Discover Spravato

Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, used alongside or standalone an oral antidepressant, for depressive symptoms with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. It works differently from many traditional antidepressants and is administered intranasally under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.  It's delivered under required in-office monitoring per its FDA REMS program.  

Understanding Esketamine

Think of it like clearing a traffic jam in the brain. Standard antidepressants work slowly, gradually turning up serotonin over weeks. Esketamine takes a different route — it blocks a receptor called NMDA, which is thought to spark a quick burst of glutamate activity and help the brain grow new connections, especially in areas tied to mood. The theory: instead of a slow rebuild, it's more like flipping on the lights and letting the brain start rewiring itself right away — which is why some people notice a difference in hours or days, not weeks.

Is Spravato® Right for You?

 If you've tried antidepressants but still struggle with depression, you are not alone. Many people continue to experience symptoms despite taking medication as prescribed. SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved treatment that offers a different approach for adults with treatment-resistant depression. 


Our approach is centered on you—not just your diagnosis. We take time to understand your symptoms, treatment history, goals, and overall mental health before determining whether Spravato may be an appropriate part of your care plan. 

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You may be a candidate if you:

Have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

  • Have tried two or more antidepressant medications without adequate improvement.
  • Continue to experience symptoms such as:

Persistent sadness or hopelessness

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

Fatigue or low energy

Difficulty concentrating

Changes in sleep or appetite

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

  • Are currently taking (or are willing to take) an oral antidepressant as part of your treatment plan.
  • Are looking for an evidence-based treatment option when traditional antidepressants have not provided enough relief.

You are willing to continue taking an oral antidepressant as part of your treatment plan.

Continuing your oral antidepressant helps provide ongoing symptom management while SPRAVATO® works through a different mechanism in the brain. Throughout your treatment, your provider will monitor your progress and make medication adjustments as needed to ensure your treatment plan remains safe and effective. 

You're committed to attending scheduled treatment appointments.

 For the first four weeks, most patients receive treatment twice each week, for a total of 8 treatments.

Each visit typically lasts 2½ to 3 hours, including:

  • Check-in and vital signs
  • Medication administration
  • Two-hour observation period
  • Final evaluation before discharge

Insurance for Spravato?

Spravato is FDA-approved and covered by many insurance plans for treatment-resistant depression but coverage details, prior authorization requirements, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan. We're in-network with Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Optum, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more (see our full /insurance page). Spravato coverage may still require prior authorization even when we're in-network — our office can help verify this before you start treatment. Self-pay options are available if your plan doesn't cover Spravato. 

Ready to explore whether Spravato may be right for you?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at contact@lifeworxmentalhealth.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

No. Because SPRAVATO® can cause temporary drowsiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, or dissociation, you cannot drive or operate machinery until the day after your treatment, following a restful night's sleep. You will need to arrange for a responsible adult or other approved transportation to take you home after every treatment session. 

Every patient's experience is unique. During treatment, some people describe feeling deeply relaxed or detached from their surroundings, while others notice changes in perception, time, or their thoughts. You may also feel sleepy or lightheaded. These effects are expected, are closely monitored by our clinical team, and typically begin to wear off during the required observation period. Most patients return to their usual baseline before leaving the office. 

 The most common side effects include:

  • Feeling disconnected from yourself or your surroundings (dissociation)
  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness or sedation
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Headache
  • Vertigo or a spinning sensation
  • Reduced sensitivity to touch or other sensations

These side effects are generally temporary and resolve the same day. Throughout your treatment, our healthcare team will monitor your vital signs and overall well-being to ensure your safety and comfort before you are discharged.