Spravato Side Effects
Understanding potential side effects helps you prepare for treatment. Most effects are temporary and monitored closely during your 2-hour observation period.
Your Safety is Our Priority
Spravato is only administered at certified healthcare facilities with trained staff. We monitor your vital signs and wellbeing throughout each session. While side effects can occur, they are typically mild to moderate and temporary. Our team is prepared to manage any reactions that may arise.
Common Side Effects
These effects are expected and temporary—they're why we monitor you for 2 hours
Dissociation
61-75% of patientsFeeling disconnected from yourself, your thoughts, or your surroundings. Often described as dreamlike or floaty.
Dizziness
20-29% of patientsLightheadedness or feeling unsteady. Usually mild to moderate in intensity.
Nausea
22-28% of patientsStomach discomfort or queasiness. Can be managed with anti-nausea medication if needed.
Sedation/Drowsiness
13-23% of patientsFeeling sleepy or less alert. This is why driving is not permitted after treatment.
Increased Blood Pressure
8-17% of patientsTemporary elevation in blood pressure, closely monitored during each session.
Perceptual Changes
10-22% of patientsAltered perception of time, colors, sounds, or surroundings.
Understanding Dissociation
The most common Spravato effect explained
Dissociation is the most frequently reported effect of Spravato, occurring in up to 75% of patients during the first treatments (often decreasing with subsequent sessions). It's important to understand that this is an expected part of how the medication works—not a dangerous side effect.
Patients often describe dissociation as:
Good to Know
Many patients find dissociation unusual but not unpleasant. Some describe it as a relaxing break from their usual anxious or depressive thoughts. The effect typically peaks around 40 minutes after administration and resolves before you leave our office.
Less Common Side Effects
Reported in 5-15% of patients:
- Anxiety or panic
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Numbness or tingling
- Feeling drunk
- Tremor
- Blurred vision
- Euphoria
- Difficulty speaking
- Mental impairment
Serious Side Effects (Rare)
While rare, seek immediate help if you experience:
- Severe increase in blood pressure
- Severe anxiety or panic attack
- Thoughts of self-harm (during or after treatment)
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Severe confusion or agitation
Our team monitors for these effects during your session and is trained to respond immediately if they occur.
How We Keep You Safe
Comprehensive safety protocols during every treatment session
Blood Pressure Monitoring
Checked before treatment, at 40 minutes, and at 2 hours
Medical Staff Present
Trained healthcare providers available throughout your session
2-Hour Observation
Required monitoring period after each treatment
Clearance Protocol
Assessment before you're cleared to leave
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the side effects get worse with repeated treatments?
No—research shows that side effects often decrease with repeated treatments as your body becomes accustomed to the medication. Dissociation, in particular, tends to be most intense during initial sessions.
Can I drive home after side effects resolve?
No. Even if you feel completely normal, you cannot drive until the next day after a good night's sleep. This is a safety requirement because subtle cognitive effects may persist even when you feel fine.
Is Spravato addictive?
While esketamine has potential for misuse, the risk is very low in the supervised clinical setting. You never take the medication home, and it's only administered by healthcare providers. Studies have not shown significant abuse or dependence with Spravato when used as prescribed.
What if I don't like how the medication makes me feel?
Talk to your provider. Some patients experience anxiety during their first treatment but tolerate it well afterward. We can also adjust the dose or provide anti-anxiety medication to help you feel more comfortable.
Are there long-term side effects of Spravato?
Long-term studies are ongoing, but current evidence suggests Spravato is safe for ongoing use. Some studies have examined bladder and cognitive effects; so far, these haven't been significant concerns at therapeutic doses.
Told Spravato Isn't Covered? Give Us a Chance.
We specialize in obtaining Spravato coverage when other clinics couldn't. Whether you have commercial insurance, marketplace plans, Medicare, Medicaid, or other coverage—we very likely can figure it out.
Have Questions About Spravato Safety?
Our experienced team is here to address any concerns. Schedule a consultation to discuss whether Spravato is right for you.
Next Step Psychiatry • Lilburn, GA