Spravato®

Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved treatment for depression that works differently from conventional oral medications. Administered as a nasal spray, Spravato is designed specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation or behavior (MDSI). Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks or even months to show an effect, Spravato works on a different pathway in the brain, often leading to a more rapid improvement in depressive symptoms for many patients.

Spravato works differently from traditional antidepressants by targeting the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a role in mood, learning, and memory. It may help restore connections between brain cells and can provide relief from depression symptoms more quickly for some when used alongside an oral antidepressant.

Common side effects of Spravato may include dizziness, nausea, dissociation (feeling disconnected from yourself or your surroundings), sleepiness, increased blood pressure, and headache. These effects are usually temporary and are monitored during your treatment visit. Your provider will review potential risks and answer any questions before starting treatment.

Spravato is for patients with treatment-resistant depression or acute suicidality who have not responded adequately to at least two different antidepressants. It is contraindicated for those with increase in blood pressure or intracranial pressure (e.g., aneurysmal vascular disease, arteriovenous malformation, history of intracerebral hemorrhage).

In many cases, major insurers do cover Spravato for patients who meet the clinical criteria for treatment-resistant depression. Coverage typically requires a prior authorization, a process our administrative team will handle on your behalf to confirm your benefits and eligibility.

The SpravatoWithMe program is a manufacturer-sponsored copay assistance program designed to help eligible, commercially insured patients with their out-of-pocket costs. It can significantly reduce what you owe for the medication itself, making treatment more affordable.

Before your Spravato treatment, avoid eating for at least 2 hours and drinking liquids for 30 minutes before your appointment to help reduce nausea/vomiting. Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you should not drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful sleep. Wear comfortable clothing, bring anything that helps you relax, and plan to stay at the office for monitoring for at least 2 hours.

A typical Spravato treatment is two hours in office. The treatment course begins with an induction phase, which involves two treatment sessions per week for the first four weeks. Following that, you and your povider will determine your ongoing treatment schedule, which is often weekly or bi-weekly, to maintain your progress.

Some patients may begin to notice improvement within hours or days after starting Spravato treatment, while others may take several weeks to experience the full benefits. Response times vary from person to person, and your provider will monitor your progress throughout treatment.

You can call our office at (218) 208-3399, email us at admin@northmindwellness.com, or submit an inquiry here to schedule a consultation for further information.