Spravato Depression Treatment

Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray used to treat certain forms of depression in adults. It works differently from traditional antidepressants by targeting NMDA receptors in the brain, which are involved in glutamate signaling. Spravato may help improve depressive symptoms in eligible patients with treatment-resistant depression.

Yes. Spravato (esketamine) is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression in adults, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with an oral antidepressant. It is also approved for depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder and acute suicidal ideation or behavior, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant.

Spravato may be appropriate for adults diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression or adults with major depressive disorder experiencing depressive symptoms alongside acute suicidal ideation or behavior. Eligibility depends on the patient's diagnosis, medical history, current medications, and clinical assessment. A qualified psychiatric provider must determine whether treatment is appropriate.

Treatment-resistant depression generally refers to depression that has not improved adequately after trying appropriate antidepressant treatments. Spravato offers another treatment option by targeting a different brain signaling system than many traditional antidepressants. It may help eligible adults who have not experienced sufficient relief from conventional treatments.

Traditional antidepressants commonly target neurotransmitter systems such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Spravato works through the glutamate system by blocking NMDA receptors. Because it works differently, it may be an option for certain patients who have not responded adequately to traditional antidepressants.

Spravato contains esketamine, a specific form of ketamine, and is FDA-approved for certain depression indications. It is administered as a nasal spray under healthcare supervision through a restricted safety program. IV ketamine infusion for psychiatric conditions is generally an off-label treatment. The medications, administration methods, regulatory approvals, and treatment protocols are different.

Some patients experience improvements in depressive symptoms within hours or days of beginning treatment, although responses vary. Not everyone responds immediately, and some patients may require additional treatment sessions. A psychiatric provider monitors progress to determine whether treatment is providing meaningful benefits.

Patients administer Spravato nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare professional. After administration, they must remain at the healthcare facility for at least two hours of monitoring. The provider assesses their condition before determining whether they are ready to leave.

Spravato treatment generally begins with an induction phase involving more frequent sessions, followed by a maintenance schedule based on the patient's response and clinical needs. The recommended schedule varies depending on the diagnosis and treatment phase. Your psychiatric provider will determine the appropriate frequency.

Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, sedation, dissociation, headache, increased blood pressure, and a feeling of being disconnected from one's surroundings. Side effects vary among patients. Medical supervision and post-treatment monitoring are important to help manage potential reactions.

Dissociation can involve feeling disconnected from your thoughts, emotions, body, or surroundings. Some patients may experience changes in their perception of time and space. These effects are known potential reactions to Spravato and are monitored by healthcare professionals during treatment.

No. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful night's sleep following Spravato administration. Patients should arrange transportation home after every treatment session.

Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment with important safety requirements. It can cause sedation, dissociation, respiratory depression, and increases in blood pressure. For this reason, it is available through a restricted Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program, and patients must be monitored for at least two hours after administration.

It depends on the reason Spravato is prescribed. For treatment-resistant depression in adults, the FDA-approved indication allows Spravato to be used either alone or with an oral antidepressant. For depressive symptoms associated with major depressive disorder and acute suicidal ideation or behavior, it must be used with an oral antidepressant. Your provider will determine the appropriate treatment plan.

Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment option for adults with treatment-resistant depression and certain depressive symptoms associated with acute suicidal ideation or behavior. It may be considered when traditional treatments have not provided sufficient relief. However, Spravato has not been demonstrated to prevent suicide or independently reduce suicidal behavior, and it does not replace hospitalization when clinically necessary.

No. Spravato contains esketamine, which is one of the two mirror-image forms of ketamine. Although they are related medications, Spravato is a standardized FDA-approved nasal spray with specific approved indications and administration requirements. Regular ketamine infusion for depression is generally an off-label psychiatric treatment.

Many insurance plans may cover Spravato treatment for eligible patients, subject to medical necessity criteria, prior authorization, and individual plan requirements. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary. Lighthouse Psychiatry works with various insurance providers and can help patients review their benefits and determine potential coverage.

The cost depends on insurance coverage, medication benefits, treatment frequency, and individual out-of-pocket expenses. Patients with qualifying insurance may have some or most treatment costs covered. Contact Lighthouse Psychiatry to discuss insurance verification and available payment options before beginning treatment.

Lighthouse Psychiatry offers Spravato treatment at its Arizona locations, including Gilbert and Scottsdale. Patients interested in esketamine nasal spray treatment can contact the clinic to schedule a psychiatric evaluation and discuss eligibility, insurance coverage, and the treatment process.

A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is the first step in determining whether Spravato is an appropriate treatment option. Your provider will review your depression history, previous antidepressant treatments, medical conditions, and current medications. Lighthouse Psychiatry can help you understand your options and determine whether Spravato treatment may be suitable for your needs.