Spravato® (Esketamine) Treatment for Treatment-Resistant Depression
FDA-approved breakthrough therapy offering rapid relief when traditional antidepressants fail
Are you struggling with depression that hasn't responded to traditional antidepressants? Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray offers breakthrough relief for treatment-resistant depression. At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, GA, we're a certified Spravato® treatment center providing this FDA-approved therapy under expert medical supervision. Unlike conventional antidepressants that can take weeks to work, many patients experience rapid symptom improvement with Spravato®—often within hours or days of their first treatment.
What Is Spravato® (Esketamine)?
Spravato® is a prescription nasal spray derived from ketamine that works differently from conventional antidepressants:
Different Mechanism
Targets the glutamate system (NMDA receptors) rather than serotonin
Rapid Relief
Can provide symptom improvement within hours or days
FDA-Approved
Specifically approved for treatment-resistant depression
Neural Restoration
Helps restore neural connections damaged by depression
How Spravato® Works
Traditional antidepressants target serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine. Spravato® works through the glutamate pathway—the brain's most abundant neurotransmitter system. This different mechanism means:
- ✓Patients who failed other antidepressants may respond to Spravato®
- ✓Effects can occur much faster than traditional medications
- ✓Promotes formation of new neural connections
- ✓Repairs damage caused by chronic depression
Clinical Evidence
- 27.1% remission rate at 8 weeks (vs. 17.6% for quetiapine)
- 50% of patients notice improvement within 24-48 hours
- 21.7% sustained remission through 32 weeks
Who Can Benefit from Spravato® Treatment?
Spravato® is FDA-approved for:
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
Depression that hasn't responded adequately to at least two different antidepressant trials at appropriate doses and durations.
Major Depressive Disorder with Suicidal Ideation
When used alongside oral antidepressants, Spravato® provides rapid relief for individuals experiencing acute suicidal thoughts.
The Spravato® Treatment Process
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
Our psychiatric specialists conduct thorough assessments to determine if Spravato® is appropriate for your condition, reviewing depression history, previous treatments, and current symptoms.
2. Supervised Treatment Sessions
Each session lasts approximately 2 hours:
- • Self-administration of the nasal spray under medical guidance
- • Monitoring period in our comfortable treatment room
- • Vital sign tracking to ensure safety and wellbeing
3. Personalized Treatment Plan
- • Induction phase: Twice weekly for 4 weeks
- • Maintenance phase: Weekly or bi-weekly sessions
- • Ongoing adjustments based on your response
Why Choose Next Step Psychiatry for Spravato®?
Board-Certified Providers
Experienced in treatment-resistant depression
Certified REMS Facility
Meeting all FDA safety requirements
Insurance Assistance
For Medicare and commercial plans
Convenient Location
Serving Greater Atlanta from Lilburn
Comprehensive Care
Including therapy and medication management
What to Expect: Spravato® Side Effects
Common, temporary side effects include:
• Dizziness or dissociation (feeling detached)
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Increased blood pressure (monitored closely)
Our experienced team monitors you throughout each session to manage side effects and ensure comfort.
Insurance Coverage for Spravato®
Most insurance plans cover Spravato® treatment, including:
- •Medicare Part B
- •Commercial insurance (Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, UnitedHealthcare)
- •Georgia Medicaid (with prior authorization)
Our dedicated staff assists with insurance verification, prior authorization, and maximizing your benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Spravato® work?
Many patients report mood improvements within 24-48 hours, though full benefits typically develop over 4 weeks.
Do I need a referral?
Requirements vary by insurance. Some plans require psychiatric referral; others allow direct appointment scheduling.
Can I drive myself home?
No. Due to potential sedation and dissociation effects, you must have a responsible adult drive you home after each session.
How long will I need treatment?
Variable. Some patients need 3-6 months; others benefit from ongoing maintenance sessions every 2-4 weeks.
Related Services
Told Spravato Isn't Covered? Give Us a Chance.
Many patients come to us after being told by other clinics that Spravato isn't covered by their insurance, that the cost is too high, or that their coverage is "too complicated" to figure out. We specialize in solving these exact problems.
Other Clinic Said No?
We've helped countless patients get approved after being denied elsewhere.
Cost Too High?
Our team navigates complex coverage to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
Complicated Coverage?
We're experts at working with prior authorizations and appeals.
Schedule Your Spravato® Consultation
If you're living with treatment-resistant depression, contact Next Step Psychiatry today
4145 Lawrenceville Hwy STE 100, Lilburn, GA 30047