Esketamine – FAQs
Esketamine is a prescription nasal spray that is administered in our offices under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Esketamine can only be administered in a certified treatment clinic that has medical staff trained to prescribe and dispense esketamine and is Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) certified. Esketamine is FDA-approved and covered by most major insurances.
How can I tell if I’m depressed?
Depression can cause persistent sadness, fatigue, loss of interest, and difficulty concentrating. You may be experiencing depression if you:
- Struggle with low energy, poor sleep, or appetite changes
- Feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or easily agitated
- Withdraw from social interactions or hobbies
- Experience suicidal thoughts or self-harm
If these symptoms impact your daily life, consider taking a Depression Screening and seeking professional support.
What is esketamine, and how does it work?
Esketamine is an FDA-approved nasal spray (Spravato) used for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Unlike traditional antidepressants, which target serotonin, esketamine works by increasing glutamate, improving brain cell communication and mood regulation.
Why esketamine?
- Works faster than antidepressants (effects may begin in hours or days)
- Helps patients who haven’t responded to other medications
- Administered in a clinical setting under medical supervision
Who is esketamine for?
Esketamine is recommended for adults with treatment-resistant depression who have:
- Tried at least two antidepressants without success
- Experienced less than a 50% improvement in symptoms
It is also approved for individuals at risk of suicide.
What does an esketamine treatment session look like?
Esketamine is administered as a nasal spray in a certified clinic.
During a session:
- You self-administer the spray under medical supervision
- You remain at the clinic for two hours for monitoring
- Most patients receive 12 treatments over two months
Because of possible short-term side effects, you’ll need someone to drive you home after each session.
Is esketamine safe, and are there any side effects?
Esketamine is safe when used as directed, but like any medication, it has potential side effects.
Common, short-term side effects:
- Sleepiness or dizziness
- Nausea
- Increased blood pressure
- Temporary dissociation (feeling detached)
These effects usually fade within 1–2 hours. Esketamine carries a low risk of dependence, but regular monitoring by a doctor is required.
How effective is esketamine?
Studies show that esketamine, when combined with an antidepressant:
- Helps 70% of patients experience at least a 50% symptom reduction
- Leads to full remission in 50% of patients
Some patients feel better after just one session, but most see full results after 12 treatments over two months.
Does insurance cover esketamine nasal spray?
Insurance coverage for esketamine is expanding, but approval varies. Our team will work directly with your provider to help secure coverage. We also offer out-of-pocket payment options for those without coverage.