If you're considering Spravato® for treatment-resistant depression, one of the first questions you may have is: How long are Spravato® treatments? The answer depends on whether you're referring to the length of an individual appointment or the overall treatment program.
While each Spravato® session requires several hours of monitoring, the full treatment process typically occurs over multiple weeks and is customized to each patient's needs.
At Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine®, we help patients throughout Newport Beach, San Juan Capistrano, and Orange County understand what to expect before beginning Spravato® treatment, including scheduling, insurance coverage, and long-term care planning.
What Is Spravato®?
Spravato® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray used in combination with an oral antidepressant for adults with:
- Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Unlike traditional antidepressants that may take weeks to show improvement, Spravato® works differently by targeting glutamate pathways in the brain, offering a novel approach to depression treatment.
Because Spravato® can temporarily affect alertness, perception, and blood pressure, treatment must be administered in a certified healthcare setting under medical supervision.
How Long Does a Spravato® Appointment Take?
Most Spravato® appointments last approximately 2 hours. The appointment generally includes:
Pre-Treatment Check-In
Before treatment begins, your care team will:
- Review symptoms
- Check vital signs
- Confirm treatment readiness
- Address any concerns or questions
Administration of Spravato®
Patients self-administer the nasal spray under medical supervision. The administration process itself usually takes only a few minutes.
Observation and Monitoring Period
After receiving Spravato®, patients remain in the clinic for monitoring. This observation period is required because some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as:
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Dissociation
- Increased blood pressure
- Mild nausea
Most effects gradually improve during the observation period.
Discharge Evaluation
Before leaving, the treatment team ensures you are medically stable and ready to return home. Because of the medication's effects, patients cannot drive themselves home after treatment and should arrange transportation in advance.
Learn More About Spravato®
Contact our office to understand the schedule and find out if Spravato® is the right treatment plan for you.
How Long Is the Full Spravato® Treatment Program?
Spravato® treatment occurs in phases.
Induction Phase (Weeks 1-4)
Most patients receive treatment: Twice per week. This phase is designed to establish an initial therapeutic response.
Maintenance Phase (Weeks 5-8)
Treatment frequency typically decreases to: Once weekly. Your provider monitors symptoms and adjusts treatment as needed.
Ongoing Maintenance
After the initial treatment period, some patients continue treatment:
- Weekly
- Every two weeks
- Based on individual clinical response
Treatment schedules vary depending on symptom improvement and provider recommendations.
Why Does Spravato® Require Monitoring?
Unlike traditional antidepressants taken at home, Spravato® has specific safety requirements established by the FDA. Monitoring allows providers to:
- Assess side effects
- Monitor blood pressure
- Ensure patient safety
- Evaluate treatment response
- Provide supportive care if needed
These requirements are part of the Spravato® Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program.
When Will I Start Feeling Better?
Every patient's experience is different. Some individuals report improvement within the first few weeks of treatment, while others require additional sessions before noticing meaningful changes. Factors that influence response include:
- Severity of depression
- Treatment history
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- Medication adherence
- Overall treatment plan
Spravato® is often most effective when combined with comprehensive psychiatric care and ongoing support.
Is Spravato® Covered by Insurance?
Many patients are surprised to learn that Spravato® may be covered by insurance.
At Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine®, we are in-network with many major insurance providers, including:
- Commercial insurance plans
- Medicare
- Medicare Advantage
- Medi-Cal
Many patients qualify for substantial insurance coverage when medical criteria are met. For some patients with Medi-Cal or Medicare with supplemental coverage, treatment may be available with little or no out-of-pocket cost. Certain Medicare Advantage and commercial plans may also provide full coverage depending on benefits and authorization requirements.
Our team works closely with patients to verify coverage before treatment begins. Read our Spravato Insurance Guide for more details.
The Spravato® Savings Program
For commercially insured patients, the manufacturer's savings program may significantly reduce treatment costs. In some cases, eligible patients may pay as little as $10 per treatment session. For more pricing details, check our Spravato Cost Guide.
Eligibility requirements apply, and our team can help determine whether you qualify for available savings opportunities. Because insurance benefits and assistance programs frequently change, we recommend discussing current options with our staff during your consultation.
What Makes Spravato® Different from Traditional Antidepressants?
Spravato® differs from conventional antidepressants in several important ways.
Different Mechanism of Action
Spravato® targets glutamate pathways, while many antidepressants primarily affect serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine.
In-Office Administration
Treatment occurs under medical supervision rather than at home.
Structured Monitoring
Patients remain under observation after each session.
Option for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Spravato® was specifically developed for patients who have not achieved adequate relief with traditional antidepressants.
Why Choose Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine® for Spravato® Treatment?
Patients throughout Newport Beach and San Juan Capistrano choose Resiliency Mind + Body Medicine® because we provide:
- Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations
- Certified Spravato® treatment services
- Insurance-friendly care
- Assistance with prior authorizations
- Access to manufacturer savings programs
- Medication management
- Personalized treatment planning
- Ongoing psychiatric support
Our goal is to make advanced depression treatment accessible, convenient, and tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Final Thoughts
While each Spravato® appointment typically lasts around two hours, the overall treatment journey extends across several weeks and is individualized based on your progress and clinical needs. Understanding the treatment schedule, monitoring requirements, insurance options, and available savings programs can help you make an informed decision about whether Spravato® is right for you.
For many individuals living with treatment-resistant depression, Spravato® offers a promising option when traditional treatments have not provided adequate relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a Spravato® treatment session?
Most Spravato® appointments last approximately two hours, including administration and observation time.
How often are Spravato® treatments given?
Patients typically receive treatment twice weekly during the first month, followed by weekly or less frequent maintenance treatments.
Can I drive after Spravato® treatment?
No. Patients should arrange transportation because driving is not permitted until the day after treatment and following a restful night's sleep.
Does insurance cover Spravato®?
Many commercial insurance plans, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medi-Cal plans may provide coverage when eligibility criteria are met.
Is there financial assistance for Spravato®?
Yes. Eligible commercially insured patients may qualify for the manufacturer's savings program, which can reduce costs significantly and, in some cases, as low as $10 per treatment session.
How long will I need Spravato® treatment?
Treatment duration varies based on individual response, symptom improvement, and provider recommendations.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If depression continues to impact your daily life despite medication and therapy, it may be time to explore additional treatment options. At Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine, our team can help you determine whether Spravato® is appropriate for your symptoms, review your insurance benefits, and create a personalized treatment plan designed around your goals.
Schedule a consultation today to learn what treatment could look like for you, and whether insurance may cover most or all of the cost.