Spravato Therapy is an FDA-approved treatment that uses Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray to treat adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and certain adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) experiencing acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Spravato is administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider as part of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan.
Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take several weeks to produce noticeable effects, Spravato works differently in the brain and may help some individuals experience symptom improvement more rapidly.
Spravato contains esketamine, a medication derived from ketamine. It works by targeting glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, learning, and brain connectivity. By affecting these pathways, Spravato may help restore neural connections that can be disrupted in depression.
Spravato therapy is administered in a certified medical office or clinic under direct medical supervision. During treatment:
The frequency and duration of treatment vary depending on the individual’s diagnosis, response to therapy, and treatment plan.
Spravato therapy may be appropriate for individuals who:
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is necessary to determine whether Spravato therapy is appropriate.
Potential benefits of Spravato therapy include:
Individual treatment outcomes vary, and not every patient will respond in the same way.
Spravato therapy is FDA-approved and is administered only in certified healthcare settings under the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program. Common side effects may include:
Because sedation and dissociation can occur, patients are monitored after each treatment session and should not drive or operate machinery until the following day after a restful night’s sleep.
At Pinnacle Behavioral Healthcare, we provide comprehensive evaluations to determine whether Spravato Therapy is appropriate for each patient’s unique needs. Our experienced providers develop individualized treatment plans that may also include Medication Management, Individual Psychotherapy, and Pinnacle TMS as part of a comprehensive approach to mental wellness.
If traditional depression treatments have not provided adequate relief, schedule a consultation with our team to discuss whether Spravato therapy may be right for you.
Spravato is FDA-approved for adults with treatment-resistant depression and certain adults with Major Depressive Disorder experiencing acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Spravato works differently than traditional antidepressants by targeting glutamate pathways in the brain rather than primarily affecting serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine.
Treatment frequency varies depending on the stage of therapy and individual response. Your provider will create a personalized treatment schedule based on your needs.
No. Because Spravato may cause sedation and dissociation, patients should arrange transportation home after treatment and avoid driving until the next day following a restful night’s sleep.
Many insurance providers offer coverage for eligible patients receiving Spravato therapy, particularly those diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression. Coverage requirements vary by insurance plan.
