


What is Spravato?
Spravato® (esketamine) is a prescription derivative of Ketamine nasal spray that is FDA-approved to treat depression. When used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, Spravato can provide relief from treatment resistant major depression and depression with suicidal thoughts. It is administered in a healthcare clinic as it is a Schedule III controlled substance.
Who Could benefit from Spravato?
It is approved for adults with major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions or those who have been resistant to oral anti depressants. Spravato is not approved for use by children. You should not use Spravato if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, have a history of substance abuse, including alcoholism, blood vessel disease or a history of bleeding in the brain, uncontrolled hypertension, or other medical contraindications.
How Spravato treatments are administered
Spravato treatment varies based on an individual’s specific needs, but generally, the treatment includes giving yourself 2-3 doses of the nasal spray, spaced about 5 minutes apart, under medical supervision in a medical clinic.
Each treatment session lasts approximately two hours, during which you are monitored in a comfortable and secure setting. Due to the possible side effects of the treatment, you are not permitted to drive yourself home afterwards; you must be signed out and picked up by a friend, family member, or ride share service.
Is Spravato covered by insurance?
Spravato treatments are often covered by health insurance after obtaining prior authorization. Prior authorization for Spravato can take up to 4-6 weeks depending on the insurance and may require several applications before approval is given. For those without insurance there are other resources that may be able to help with out-of-pocket medication costs. Our office will work with your insurance to get authorization. You can also visit Spravato’s website to learn about the copay assistance program.
For more information regarding Spravato or to see if you are a candidate please call our office manager Michelle at 385.424.8465 to schedule an appointment with Tonya Hood.