What is Spravato?
Spravato, also known as Esketamine, is the only FDA approved medication administered intra-nasally for adults with treatment-resistant depression. It can be taken with, or without an oral antidepressant.
Why choose Spravato?
Spravato is different because it targets glutamate, which clinical studies suggest glutamate transmission is abnormally regulated in multiple areas of the brain of individuals with depression.
How often is each treatment?
Treatments are two times a week for four weeks, then one time a week for four weeks, then maintenance, as clinically determined.
How long is each treatment?
Each treatment is a minimum of 2 hours, which involves continuous monitoring to ensure the patient has no side effects.
What does Spravato treatment feel like?
Some patients report a dreamy, drowsy feeling or falling asleep. Some patients report no changes at all. Spravato does not produce the same effects as Ketamine.
To qualify for Spravato, the individual must have the following:
A DSM-V diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) that is either treatment resistant, or with acute suicidal ideation.
Shown an inadequate response to two or more oral antidepressants.
Internal Referrals: For clients currently receiving services at BNC, a referral should be submitted via the internal referral system in SmartCare. Referrals for clients not currently in Med Services must have a medication evaluation prior to beginning treatment.
External Referrals: Referrals submitted to BNC from external providers will be processed immediately upon receipt to verify the individual qualifies for treatment, and insurance will cover the cost of medication. Once verified, the individual must have an intake and medication evaluation completed prior to beginning treatment.
For questions, please contact the BNC Nursing Staff at medicalteamnursingstaff@bertnash.org
