SPRAVATO TREATMENT
FDA-approved esketamine therapy for adults whose depression has not responded to other treatments.
Reviewed by Dr. Samuel
WHAT SPRAVATO IS
Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, a nasal spray approved by the FDA for adults with treatment-resistant depression and for depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder who have suicidal thoughts. It works differently than standard antidepressants. Rather than acting on serotonin over a period of weeks, esketamine acts on the brain’s glutamate system, and many patients notice a change sooner.
Spravato can be prescribed alongside an oral antidepressant, or on its own. The FDA approved it as a standalone treatment for treatment-resistant depression in January 2025, and your provider will decide which approach fits your situation. If you are not sure whether you have reached that point, start with our depression treatment page.
WHO IT IS FOR
Spravato is generally considered when an adult has tried at least two antidepressants at an adequate dose and duration without sufficient relief. Our providers review your full treatment history before recommending it, and we will be direct with you about whether it is a reasonable next step.
WHAT A TREATMENT VISIT LOOKS LIKE
Because of how esketamine works, Spravato can only be given in a certified healthcare setting under the FDA’s REMS program. You self-administer the nasal spray in our office, then stay for at least two hours while our staff monitors your blood pressure and how you are feeling. You cannot drive yourself home afterward, so plan for a ride. Our guide to what ketamine therapy feels like walks through the session in more detail.
Treatment typically starts twice weekly, then steps down over time based on how you respond.
SIDE EFFECTS AND MONITORING
The most common effect is dissociation, a temporary sense of being disconnected from your body or surroundings. With Spravato this is expected, and it usually resolves within a couple of hours. That is exactly why the two-hour monitoring window exists. Other common effects include increased blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, and sedation. We cover all of these in detail in Spravato side effects: what to expect and why the monitoring matters.
Contact Us for HelpButtonTestimonials
See what people are saying about Complete Healthcare
Excellent healthcare service with polite staff and smooth appointment process. Everything was handled professionally.
The providers are knowledgeable and easy to talk to. I always feel comfortable asking questions.
Every visit has been smooth and professional. The entire team is wonderful.
My provider over at the West Broad Location is amazing. The front desk staff is incredible and so is the lab tech. 20/10!
I’ve been coming to Dr Samuel and his team for long time and I will give 10/10 and recommend him to anyone really best and satisfying ☺️😱
I absolutely adore everyone here the staff are amazing and Madison my doctor listens to all my concerns. I have been coming here for over ten years years.
Even after completing the program, they stayed in touch through follow-ups. That continued care really shows their commitment to long-term recovery.
Addiction had affected my decision making and the therapy sessions helped improve clarity and promote better life choices.
I faced constant stress and triggers and the coping mechanisms learned here helped manage them effectively without relapse.
I was unable to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms on my own and the supervised detox and therapy sessions provided the right support which made the recovery process safe and more manageable.
I lacked awareness about my triggers before and the education and counseling provided here helped improve understanding and control.
I have been coming here for a few years now and I love my NP Madison she’s so nice and helpful every time. I have had some issues with a discrepancy between my insurance and what i was billed a few months ago ( i was over charged) and this still hasn’t been solved. At my last appointment i tried to ask the front desk for help and the lady acted as if she couldn’t help me at all nor did she care and she was rude. I’ve also spoken with this same lady on the phone and she’s passive aggressive and rude. Otherwise i love this dr office for primary and obgyn.
Overall, Complete Healthcare North stands out as a gold standard in addiction care. The team’s expertise, warmth, and unwavering dedication helped me rebuild my life with confidence. Every staff member—from intake to aftercare—played a vital role in helping me find clarity, direction, and lasting sobriety.
I came for my Blood everyone was so nice I am hoping to come there for all my needs
The environment is positive and encouraging, and the staff never let you feel alone. Recovery truly feels possible here.
Safe, clean, and full of people who genuinely care. Couldn’t ask for more.
I felt truly understood and supported here. The center provides both professional guidance and emotional support throughout the recovery process.
From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere at Complete Healthcare North was warm and reassuring. Their holistic care model addresses mind, body, and spirit. My counselor took time to understand me as a whole person, not just my addiction, which made all the difference in staying committed to recovery.
