What is Spravato?

Spravato is a prescription nasal spray designed to help people who have depression that hasn’t improved with other treatments. It contains esketamine, a medication that works differently from traditional antidepressants by affecting certain brain chemicals linked to mood and emotions. Unlike standard antidepressants, which can take weeks to show results, Spravato may work more quickly to relieve symptoms.

How does Spravato compare to other treatments?

Spravato works faster than most traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to show improvement. Many people start feeling better within hours or days of taking Spravato. Research has shown that when used alongside a standard antidepressant, it can be more effective for people who have not responded to other treatments.
However, Spravato is not the first option for treating depression. Many people find relief with talk therapy, lifestyle changes, or common antidepressants like SSRIs (e.g., Prozac, Zoloft) and SNRIs (e.g., Effexor, Cymbalta). Spravato is intended for those who haven’t found success with these options.

What to Expect from Spravato Treatment

Many people start noticing improvement within hours or days after starting Spravato. The expected benefits include:

• Rapid relief from depressive symptoms – Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take weeks to work, Spravato may help lift mood much faster.
• Reduced suicidal thoughts – For individuals experiencing severe depression with suicidal thoughts, Spravato has been shown to significantly decrease these feelings.
• Improved daily functioning – Many patients report feeling more engaged in daily activities, better able to concentrate, and having a more positive outlook on life.
• Long-term stability – When combined with an oral antidepressant and continued under medical supervision, Spravato may help maintain improvement and prevent relapse.

However, individual responses vary. Some people may need a longer treatment period or adjustments in their treatment plan to experience full benefits.

Spravato may be an option if:

• You have tried at least two other antidepressant medications and haven’t experienced significant improvement.
• You have been diagnosed with major depression and are struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
• Your doctor believes this treatment could be helpful based on your medical history.

Some people may not be eligible for Spravato, including those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or a history of substance use issues. Your healthcare provider will review your medical background to determine if it’s a good fit for you.

What Happens During Treatment?

1. Consultation – Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and treatment history to decide if Spravato is right for you.
2. Receiving the Medication – Spravato is given as a nasal spray in a doctor’s office or clinic. It is not something you can take at home.
3. Monitoring Period – After taking the medication, you will stay at the clinic for about two hours. This is to ensure your safety and to monitor for side effects, such as dizziness, feeling disconnected from reality, or changes in blood pressure.
4. Treatment Schedule – At first, Spravato is usually taken twice a week. After the first month, the frequency may decrease based on how well it is working for you.
5. After the Visit – Because Spravato can cause drowsiness or confusion, you will need someone to drive you home, and you should avoid activities that require full alertness for the rest of the day.