Spravato for Treatment-Resistant Depression
A breakthrough treatment option for individuals who haven't found relief with traditional antidepressant medications.
What is Spravato?
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray medication used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in adults. It represents a significant advancement in mental health treatment, offering hope to those who have struggled to find relief through traditional antidepressant medications.
Treatment-resistant depression occurs when a person has tried at least two different antidepressant medications at adequate doses for an adequate duration without experiencing adequate improvement in their symptoms. Spravato is specifically approved for adults who have not responded to multiple antidepressant treatments.
How Spravato Works
Spravato works differently than traditional antidepressants. It targets the glutamate system in the brain, specifically the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. This novel mechanism of action helps form new neural connections between brain cells, which can provide rapid relief for some patients.
Unlike traditional antidepressants that typically take weeks to show effects, Spravato can provide improvements sometimes seen within hours or days. This rapid response is particularly beneficial for individuals with severe depression who need immediate relief.
Spravato must be administered in a certified healthcare setting under the supervision of a healthcare provider, ensuring both safety and optimal treatment outcomes. Patients are monitored for at least 2 hours after each dose to observe any potential side effects.
Who Can Benefit?
Spravato is specifically approved for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), meaning you have tried at least two different antidepressant medications at adequate doses for an adequate duration without experiencing adequate improvement in your symptoms.
It is also approved for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have suicidal thoughts or behaviors. If you've been struggling with depression despite trying multiple treatment approaches, Spravato may be an option worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
Treatment Schedule
Induction Phase (Weeks 1-4)
During the first month, treatment is given twice weekly. Each session involves:
- Nasal spray administration under medical supervision
- 2-hour monitoring period after each dose
- Assessment of response and side effects
- Must be used in combination with an oral antidepressant
Maintenance Phase (Weeks 5-8)
During the next four weeks, treatment frequency is adjusted to once weekly:
- Continued weekly sessions as needed
- Ongoing monitoring and assessment
- Continued combination with oral antidepressant
- Evaluation of treatment response
Long-term Maintenance
After the initial 8 weeks, treatment frequency may be adjusted based on your response:
- Weekly or bi-weekly sessions as needed
- Continued monitoring and assessment
- Ongoing combination with oral antidepressant
- Regular follow-up care
Learn More About Spravato
Watch this informative video to learn more about Spravato treatment and how it can help with treatment-resistant depression.
Important Information & Safety
Administration & Monitoring
- Spravato must be administered in a certified healthcare setting only
- Patients are monitored for at least 2 hours after each dose
- Treatment is given twice weekly during the first month (induction phase)
- Must be used in combination with an oral antidepressant
- Cannot be taken home - must be administered at the clinic
Side Effects & Precautions
- Common side effects include: dissociation, dizziness, nausea, sedation, and anxiety
- May cause temporary increase in blood pressure
- Do NOT drive or operate machinery on treatment days
- Arrange transportation home after each treatment session
- Not suitable for everyone - discuss with your provider
What to Expect During Treatment
During each treatment session, you will self-administer the nasal spray under medical supervision. After administration, you will be monitored for at least 2 hours. Some patients may experience temporary dissociation (feeling disconnected from reality), dizziness, or sedation. These effects are typically temporary and resolve within the monitoring period. It is essential to have someone drive you home after treatment, as you should not drive or operate heavy machinery on treatment days.
Insurance Coverage: Spravato is covered by most insurance plans for qualifying patients with treatment-resistant depression. Our team can help you verify your coverage and navigate the insurance process.
Ready to Learn More About Spravato?
If you've been struggling with treatment-resistant depression, Spravato may be an option for you. Contact us to schedule a consultation and see if Spravato treatment is right for you.
