Spravato® (esketamine) Nasal Spray
Are you struggling with treatment-resistant conditions such as treatment resistant depression or depression with suicidal thoughts? Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray at Iowa Ketamine Clinic might help when other treatments haven't worked.
What is Spravato® Nasal Spray?
Spravato® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and for depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior. Unlike traditional antidepressants, Spravato® works quickly, often bringing relief within 24 hours.
Spravato® is different from IV ketamine because:
- It's FDA-approved specifically for depression (IV ketamine is used off-label)
- It's covered by many insurance plans (to include Medicare and Iowa Medicaid programs)
- It's a nasal spray instead of an IV treatment
- It's only available at certified treatment centers under medical supervision
How Spravato® Works
Spravato® contains esketamine, a form of ketamine that works differently from standard antidepressants:
- Acts as an NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonist - a novel mechanism different from other antidepressants
- Targets the brain chemical glutamate, which helps brain cells communicate
- Helps repair and create new connections between brain cells
- Works faster than traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks
- May provide relief from depression symptoms when other medications haven't worked
Benefits of Spravato® Nasal Spray
Rapid Relief
Spravato® is the first approved antidepressant shown to reduce depressive symptoms within 2-3 weeks, unlike traditional antidepressants that can take up to two months (8 weeks).
Novel Mechanism
Spravato® works differently than standard antidepressants, offering hope for people who haven't responded to other treatments.
FDA-Approved
Spravato® is FDA-approved specifically for treatment-resistant depression and for depressive symptoms in adults with MDD with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
Insurance Coverage
Unlike IV ketamine, Spravato® is covered by many insurance plans, making this treatment more affordable for many patients.
Supervised in a Safe Environment
Each treatment is done in our clinic under medical supervision with a comprehensive Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) to ensure your safety.
Who Can Benefit from Spravato®?
Spravato® may help adults who:
- Have treatment-resistant depression (depression that hasn't improved with at least two different antidepressants at adequate doses and duration)
- Are currently experiencing major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation or behavior
- Need faster relief from depression symptoms than traditional antidepressants can provide
Important note: While Spravato® can reduce depressive symptoms quickly in people with suicidal thoughts, it has not been shown to prevent suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Frequently Asked Questions About IV Ketamine Therapy
Don't see your question? Just give us a call at (515) 401-4774. We're happy to discuss any concerns or questions you might have.
Ready to Take the First Step?
We'd love to hear from you
Taking the first step is often the hardest part—and we honor the courage it takes to reach out. When you're ready, we're here to help guide you through the referral process and answer any questions you might have about both IV ketamine therapy and Spravato® treatment options.
Speak with your current mental healthcare provider about ketamine therapy
Request a referral to Iowa Ketamine Clinic
Once we receive your referral, we'll contact you to schedule your consultation
If your provider has questions about our treatment protocols or referral process for either therapy option, we're happy to speak with them directly.