What to Expect During a SPRAVATO® Treatment Session

You may have heard about SPRAVATO®, an FDA-approved therapy for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. But if you have not experienced the treatment yourself, you likely have questions about SPRAVATO® treatment side effects and treatment protocol. That's what we'll cover here.

What is SPRAVATO®?

SPRAVATO® is a nasal spray medication containing esketamine (a ketamine derivative) that was FDA-approved in 2019 for treatment-resistant depression. Several factors make it stand out from traditional treatments:

• SPRAVATO® patients often achieve relief within hours or days—not weeks
• It can be taken as a standalone medication or with traditional medications
• It is specifically designed for those who have not found relief after trying two or more traditional antidepressant treatments
• It must be administered by a certified healthcare professional at SPRAVATO® certified treatment center
• It is a convenient alternative to IV ketamine treatments, which can be more intensive and are often not covered by insurance providers

The SPRAVATO® Treatment Protocol: What To Expect

SPRAVATO® treatment protocol typically follows this order:

Consultation & Schedule Treatment

While thousands of patients have found relief with SPRAVATO®, it is not an ideal treatment for everyone. To ensure success, our certified healthcare professionals review your medical history, previous treatments, and current medication during the initial consultation. We’ll also answer any of your questions. If we believe SPRAVATO® could be effective, we’ll schedule your first treatment session.

Check-In & Pre-Treatment

When you arrive for your first appointment, you’ll complete paperwork and undergo a pre-treatment assessment. This typically includes checking your blood pressure and mental state. We advise patients to avoid eating for two hours before or drinking liquids for 30 minutes before we administer the treatment.

Administering Treatment

The treatment itself is convenient and non-invasive. SPRAVATO® is self-administered, which means you give yourself 1-3 nasal sprays while your healthcare professional supervises.

Unlike take-home medications, SPRAVATO® is only available at SPRAVATO® certified treatment centers like ours. Many patients, especially those who fear needles, favor this treatment method over IV ketamine treatments.

Observation Period

SPRAVATO® can cause sleepiness, dizziness, or a spinning sensation. To ensure your safety and well-being, our healthcare providers will monitor you for two hours after taking your dose. During this time, you’ll relax in a comfortable environment while we regularly assess your vital signs and overall feelings. Many patients use this time to read, listen to music, or simply rest.

Post-Session Evaluation

Before we send you on your way, our healthcare professionals will evaluate your mental state to ensure any side effects have passed. Next, we’ll schedule a follow-up treatment.

What Might You Feel During SPRAVATO® Treatment?

Many patients experience relief within hours of SPRAVATO® treatment. However, the initial response to the treatment varies with each patient. Common feelings include:

• Feeling detached from reality or yourself
• A floating sensation
• A shift in perception, whether it be time or surroundings
• Mild visual or sensory effects
• Feeling relaxed or sedated
• Improved mood
• Reduced anxiety and tension
• Dizziness or nausea (typically mild and temporary)
• Increased blood pressure (monitored by staff)
• Mental clarity or new perspectives on problems

Typically, SPRAVATO® treatment side effects peak 40 minutes after administration and subside during the observation period. In general, most patients find administration manageable and even pleasant, particularly once they know what to expect.

Still Have Questions About SPRAVATO®?

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.