What conditions is Spravato® used to treat?

Spravato® is an FDA-approved treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and for major depressive disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors, when used alongside an oral antidepressant. It is typically considered when patients have not experienced sufficient improvement with conventional antidepressant medications.

How quickly can Spravato® begin working?

Some individuals experience improvement in depressive symptoms within days or weeks, which can be faster than the timeline commonly seen with traditional antidepressants. However, treatment response varies from person to person and depends on factors such as medical history, diagnosis, and adherence to the treatment plan.

What is the difference between Spravato® and IV ketamine?

Spravato® contains esketamine, a derivative of ketamine, and is FDA-approved with strict safety monitoring requirements under the REMS program. IV ketamine therapy, while widely used in specialized clinics, is considered an off-label treatment delivered intravenously.

At Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center, our providers may discuss both treatment options and help determine which approach may be most appropriate based on each patient’s condition and treatment history.

Is Spravato® safe?

Spravato® has undergone extensive clinical research and received FDA approval for specific forms of depression. Because it may cause temporary effects such as sedation, dissociation, or increases in blood pressure, the medication must be administered in a certified medical setting with continuous monitoring before patients are allowed to leave the clinic.

How often are Spravato® treatments scheduled?

Most treatment plans begin with an induction phase of twice-weekly sessions, followed by weekly or bi-weekly maintenance treatments as symptoms improve. Your provider will tailor the treatment schedule based on your clinical response and overall progress.

Can I drive after a Spravato® treatment session?

No. Because Spravato® may cause sedation or changes in perception, patients must arrange transportation home after each session and should avoid driving or operating machinery until the following day.

Is Spravato® covered by insurance?

Many commercial insurance plans and some government programs provide coverage for Spravato® when medical eligibility criteria are met. Coverage often requires prior authorization, and our staff can assist with verifying insurance benefits and navigating the approval process.

Who may not be a candidate for Spravato®?

Spravato® may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, including uncontrolled hypertension, aneurysms, or known hypersensitivity to ketamine or esketamine. It is also generally not recommended during pregnancy. A full medical evaluation is required to determine whether the treatment is appropriate.

Do I still need to take an antidepressant with Spravato®?

Yes. Current FDA guidelines require Spravato® to be prescribed in combination with an oral antidepressant medication. Your provider will work with you to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage for your treatment plan.

How do I begin Spravato® treatment near Franklin, TN?

The process begins with a consultation at Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center. During this visit, our clinical team reviews your medical history, evaluates treatment eligibility, and discusses available options before creating a personalized treatment plan.

What to Expect During Spravato® Treatment

Spravato® treatments are administered on-site at our certified medical clinic and follow strict safety protocols established by the FDA’s REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) program.

Key aspects of the treatment process include:

• Medication administered only in a certified healthcare setting

• Continuous medical supervision throughout the session

• Observation period of at least two hours after each treatment

• At-home use is not permitted under FDA regulations

This structured environment allows patients to receive treatment safely while ensuring appropriate monitoring and support from trained medical staff.

Important Spravato® Safety Information

As with any medical treatment, Spravato® carries potential risks and side effects. Some patients may experience:

• Drowsiness or sedation

• Dissociation (a feeling of detachment or altered perception)

• Temporary increases in blood pressure

• Nausea or dizziness

Because esketamine has potential for misuse, treatment must be provided in a controlled medical setting with careful monitoring. Spravato® is generally not recommended during pregnancy, and patients are routinely assessed for any changes in mood or suicidal thoughts throughout treatment.

Your provider will review all potential risks, benefits, and alternative options before therapy begins.

Is Spravato® Right for You?

Spravato® represents an important advancement in the treatment of depression, particularly for individuals who have struggled to find relief with conventional medications. By targeting the brain’s glutamate system, this FDA-approved esketamine therapy offers a different mechanism that may help eligible patients experience faster and more meaningful symptom improvement.

At Tennessee Ketamine & Wellness Center, our goal is to provide compassionate, individualized care grounded in clinical evidence. Whether you are considering Spravato®, IV ketamine therapy, or other mental health treatments, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn whether Spravato® treatment near Franklin, TN may be appropriate for your needs.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Spravato® is available only through FDA-certified treatment centers participating in the REMS program, where it is administered and monitored on-site. Please consult your healthcare provider and refer to the Full Prescribing Information for complete safety details.