Is Spravato
right for me?
What Is SPRAVATO® (esketamine)?
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved, in-clinic nasal spray medication for adults with moderate to severe treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or people struggling with acute suicidal ideation.
Bluegrass Advanced Mental Health delivers Spravato under medical supervision in a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS)-certified clinic with careful monitoring and follow-up.
The treatment can be combined with antidepressants when clinically appropriate. If you've tried multiple antidepressants without adequate relief, Spravato may offer a new path forward.
This innovative treatment works differently than traditional antidepressants and can provide rapid symptom improvement for many patients when other approaches haven't been enough.
Spravato Benefits
- FDA-Approved
- Rapid-Acting (often within 24 hours)
- Non-invasive (nasal spray)
- Clinician Supervised (REMS-certified)
- Approved Alone or With Antidepressants
- Insurance Accepted
Spravato Quick Overview
What is Spravato?
Spravato (esketamine) is a prescription nasal spray containing esketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist derived from ketamine, that is FDA-approved for in-clinic use.
How is Spravato different than anti-depressants?
Unlike most oral antidepressants that act on serotonin or dopamine, esketamine works on the glutamate system, to help restore neural connections. Because of this mechanism, Spravato can produce rapid symptom relief for many patients often within 24 hours to a few days.
Who is a good candidate for Spravato?
Adults with TRD and selected patients with major depression and acute suicidal ideation. Spravato is an advanced therapy for adults; adolescent use is not yet standard.
How does Spravato work?
The Science - Esketamine modulates the brain's glutamate signaling and promotes changes in neural connectivity that are thought to underlie rapid improvements in mood and reduction of suicidal ideation. Research suggests this mechanism supports the brain's natural ability to form new neural connections (neuroplasticity), which may help restore healthier patterns of brain function. This mechanism makes psychotherapy more effective, so we recommend people meet with their therapist the following day to integrate the experience and work on personal goals.
Is Spravato safe and how is it monitored?
Spravato is available only through the (REMS) program, which requires certified clinics to meet rigorous safety and monitoring standards. Bluegrass Advanced Mental Health is REMS-certified and our team is extensively trained in Spravato administration and monitoring protocols.
What are the common side effects?
Common short-term effects include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, sedation, headache transient increases in blood pressure. Most side effects begin quickly, peak early, and resolve within a few hours.
What is the monitoring process like?
Our clinical team monitors your vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels) throughout your session and observes your recovery before you leave. You'll remain in our clinic for the full observation period to ensure your safety and comfort.
Spravato MAY Be Appropriate for:
- Adults with Treatment Resistant Depression and selected patients with major depression and acute suicidal ideation
- Patients with severe treatment-resistant depression and have had an inadequate response to at least 2 antidepressant medications
Talk to Us First if You Have:
- Blood vessel disease (aneurysmal vascular disease, history of intracerebral hemorrhage)
- Arteriovenous malformation
- History of subarachnoid hemorrhage
- Hypersensitivity to esketamine, ketamine, or any component of the formulation
Mental Health Care That Works With Your Insurance
TMS and Spravato (esketamine nasal spray) are covered by most major health insurance plans when criteria are met. For patients who are out-of-network or who want accelerated TMS treatment, third-party financing may be available.
A 5-minute screening tells you if TMS or Spravato may be a fit, verifies your insurance coverage, and connects you with our Patient Care Team to schedule your first appointment.
Compare Treatments
A side-by-side look at TMS, Spravato, medication, and therapy - who they help, how fast they work, and what to expect.
Is TMS Right For Me?
A quick self-screen to see if TMS might fit your symptoms, prior treatments, & medical profile.
