SPRAVATO® (esketamine) Treatment for Depression

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is a prescription nasal spray approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with:

• Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors (when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan)

Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine, SPRAVATO® works differently by targeting the brain's N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, part of the glutamate system. Researchers believe this mechanism helps strengthen neural connections involved in mood regulation and may promote faster improvement in depressive symptoms.

SPRAVATO® is always prescribed in combination with an oral antidepressant.

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) occurs when symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) have not improved despite trying at least two different antidepressant medications at appropriate doses and for an adequate length of time.

Living with treatment-resistant depression can be incredibly frustrating. Many individuals continue to experience persistent sadness, loss of interest, low motivation, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep or appetite, and feelings of hopelessness, even after faithfully following their treatment plan.

Fortunately, not responding to one or two medications does not mean that recovery is out of reach. Today, there are several evidence-based treatment options available for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, including medication optimization, psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions and SPRAVATO® (esketamine). During your psychiatric evaluation, our providers will work with you to determine the treatment approach that best fits your individual needs and goals.

SPRAVATO® may be an appropriate treatment option if you:

• Have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder

• Have tried two or more antidepressant medications without adequate improvement

• Continue to experience significant symptoms despite treatment

• Are seeking an evidence-based alternative for treatment-resistant depression

• Meet the medical and clinical criteria established for SPRAVATO® treatment

Your provider will complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine whether SPRAVATO® is appropriate for your individual situation.

Most antidepressants work by increasing serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine levels in the brain and may take several weeks before patients begin noticing improvement.

SPRAVATO® works differently.

It targets the brain's NMDA receptor within the glutamate system, which is believed to help restore communication between nerve cells and strengthen important neural pathways involved in mood regulation.

Clinical studies have shown encouraging results for many individuals with treatment-resistant depression.

In a short-term clinical study, patients who received SPRAVATO® together with an oral antidepressant experienced a greater reduction in depressive symptoms after four weeks compared with patients receiving an oral antidepressant and placebo.

Long-term studies also demonstrated that patients who continued maintenance treatment with SPRAVATO® after achieving improvement were less likely to experience a return of depressive symptoms than those who discontinued treatment.

As with any medication, individual results vary, and your provider will discuss whether SPRAVATO® is an appropriate option for your treatment goals.

We understand that each person’s journey with mental health is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized care that caters to your specific needs. If you believe you or a loved one could benefit from Spravato treatment, or if you have any questions about this new service, please do not hesitate to contact us.

SPRAVATO® is administered as a nasal spray in our office under the direct supervision of your healthcare provider.

Each treatment visit generally includes:

• Review of your symptoms and overall progress

• Blood pressure assessment before treatment

• Self-administration of the nasal spray under provider supervision

• Approximately two hours of observation and monitoring

• Discharge home with a responsible adult driver

Because SPRAVATO® may cause temporary drowsiness, dizziness, or dissociation, patients are not permitted to drive until the following day after a restful night's sleep.

At Inspire Psychiatric, we believe that your treatment environment is just as important as the treatment itself. Our goal is to create a calm, comfortable, and supportive experience where you can relax and focus on your healing.

Patients often tell us that our SPRAVATO® treatment rooms are among the most comfortable they've experienced. Each patient is provided with a private treatment room, allowing for a quiet, peaceful, and personalized experience. We thoughtfully create an environment designed to promote comfort, with relaxing music, cozy furnishings, and a tranquil atmosphere throughout your visit.

Our team of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners has completed specialized SPRAVATO® training and remains current with the latest clinical research and evidence-based treatment recommendations. We are committed to providing safe, compassionate care while partnering with you every step of your journey.

When you choose Inspire Psychiatric, you can expect:

• A private, comfortable treatment room for every session

• A calm, quiet environment designed to promote relaxation

• Compassionate, individualized care from experienced psychiatric providers

• Ongoing monitoring throughout your treatment for your comfort and safety

• Assistance with insurance verification and prior authorizations

• A holistic approach that integrates medication management, psychotherapy, patient education, and healthy lifestyle practices

Our mission is to help you feel supported, respected, and hopeful as you work toward lasting improvement in your mental health.

Our team will guide you through every step of the process, including:

• Determining if you are a candidate

• Insurance benefit verification

• Prior authorization (when required)

• Scheduling treatment appointments

• Ongoing monitoring throughout treatment

• Coordination with your current mental health providers when appropriate

Our goal is to make the process as smooth and supportive as possible.

Many commercial insurance plans provide coverage for eligible patients receiving SPRAVATO®.  

Our office will work with you to verify your insurance benefits and obtain any required prior authorizations before treatment begins.

Eligible commercially insured patients may qualify to pay as little as $10 per treatment through the manufacturer's savings program.

Terms, eligibility requirements, annual benefit limits, and program details are determined by Johnson & Johnson and are subject to change. Observation fees associated with treatment are not included in the savings program.

Learn More About the Savings Program

Wondering whether SPRAVATO® may be right for you?

Visit the official SPRAVATO® patient website to learn more about treatment, eligibility, and frequently asked questions.

LEARN MORE