How Quickly Does SPRAVATO® Start Working? A Timeline for Patients

Many who are exploring SPRAVATO® medication are doing so for two reasons:

• They’ve tried multiple conventional antidepressants without success
• They’re looking for fast-acting relief from treatment-resistant depression and anxiety

While some patients do report noticeable changes within hours or days of their first dose, it is important to maintain realistic expectations about SPRAVATO® medication. That’s exactly why we’re writing this blog: to help you understand the typical SPRAVATO® treatment schedule and decide whether it is right for you.

Understanding the SPRAVATO® Treatment Schedule

Unlike ketamine infusions administered through an IV, SPRAVATO® medication is delivered via a nasal spray. Generally, treatment begins with two weekly sessions during the first month, followed by a tapering SPRAVATO® dosing schedule tailored to your needs.

So, when do patients begin to feel relief? Let’s take a look at the typical timeline:

After the First Dose

During your session, you will self-administer 1-3 nasal sprays of SPRAVATO® medication under supervision. Immediately after, you may experience minor SPRAVATO® side effects—disorientation, sleepiness, or slight nausea. These feelings are temporary and usually subside within a few hours.

While some patients may experience immediate symptom relief, this is rare, although some patients do report feeling calmer or an emotional softening. Most patients see noticeable improvements build gradually—sometimes within hours of treatment; other times within days. It’s important to note that these improvements are often subtle.

Weeks 1 & 2

Most SPRAVATO® treatment schedules begin with two sessions every week for the first month. During the first two weeks, you may begin to experience slight improvements in mood or energy, fewer negative thoughts, and feel emotionally lighter.

Weeks 3 & 4

By weeks three and four, many patients report a more consistent sense of relief. Things start to feel different—not in fleeting moments, but throughout the day. Patients often report improved sleeping patterns, feeling less reactive, more stable, and more motivated. You may continue to experience mood fluctuations, but the lows are often shorter and less overwhelming.

Beyond One Month

After the first month, many patients transition into a maintenance phase, generally with treatments scheduled once per week or bi-weekly. By this stage, many SPRAVATO® medication patients report a variety of benefits, including consistent mood stability, greater progress in therapy sessions, and a general improvement in their daily lives.

Factors That Influence How Quickly SPRAVATO® Works

Everyone’s brain and body respond differently to SPRAVATO® medication. How quickly you respond to treatment may depend on:

• Your brain chemistry: Your biological makeup often determines how quickly you respond to SPRAVATO® medication. Since SPRAVATO® targets the NDMA receptor rather than serotonin, your brain response may be faster (or slower), depending on how it is wired.
• The severity and type of depression: Patients with long-term or severe depression and anxiety may take longer to see improvement.
• Additional medications: SPRAVATO® medication is often paired with other antidepressants to enhance effectiveness.
• Lifestyle: Are you getting the necessary nutrients from your diet? Are you exercising and getting enough sleep? These factors all contribute to your treatment success.
• Frequency of treatment: Sticking to your treatment regimen is critical, especially during the first month.

Questions About SPRAVATO® Medication? Let’s Talk.

Unsure whether SPRAVATO® treatment is right for you? Our friendly and compassionate team is here to answer all of your questions. Learn more about both treatment options by scheduling a consultation today!

Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine if ketamine therapy is suitable for your unique situation.