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If you have SPRAVATO® questions, you are not alone. Many people exploring treatment-resistant depression want to understand this medication before taking the next step. SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray that works differently from traditional antidepressants, offering a new path forward for those who have not responded to other treatments.
Learning more about what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared as you consider this option. Read our SPRAVATO® FAQs and contact Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center.
SPRAVATO® is a nasal spray containing esketamine, a ketamine-derived compound that acts on NMDA receptors to interrupt the cycle of treatment-resistant depression. Unlike conventional antidepressants that affect serotonin or dopamine, SPRAVATO® works on the glutamate system to rapidly restore synaptic connections that depression may have disrupted.
This distinct mechanism is why it can produce results in people who have not found relief through other medications.
SPRAVATO® is designed for adults diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression who have tried at least two different oral antidepressants without sufficient improvement. It has also received FDA approval for adults living with major depressive disorder who are dealing with active suicidal thoughts or urges.
A thorough evaluation with your provider will determine whether SPRAVATO® therapy aligns with your diagnosis and treatment history.
SPRAVATO® is self-administered as a nasal spray under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider in a certified clinical setting. Each SPRAVATO® session typically involves two to three sprays across both nostrils. You will remain at the office for at least two hours afterward for monitoring.
Because of its potential effects on perception and sedation, you will not be able to drive yourself home following a session.
The standard SPRAVATO® protocol begins with an induction phase of twice-weekly sessions for the first four weeks. This is followed by a maintenance phase with weekly sessions for one month, then sessions every one to two weeks on an ongoing basis.
Your provider will assess your response throughout the process and adjust the schedule to support your long-term progress.
A wide range of insurance plans, Medicare included, provide coverage for SPRAVATO® when a patient's diagnosis meets the established criteria for treatment-resistant depression. Coverage details vary depending on your specific plan, so it is worth contacting your insurance provider directly to understand your benefits.
Our team can also assist you in navigating the prior authorization process to help make SPRAVATO® as accessible as possible.
SPRAVATO® is not intended to replace your existing antidepressant regimen. It is designed to work alongside an oral antidepressant as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Combining SPRAVATO® with your current medication allows your care team to address both the rapid-onset and long-term aspects of managing treatment-resistant depression.
Your provider will help you determine the right combination and timing for your individual needs.
If you still have SPRAVATO® questions, our team at Shore Clinical TMS & Wellness Center is here to help. A one-on-one consultation gives you the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, your treatment history, and what you can realistically expect from esketamine nasal spray therapy. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the process with the attention and care you deserve.
Reach out to our office today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward meaningful relief.