Spravato® (esketamine)

We offer Spravato®, a new and highly effective treatment for depression at our Hartford and Waterbury locations. Our patients are treated in a specially designed suite devoted specifically for patients receiving this treatment.

For the treatment of adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD)*, Spravato can be taken either with or without an oral antidepressant. However, the use of an oral antidepressant is still required for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD)** who have acute suicidal thoughts or actions. 

*  Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
Monotherapy or combination: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Spravato for TRD to be used either alone (monotherapy) or with an oral antidepressant. This update provides more flexibility in the treatment approach. 

**  Major depressive disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation
Combination therapy required: If Spravato is prescribed to treat depressive symptoms in adults with MDD and acute suicidal thoughts or actions, it must be taken in conjunction with a newly initiated or optimized oral antidepressant. 

On treatment days, patients administer Spravato® nasal spray under the guidance and supervision of a physician at our Family Health & Wellness Center.

After administering Spravato®, there is an observation period of approximately two hours, during which patients relax and rest in the privacy of individual treatment rooms, while being monitored for rare, potential side effects. 

Due to the rare, though potential, side effects that may occur, primarily drowsiness or a mild elevation in blood pressure in the early part of treatment, patients receiving Spravato® therapy will utilize Veyo, Uber Health, or other transportation after each treatment, not drive themselves. Transportation is provided to all patients.

Side effects may last up to 24 hours, resolving completely with restful sleep. Most patients experience little or no fatigue.