SPRAVATO®
An FDA-approved nasal spray for adults whose depression has not improved enough after trying at least two antidepressants. You take it at our Woodbridge, Virginia office under the care of our clinical team.
A different approach when antidepressants have not been enough
SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is a prescription medicine approved by the FDA for adults. Your provider will help you decide if it is a good fit.
Treatment-resistant depression
For adults with major depressive disorder who have tried at least two antidepressants without enough relief. SPRAVATO® can be used on its own or together with an oral antidepressant.
Depression with suicidal thoughts
Also approved, together with an oral antidepressant, for adults with major depressive disorder who have suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
In crisis right now?
SPRAVATO® is not an emergency treatment. If you are thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988, or go to the nearest emergency room.
What to expect at each treatment
Every SPRAVATO® session happens in our Woodbridge office, a certified treatment center. Plan for about two to three hours.
- 01Before you arriveAvoid eating for at least 2 hours and drinking liquids for at least 30 minutes before your appointment. Arrange for someone to drive you home.
- 02Check-inOur team checks your blood pressure to make sure it is safe to begin.
- 03Your doseYou use the nasal spray yourself while a member of our clinical team supervises.
- 04Rest and monitoringYou relax in the office for at least 2 hours while we monitor you and check your blood pressure again.
- 05Heading homeSomeone else drives you home. Do not drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful sleep.
The SPRAVATO® nasal spray
SPRAVATO® comes in a single-use nasal spray device from Johnson & Johnson. You give yourself each dose, reclined slightly, while our clinical team watches and guides you.
Of esketamine in each device.
Per device, one in each nostril.
Per dose, depending on what your provider prescribes.
Of rest between each device. Indicator dots show when each spray is delivered.
SPRAVATO® and SPRAVATO withMe are trademarks of Johnson & Johnson. Links open the manufacturer’s websites.
How often you come in
For treatment-resistant depression, the typical schedule looks like this. Your provider adjusts it based on how you are doing.
Twice a week
The first month builds the foundation of your treatment.
Once a week
Sessions become less frequent as treatment continues.
Every week or two
Your provider sets the ongoing schedule that works best for you.
How soon might I notice a difference?
Is SPRAVATO® the same as ketamine?
Can I keep taking my antidepressant?
Will my insurance cover it?
Is there help with the cost?
How is it different from NeuroStar TMS?
Important Safety Information
SPRAVATO® can cause serious side effects, including:
- Sedation, dissociation, and breathing problems. You may feel very sleepy, feel disconnected from yourself or your surroundings, or have trouble breathing. This is why you are monitored for at least 2 hours after each dose.
- Abuse and misuse. SPRAVATO® carries a risk of abuse and misuse and is only available through a restricted program at certified treatment centers.
- Increased suicidal thoughts and actions in some children, teens, and young adults taking antidepressants. SPRAVATO® is not approved for children.
Do not use SPRAVATO® if you have a blood vessel disease such as an aneurysm, an abnormal connection between veins and arteries, a history of bleeding in the brain, or an allergy to esketamine, ketamine, or any of its ingredients.
Common side effects include feeling disconnected from yourself or your surroundings, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, a spinning sensation, decreased feeling or numbness, anxiety, lack of energy, increased blood pressure, vomiting, feeling drunk, and headache.
This is not a complete list. Talk with your provider about the benefits and risks of SPRAVATO®, and read the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide.
