SPRAVATO FAQ, KEY QUESTIONS
Is Spravato the same as ketamine?+
No. Spravato contains esketamine; IV ketamine generally uses racemic ketamine.
Is Spravato FDA-approved for depression?+
Yes, for specific adult indications.
Is CNY Psychiatry simply administering Spravato and observing me?+
No. Every treatment includes a psychiatric visit.
Why do I stay for two hours?+
The REMS requires at least two hours of monitoring after administration.
Do I need to dissociate?+
No. Dissociation is not our treatment objective.
What is the usual schedule?+
Generally twice weekly for four weeks, then weekly during weeks 5–8, and weekly or every other week beginning at week 9 according to clinical need.
Will I need Spravato indefinitely?+
Not necessarily. Maintenance is individualized.
Can I eat or drink beforehand?+
Patients are generally instructed to avoid food for at least two hours and liquids for at least 30 minutes before treatment; the office provides specific instructions.
What about nasal sprays?+
Nasal corticosteroids or decongestants used on treatment day are generally administered at least one hour beforehand according to prescribing guidance.
Why is blood pressure checked?+
Spravato can temporarily increase blood pressure; appropriate vital signs and respiratory monitoring are part of treatment.
Can I drive myself home?+
No. Patients cannot drive themselves home after a Spravato treatment. Arrange for a caregiver or family member to drive you home. Do not drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful sleep.
Can I use Spravato at home?+
No. It must be administered in a REMS-certified healthcare setting.
Can Spravato be addictive?+
Esketamine is a controlled substance with abuse and misuse potential.
Does insurance cover Spravato?+
Often, when medical-necessity requirements are met. IV ketamine at CNY Psychiatry is self-pay and not covered by insurance.
Which is better, Spravato or IV ketamine?+
Neither is automatically better; the choice is individualized.
What about TMS instead?+
TMS, Spravato, and IV ketamine are different treatments. The useful question is which treatment makes the most sense for the individual patient.
Do I need to transfer my psychiatric care?+
No.
What is the first step?+
A psychiatric consultation.