A Breakthrough Option for Treatment-Resistant Depression
A Breakthrough Option for Treatment-Resistant DepressionDepression can be overwhelming—especially when traditional treatments such as oral antidepressants have not provided sufficient relief. At Northwest Psychiatry & Counseling, we are committed to offering evidence-based, innovative mental health treatments that help patients reclaim their quality of life. One such option is Spravato® (esketamine), an FDA-approved therapy designed specifically for individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation.
Spravato represents a significant advancement in psychiatric care, offering hope to patients who have struggled for years to find an effective treatment.
What Is Spravato®?
Spravato® is a prescription medication derived from esketamine, a compound related to ketamine. Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to show results, Spravato works through the brain’s glutamate system, helping restore neural connections that may be impaired in depression.
Spravato is not a take-home medication. It is administered in a controlled clinical setting under medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How Spravato Works
Traditional antidepressants primarily target serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine. Spravato works differently by:
- Modulating glutamate activity in the brain
- Promoting rapid synaptic repair and neuroplasticity
- Providing faster symptom relief for many patients
Some patients notice improvement in mood, energy, or outlook within hours to days, rather than weeks.
Who May Benefit from Spravato?
Spravato may be an appropriate option for adults who:
- Have treatment-resistant depression (failed to respond to at least two antidepressants)
- Experience severe or persistent depressive symptoms
- Have depression with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Are seeking alternatives after limited success with standard therapies
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is required to determine eligibility.
What to Expect During Treatment
Administration
- Spravato is administered as a nasal spray in our office
- Patients self-administer under provider supervision
- Each session lasts approximately 2 hours, including observation
Treatment Schedule
- Induction phase: Twice weekly for the first 4 weeks
- Maintenance phase: Weekly or biweekly, depending on response
Monitoring & Safety
- Blood pressure and overall well-being are closely monitored
- Patients must arrange transportation home after treatment
- Spravato is only available through the FDA’s REMS program
Benefits of Spravato Therapy
- Rapid antidepressant effects for many patients
- Effective option when other treatments have failed
- Clinically supervised, evidence-based care
- Often combined with oral antidepressants for optimal outcomes
Comprehensive Q&A: Spravato Treatment
Is Spravato the same as ketamine injections?
No. Spravato is an FDA-approved nasal spray (esketamine), while ketamine injections are typically off-label. Spravato follows strict federal safety guidelines and must be administered in certified clinics.
How quickly does Spravato work?
Some patients experience improvement within the first few treatments, sometimes even after the first session. Individual responses vary.
Is Spravato safe?
Yes, when administered under medical supervision. Common side effects may include dizziness, dissociation, nausea, or increased blood pressure, which typically resolve the same day.
Will I feel “high” or sedated?
Some patients experience temporary dissociation or sedation. These effects are monitored and generally fade within a few hours.
Can I drive after my appointment?
No. Patients must arrange for transportation home after each session.
Is Spravato covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover Spravato for qualifying patients. Our team can assist with insurance verification and prior authorization.
Do I have to stop my current antidepressants?
No. Spravato is usually used in combination with an oral antidepressant, unless otherwise determined by your provider.
How long will I need Spravato treatment?
Treatment duration varies. Some patients continue maintenance therapy, while others taper off after sustained improvement.
Why Choose Northwest Psychiatry & Counseling?
At Northwest Psychiatry & Counseling, we prioritize personalized, compassionate mental health care. Our experienced clinical team ensures that Spravato treatment is delivered safely, ethically, and with your long-term wellness in mind.
We believe that even when depression feels unmanageable, effective options still exist—and you don’t have to navigate them alone.
Contact Information
Northwest Psychiatry & Counseling
📍 Address: 701 N Walton Blvd., Unit 6, Bentonville, AR 72712
📞 Phone (Appointments): 479-855-5704
To learn more about Spravato treatment or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office today.