If you are living with depression, you may have become overwhelmed by the process of finding a treatment that works for you. Traditional therapies often come with a long list of unpleasant side effects, require extensive periods of trial-and-error, or are expensive and not covered by insurance. Spravato is an advanced treatment for depression that offers a path forward. Designed specifically for individuals who haven’t had success with other treatments, this innovative nasal spray can provide quick and lasting relief. Many people interested in this treatment wonder, “What does SPRAVATO do?” At Memorial Park Psychiatry, our dedicated team is here to help you understand what to expect from your sessions.
SPRAVATO is a modern treatment designed specifically for those with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). It is administered as a nasal spray that contains esketamine, a powerful medication known for its ability to provide rapid relief from symptoms of depression.
This makes SPRAVATO particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing intense depressive episodes or suicidal thoughts. SPRAVATO is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat TRD and depressive symptoms as well as acute suicidal ideation or behavior. Of course, if you are experiencing a crisis or psychiatric emergency, please seek immediate medical attention.
A board-certified psychiatry team administers SPRAVATO nasal spray onsite and supervises each session. Throughout the process, the team monitors both physical and mental health to support patient safety and comfort.
SPRAVATO works differently from traditional antidepressants, which makes it particularly effective for those who have not had success with these medications. It acts on NMDA (glutamate) receptors in the brain, helping to rebalance brain chemicals that influence mood and cognition. It also boosts neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to form and repair connections that may have weakened due to prolonged depression.
While antidepressants are a good solution for some, one in three patients experience little benefit, and it can often take weeks to months before feeling improvement. Clinical data shows that 88% of patients who use SPRAVATO report significant symptom relief within just 24 hours. When combined with a standard oral antidepressant, results can be even more profound.
SPRAVATO is the only FDA-approved esketamine-based nasal spray currently available and is generally regarded as safe and well-tolerated. Individuals with treatment-resistant depression or suicidal thoughts may meet the criteria for this therapy. Eligibility typically follows unsuccessful trials of at least two antidepressants without meaningful improvement.
While SPRAVATO is a great option for many, it is not right for everyone. People with uncontrolled medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of aneurysms or brain bleeds may not be eligible for this treatment due to the potential for temporary blood pressure spikes. Additionally, if you have a history of substance use disorders, let our team know, as SPRAVATO may not be the best treatment for you.
The best way to find out if you are a candidate for SPRAVATO is to schedule an initial consultation at our office. During this visit, one of our experienced providers will review your health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. We can then determine your eligibility and create a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.
What does SPRAVATO do? It offers a new path forward for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, SPRAVATO works quickly to deliver relief and promote long-term emotional stability. Many people experience improved clarity, renewed energy, and an overall sense of well-being after starting treatment.
Choosing SPRAVATO is a powerful step toward reclaiming your mental health. As specialists in advanced psychiatric care, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how this innovative treatment may help you feel like yourself again.