clinical setting

A full psychiatric evaluation is needed to determine whether Spravato is the right option.

Spravato may not be appropriate for those:

• Individuals with poorly controlled high blood pressure, heart issues, or certain lung conditions
• Those with a history of substance misuse
• Those who maybe sensitive to esketamine or similar medications

Your first step is a Spravato consultation appointment with one of our psychiatric clinicians.

During this visit we will:

• Review your history of depression and prior treatments
• Discuss symptoms and treatment goals
• Review medical history and medications
• Determine whether Spravato may be appropriate
• Review insurance coverage and authorization requirements
• Discuss the treatment process and monitoring requirements

Some patients may require additional screening tests before starting treatment.

If Spravato is a good fit for your treatment plan, we will begin the insurance authorization process and schedule your first treatment session.

Spravato treatments take place in our clinic under medical supervision.

During each treatment session:

• The medication is administered as a nasal spray
• Patients relax in a comfortable monitoring room
• Clinical staff monitor blood pressure, symptoms, and safety.

Most patients spend about two hours in the clinic after each treatment for observation.

Some patients experience temporary effects such as:

• Feeling relaxed or disconnected
• Mild dizziness
• Nausea
• Sleepiness

These typically resolve before leaving the clinic.

Because Spravato can temporarily affect alertness and coordination, there are a few important things to plan for.

Patients should:

• Arrange a ride home after each treatment (driving is not permitted the same day)
• Plan to spend about 2–2.5 hours at the clinic
• Avoid alcohol or sedating medications unless discussed with your clinician
• Bring something relaxing such as music, headphones, or a book

Many patients find the treatment sessions to be quiet, restorative time focused on recovery.

If you or a loved one has been struggling with depression that has not improved with traditional treatments, Spravato may be worth exploring.

A consultation allows us to review your history and determine whether this treatment may be helpful.

Schedule a consultation:
📞 630-325-8893

Or request an appointment online.