Designed for those with a high unmet need, SPRAVATO® is a non-competitive, non-selective antagonist of the glutamate receptor NMDA. When used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, it can be an effective tool for some patients who are struggling with depression management. Although it is sometimes referred to as a nasal ketamine treatment, and SPRAVATO and ketamine are chemically related, the two are not the same. SPRAVATO has undergone comprehensive clinical trials that laid the foundation for FDA approval whereas ketamine has not.

SPRAVATO® is only available via REMS-certified programs, like the one at TMS Institute of Arizona, in order to mitigate risks of potentially serious side effects sometimes associated with this medication. This may include sedation and dissociation related to its administration as well as misuse or abuse. As such, it is only given to patients in medically supervised settings.

SPRAVATO® is not dispensed or intended for home use. In trials, 48–61 percent of people experienced sedation due to this treatment, so it is required for patients to have a reliable ride from their in-clinic session. Please note that SPRAVATO has not demonstrated effectiveness in stopping suicide or minimizing suicidal ideation in trials, and using it does not necessarily preclude hospitalization if deemed necessary.

On the day of your treatment, ensure that you have a reliable companion with you. The team under the supervision of Dr. Patel and Dr. Tariot-Beard will administer the treatment and provide medical supervision for at least two hours following your dosage. They will watch for any signs of fatigue, dizziness, dissociation, or changes in vital signs. Even following the two-hour monitoring, patients cannot drive—operating heavy machinery should wait at least one day, and should only follow a restful night’s sleep and someone must be available to drive you home from our center.

SPRAVATO® is not a standalone treatment, but may be a helpful tool for those who are not satisfied with the results of antidepressants alone. If you are struggling with major depressive disorder and think you need more than oral pharmaceutical to manage your depression symptoms, SPRAVATO® might be for you. It is non-invasive and the treatment plan easily fits into busy schedules with a tapering method and if a significant positive response is noted than the medication can be continued long-term. SPRAVATO® is administered in-clinic twice per week for the first month, once per week in the second month, and then just twice per month moving forward as maintenance. Oral antidepressants should continue to be taken during this time.  Furthermore, SPRAVATO® and TMS therapy can work synergistically to result in greater potential improvement in the symptoms of major depressive disorder.

If you are interested in learning more about SPRAVATO® and if it might be for you, get in touch with TMS Institute of Arizona today. We are dedicated to helping our patients find the right treatments and approaches that work for them. Contact us today by calling 480-448-2916 during business hours or, for the quickest response, complete the online contact form right now.