WHAT TO EXPECT
1.
Arrive to your appointment either accompanied by or coordinate pick up with a responsible adult, as you will be unable to drive following treatment.
2.
Plan to be in the clinic for a minimum of 2-hours. Administration of the medication takes only 10-15 minutes, however there is a required 2-hour observation period.
3.
Spravato can increase blood pressure, this is usually transient, however your blood pressure will be checked prior to administration, 40-minutes into treatment, and again at the end of the 2-hour observation period.
4.
You may experience dizziness, sedation, 'disassociation,' or feelings of euphoria after administration.
5.
Treatment is typically scheduled twice a week for 4 weeks, and then weekly for 4 weeks. You and your provider will discuss recommendations for continued treatment following this.
6.
Many people experience improvement in depressive symptoms within 24-hours of their initial treatment.
7.
Some people experience feelings of euphoria following administration of Spravato, this generally decreases after the first couple weeks of treatment, so it is important to keep this in mind regarding expectations of treatment outcomes.
What is Spravato?
Spravato (esketamine) is an intranasal medication for people who have not responded to antidepressants. that is administered in your health care provider's office. Spravato works differently then traditional antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, Tricyclics, etc.) which typically gives individuals rapid relief from depressive symptoms, while they continue treatment with their current antidepressant.
Getting Started
Evaluation
Schedule an assessment with your prescriber to determine if you are a good candidate for Spravato
Medication Order Placement
Once you are enrolled in the REMS program, your provider can place the order for your Spravato that is delivered to the clinic.
Coverage Verification
If you and your provider determine you are a good candidate, he/she will verify insurance coverage
Treatment Scheduling/Preparation
Once the medication has been delivered, you will be contacted to schedule your first appointment
REMS Enrollment
Your provider will send you information on how to enroll in the required REMS (risk evaluation and management program)
Treatment
On the day of your appointment, arrive at the clinic accompanied by a trusted individual who can transport you home following the treatment. Following administration of Spravato, it is required to be monitored in the clinic for two hours.
“SPRAVATO®.” SPRAVATO® (Esketamine), 21 Sept. 2020, www.spravato.com/.