Written by Corina Girigan, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C — Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in depression, anxiety, addiction, and medication management at New Dawn Psychiatric Care. Read full bio →
Updated: [07/07/2026]
What Is Spravato Treatment?
Spravato treatment is an FDA-approved prescription medication used alongside an oral antidepressant to treat adults with treatment-resistant depression and certain cases of major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions. Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin, Spravato works through the brain’s glutamate system, which may help relieve depressive symptoms more quickly for some patients.
For people who have tried multiple antidepressants without meaningful improvement, Spravato treatment can offer another option when depression continues to interfere with daily life, relationships, work, and overall well-being.
TL;DR
- Spravato treatment is an FDA-approved nasal spray medication used for treatment-resistant depression.
- Spravato contains esketamine, which works differently than traditional antidepressants by targeting glutamate pathways in the brain.
- Treatment takes place in a certified medical office under supervision and includes a monitoring period after each session.
- Many patients consider Spravato after trying multiple antidepressants without achieving sufficient symptom relief.
Table of Contents
- What Is Spravato Treatment?
- How Does Spravato Work for Depression?
- Who Is Spravato Treatment For?
- How Effective Is Spravato Treatment?
- What Are the Benefits of Spravato Treatment?
- What Happens During a Spravato Appointment?
- What Are the Possible Side Effects of Spravato?
- How Can New Dawn Help You Explore Spravato Treatment?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Spravato Treatment?
Spravato treatment is a prescription nasal spray containing esketamine, a medication derived from ketamine. The FDA approved Spravato in 2019 for adults with treatment-resistant depression and later expanded approval for adults experiencing major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Spravato is not prescribed as a standalone treatment. Patients continue taking an oral antidepressant while receiving Spravato under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one-third of people with major depressive disorder do not achieve adequate symptom relief from initial antidepressant treatment. Spravato was developed to address this gap in care.
How Does Spravato Work for Depression?
Spravato treatment works differently than most traditional antidepressants.
Many antidepressants focus on neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine. Spravato primarily affects glutamate, which is the brain’s most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter and plays an important role in learning, memory, and neural connections.
Researchers believe Spravato helps strengthen and restore communication between brain cells that may be affected by chronic depression. This mechanism may contribute to symptom improvement in people who have not responded to conventional medications.
One reason Spravato has received significant attention is that some patients experience improvement more quickly than is typically seen with traditional antidepressants, which often require several weeks before noticeable benefits occur.
Who Is Spravato Treatment For?
Spravato treatment is designed for specific groups of patients rather than everyone experiencing depression.
You may be a candidate if:
- You have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder.
- You have tried at least two antidepressants without adequate symptom improvement.
- Depression symptoms continue to significantly affect your daily functioning.
- You are able to attend regular in-office treatment sessions.
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is necessary before determining whether Spravato is appropriate for your situation.
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate for Spravato?
Certain medical conditions may affect eligibility.
Your provider will review factors such as:
- Blood pressure concerns
- Cardiovascular health
- History of certain neurological conditions
- Pregnancy status
- Substance use history
The goal is to determine whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks based on your individual medical and psychiatric history.
How Effective Is Spravato Treatment?
Clinical studies have shown that Spravato treatment can reduce depressive symptoms in many patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Research published in peer-reviewed journals has found that patients receiving Spravato alongside an oral antidepressant often experienced greater symptom improvement compared to those receiving an oral antidepressant alone.
Results vary from person to person. Some patients notice changes relatively early in treatment, while others require additional sessions before evaluating effectiveness.
Several factors influence outcomes, including:
| Factor | Potential Impact |
| Length of depressive symptoms | Longer symptom duration may require more comprehensive treatment |
| Previous treatment history | Prior medication response provides useful clinical information |
| Co-occurring mental health conditions | Anxiety, trauma, and other conditions may affect treatment planning |
| Consistency with treatment schedule | Adherence improves the ability to evaluate progress |
The key takeaway is that Spravato treatment is one tool within a larger depression treatment plan rather than a universal solution for every patient.
What Are the Benefits of Spravato Treatment?
The potential benefits of Spravato treatment extend beyond symptom reduction.
Many patients pursue Spravato because they are looking for options after multiple medication trials have provided limited relief.
Potential benefits may include:
- Reduction in depressive symptoms
- Improvement in motivation and daily functioning
- Increased engagement in therapy and self-care
- Better quality of life
- Additional treatment options when traditional medications have been unsuccessful
Every patient’s experience is different, which is why ongoing monitoring remains an essential part of treatment.
What Happens During a Spravato Appointment?
Spravato treatment occurs in a certified healthcare setting under medical supervision.
A typical appointment includes:
Arrival and Check-In
Your provider reviews your symptoms, medications, and overall health before treatment.
Administration of Spravato
The medication is self-administered as a nasal spray under supervision.
Monitoring Period
Patients remain in the office for observation after treatment. Providers monitor for side effects and ensure patient safety before discharge.
Transportation Home
Because Spravato can temporarily affect alertness and coordination, patients should arrange transportation home following treatment.
Treatment frequency is typically highest during the initial phase and may decrease over time based on response and clinical recommendations.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Spravato?
Like any medication, Spravato treatment carries potential side effects.
Common side effects may include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Increased blood pressure
- Sleepiness
- Dissociation or feeling detached from surroundings
- Headache
Most side effects occur shortly after treatment and generally resolve during the monitoring period.
Your provider will discuss risks, benefits, and safety considerations before treatment begins.
How Can New Dawn Psychiatric Care Help You Explore Spravato Treatment?
Determining whether Spravato treatment is appropriate starts with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.
At New Dawn Psychiatric Care, we assess your treatment history, current symptoms, medical background, and treatment goals to determine whether Spravato may be a suitable option. If Spravato is not the best fit, we can discuss other evidence-based approaches, including medication management, psychotherapy referrals, lifestyle interventions, or additional advanced treatment options.
Depression can feel overwhelming, especially after multiple unsuccessful treatment attempts. A personalized evaluation can help clarify the next step in your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Spravato the same as ketamine?
Spravato contains esketamine, which is derived from ketamine but is a distinct FDA-approved medication. Spravato is administered through a nasal spray and is used under strict medical supervision in certified treatment settings.
How quickly does Spravato treatment work?
Some patients report improvement within days or weeks, though timelines vary. Your response depends on factors such as symptom severity, treatment history, and overall health.
Does insurance cover Spravato treatment?
Many insurance plans provide coverage for Spravato treatment when medical necessity criteria are met. Coverage varies by insurer, so verification is recommended before starting treatment.
Is Spravato addictive?
When used as prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider, Spravato has established safety protocols designed to reduce risks. Your provider will discuss concerns regarding misuse and dependency during the evaluation process.
Can I continue taking antidepressants during Spravato treatment?
Yes. Spravato is typically prescribed alongside an oral antidepressant as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
About New Dawn Psychiatric Care
New Dawn Psychiatric Care provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and advanced depression treatment options for adults seeking personalized mental health care. Our team works with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and treatment-resistant depression, including those who have not found sufficient relief through traditional antidepressant medications. Through evidence-based care and individualized treatment planning, we help patients explore options such as Spravato treatment as part of a broader path toward recovery.
About the Author
Written by Corina Girigan, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C- is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at New Dawn Psychiatric Care. She specializes in the evaluation and treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and treatment-resistant mental health conditions. Through a combination of psychiatric assessment, medication management, and advanced treatment options, Corina Girigan helps patients develop treatment plans tailored to their unique symptoms, goals, and life circumstances.
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