UPDATED on September 16, 2025: The winter season, especially, underscores the persistent, sometimes serious challenges for individuals with depression. A new, highly effective treatment for depression, Spravato® therapy (esketamine), is available to adult patients through Wheeler’s Hartford and Waterbury Family Health & Wellness Centers.
Caring, skilled teams work closely with individuals in a specially designed suite for patients receiving this treatment. Referrals for this treatment are now being accepted from external psychiatric and medical providers. For referral forms and more information, please call our Navigation Center at 860.793.3500.
Spravato® (esketamine) is the first prescription nasal spray that is taken with or without an oral antidepressant to treat adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD)*. This form of depression applies to patients struggling with major depressive disorder who have not responded adequately to two or more antidepressants.
This treatment also is suitable for individuals with major depressive disorder who have suicidal thoughts.
“We are pleased to offer this safe, effective treatment to our patients who might not have otherwise had access,” said Sabrina Trocchi, PhD, MPA, president and chief executive officer, Wheeler. “Depression is a serious issue, but there is hope for individuals who are struggling.”
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*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.