Phone: (949)392-0159

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) Nasal Spray Treatment

Spravato® (esketamine) is an approved U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) nasal spray for the treatment of major depressive disorder.
 

Exploring Spravato® (Esketamine) Nasal Spray: A Modern Approach to Treatment for Depression when Traditional Anti-Depressants Haven’t Worked

The FDA approval of SPRAVATO (esketamine) nasal spray treatment, represents a step forward in depression treatment, offering rapid relief to those who have struggled with the often slow and limited effectiveness of traditional antidepressants. Many patients have reported significant improvements in their mood and overall quality of life, making it a valuable option for those who have exhausted other treatments.

How does SPRAVATO work?

SPRAVATO is a prescription medication that contains esketamine, a derivative of ketamine, which has long been known for its anesthetic properties. Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily target neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, SPRAVATO is an NMDA receptor antagonist that is believed to work differently by acting on a pathway in the brain that affects glutamate (glutamate is the most abundant neurotransmitter [chemical messenger] in the brain).

This unique mechanism of action allows it to create rapid antidepressant effects, sometimes within hours to days, rather than the weeks required by conventional medications.

How is SPRAVATO administered? 

You will administer SPRAVATO® nasal spray yourself under the supervision of a physician at a certified SPRAVATO® treatment center.

Who can benefit from SPRAVATO?

SPRAVATO is intended for adults with:

  • Treatment-resistant depression (TRD): Individuals who have not found relief after trying at least two different antidepressant treatments.
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD): Those experiencing severe depressive symptoms.

Do insurance companies cover SPRAVATO?

Yes, most insurance companies cover SPRAVATO.

What are the potential side effects of SPRAVATO?

Like any medication, SPRAVATO comes with potential side effects, including:

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Sedation
  • Dissociation (feeling disconnected from oneself or surroundings)

Due to the risk of sedation and dissociation, patients are advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery the day of your treatment.

Would you like to learn more about SPRAVATO? 

If you or a loved one are battling treatment-resistant depression or severe depressive symptoms, it may be worth discussing SPRAVATO with your doctor or therapist. A thorough evaluation will help determine if this innovative treatment is the right next step in your care plan. 

If you want to learn more, call us today at (949) 392-0159. 

Frequently asked questions and more detailed patient information can be found here: https://www.spravato.com/

Hear Real Stories, From Real Patients

Patients should continue care with their therapist or psychiatrist throughout their treatments.

Iris Mejia, RN

Iris Mejia, RN, is a registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Hawaii Maui College. With 21 years of experience as a Labor and Delivery nurse, she developed a keen interest in mental health nursing. Her firsthand experience with ketamine infusion therapy led her to pursue her passion in this field.

Iris is dedicated to helping patients achieve their optimal well-being through compassionate care and evidence-based practices.

Outside of work, Iris enjoys practicing yoga, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.

Susan DeRobertis,
BSN, PMHRN-BC

Susan DeRobertis, BSN, PMHRN-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Registered Nurse and holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Cal State Fullerton.

Susan’s commitment to mental health and wellness is driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those struggling with mood disorders. Having witnessed firsthand the limitations of traditional therapies for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood and chronic pain disorders, she is an advocate of ketamine infusion therapy as a transformative treatment option. Susan is passionate about supporting individuals and their families through their mental health journeys and continues to be excited when she sees firsthand the positive changes that ketamine therapy can bring.

Over the past decade, Susan has dedicated herself to providing care at the Mental Health and Wellness Institute at Mission Hospital Laguna Beach. She is also a nursing instructor at the University of California, Irvine.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susan is a devoted mother, a talented musician, and an avid live music fan. She finds joy in spending quality time with her daughters, traveling, and attending concerts.