Spravato® (Esketamine) Treatment Program
How the Program Works
Spravato® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray used to treat certain patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), including patients whose depression has not responded adequately to other treatments.
Treatment begins with an initial consultation and evaluation with one of our Nurse Practitioners. During this appointment, the provider will determine whether Spravato® may be an appropriate treatment option and develop an individualized treatment plan.
Insurance & Prior Authorization
Spravato® treatment may be covered by insurance for eligible patients. When a provider recommends Spravato®, our team will work with the patient's insurance company to obtain the required prior authorization.
The authorization process can take several weeks, depending on the patient's insurance company and individual circumstances.
Please note: Our clinic does not submit the office administration portion of Spravato® through the patient's medical insurance benefit. Medication coverage is handled through the patient's pharmacy benefit and the specialty pharmacy approved by their insurance plan.
Medication
Spravato® is obtained through a specialty pharmacy that is approved by and/or contracted with the patient's insurance plan. The medication is shipped directly to our office and stored according to required guidelines.
Medication is dispensed and administered in the office under the supervision of our clinical staff.
Treatment Schedule
The standard Spravato® treatment schedule generally consists of:
Twice weekly treatments for the first 4 weeks
Once weekly treatments for the following 4 weeks
After the initial treatment period, the provider will determine the appropriate ongoing treatment schedule based on the patient's response and clinical needs.
Treatment frequency may be adjusted by the prescribing provider when clinically appropriate.
What to Expect During Treatment
Spravato® is administered as a nasal spray in the office. Patients will remain in a designated treatment area where they can rest comfortably while being monitored by a Medical Assistant or other trained clinical staff.
Patients should plan to remain at the clinic for approximately 2 hours following administration.
During the observation period, staff will monitor the patient for potential side effects and check vital signs, including blood pressure.
Patients must meet the clinic's discharge requirements before leaving the office, including having an acceptable blood pressure and completing all required REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) monitoring questions and documentation.
Important Patient Requirements
Because Spravato® may cause temporary effects such as dizziness, sedation, dissociation, or changes in blood pressure:
Patients must arrange transportation home after treatment.
Patients should not drive or operate machinery until the following day after a restful night's sleep, or as otherwise directed by their healthcare provider.
Patients should follow all pre-treatment instructions provided by the clinic.
Patients must remain in the clinic for the required monitoring period.
Treatment must be administered in accordance with Spravato® REMS requirements.
Patient Education & Support
Before beginning treatment, patients will receive education regarding the medication, treatment expectations, potential side effects, safety requirements, and clinic policies.
Our clinical team will monitor patients throughout each treatment and communicate with the prescribing provider regarding treatment response, concerns, and any significant changes.
Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and structured treatment environment while helping each patient work toward improved mental health and quality of life.
