Spravato is a prescription medicine used along with an antidepressant, and it is taken by adults with treatment-resistant depression. Depression is treatment-resistant when at least two other oral antidepressants have not worked. This medication offers a different mechanism of action than standard antidepressants, since other options may not work.
How Does Spravato Work?
The medication is administered as a nasal spray. You administer the spray yourself, but a healthcare provider must supervise the process. This aids safety and correct dosing during your visit. The treatment session typically requires observation for at least two hours. During this time, the clinical team monitors your health signs, observes for reactions, and checks your comfort. Because you cannot drive after treatment, you must arrange transportation home. Side effects may occur during the session, and the observation period manages these potential reactions. Drowsiness or dissociation are common effects, but they usually resolve within the observation window. The provider will check your blood pressure before and after the administration.
What are the Protocols?
The FDA-approved Spravato protocol begins with an induction phase. This initial phase consists of twice-weekly treatments for four weeks. This frequency helps the medication build effectiveness in your system. After the first month, the frequency changes to a maintenance schedule. You will transition to once-weekly treatments for the next four weeks. This schedule maintains the progress made during the first month. Your doctor will evaluate your progress, and your plan will be adjusted accordingly. Some providers recommend a taper protocol following the FDA-approved protocol to support ongoing remission. The taper protocol increases the interval between treatments, helping the body adjust and monitoring for returning symptoms.
How is Effectiveness Measured?
Since effectiveness is measured by the reduction of depressive symptoms, your provider will likely ask about your mental symptoms. Clinical trials showed improvement in symptoms as early as twenty-four hours. Full benefits often take the complete course of treatment to manifest. Patients report changes in mood, energy levels, and overall daily functioning. Your healthcare provider uses standardized scales to track these changes over time. Communicate openly about your experience, as your feedback guides the treatment plan. Continue your oral antidepressant while using Spravato. This combination therapy supports the best possible outcome for your mental health.
Spravato treatments are administered in a controlled medical setting to provide safety and comfort. During each session, you will be monitored by trained professionals who address any immediate side effects or concerns. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, or mild dissociation, but these usually subside shortly after the session. Arrange a safe ride home afterward, as you may feel temporarily impaired. Consistent appointments and following your provider’s recommendations help achieve the best results from Spravato therapy. Ask questions or express concerns at any time. Your well-being remains the highest priority throughout this process.
Take the Next Step
Consulting a specialist is the first step toward relief. Discuss your history with them, and they will determine if Spravato fits your needs. Insurance coverage varies, but many providers offer assistance with verification. If you have struggled with multiple antidepressants without success, this option may be appropriate. Contact a certified treatment center to schedule your initial consultation. You do not have to navigate treatment-resistant depression alone.
