Spravato® (Esketamine) at Nexus Psychiatry: A Breakthrough for Treatment-Resistant Depression
When traditional antidepressants aren't enough, don't lose hope. Discover FDA-approved relief at our certified Spravato® treatment center in Houston.
The Problem
Is Your Depression Resistant to Treatment?
For many patients, standard oral antidepressants simply do not provide enough relief. If you have tried two or more antidepressants without success, you may have Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD).
You are not alone. Studies show that up to one-third of individuals with major depressive disorder do not respond to traditional medication. At Nexus Psychiatry, we understand the frustration of cycling through prescriptions that don’t work. We are proud to offer a different approach.
The Solution
What is Spravato® (Esketamine)?
Spravato® is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray, used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for adults with:
- Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
- Depressive symptoms in adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
How It Works
Unlike traditional antidepressants (SSRIs) that primarily target serotonin, Spravato® targets the NMDA receptor and glutamate, the most abundant chemical messenger in the brain.
This unique mechanism helps restore synaptic connections between brain cells, potentially offering relief where other treatments have failed.
The Process
Your Spravato Journey at Nexus Psychiatry
Because Spravato® can cause side effects like sedation and dissociation, it is only available at certified healthcare settings like our Houston office.
Step 1: The Consultation
Your journey begins with an evaluation by Dr. Mann. We will review your medical history to ensure Spravato® is a safe and appropriate option for you.
Step 2: Administration (In-Office)
You will administer the nasal spray yourself under the direct supervision of our healthcare staff in the comfort of our office. You do not take the medication at home.
Step 3: The Observation Window
After administration, you will rest in our comfortable treatment area for at least two hours. During this time, our team will monitor your blood pressure and ensure you are feeling well.
Step 4: Heading Home
Safety Requirement: You cannot drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful sleep. You must arrange for a friend, family member, or rideshare service to drive you home from your appointment.
Insurance & Cost
Is Spravato® Covered by Insurance?
Yes. Unlike generic ketamine infusions which are often paid out-of-pocket, Spravato® is FDA-approved and covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare, for eligible diagnoses.
Spravato with Me Savings Program
We are committed to making care accessible. Commercially insured patients may be eligible for the Spravato with Me savings program, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs to as little as $10 per treatment. Our staff will assist you in verifying your benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Spravato® work?
While oral antidepressants can take weeks to build up in your system, some patients taking Spravato® may experience a reduction in depressive symptoms in as little as 24 hours to 4 weeks.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects include dissociation (feeling disconnected from yourself or your surroundings), dizziness, nausea, sedation, vertigo, anxiety, and increased blood pressure. These side effects usually peak shortly after dosing and resolve the same day.
Can I take Spravato® while pregnant?
No. Spravato® may cause fetal harm. You should not take Spravato® if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Is Nexus Psychiatry a certified REMS center?
Yes. Because of the risks of serious adverse outcomes, Spravato® is only available through a restricted program called the Spravato REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy). Nexus Psychiatry is fully certified to administer this treatment in Houston.
Mandatory Safety Block
Important Safety Information
Warning: Sedation; Dissociation; Abuse and Misuse; and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors
- Sedation and Dissociation: Spravato® may cause sleepiness (sedation), fainting, dizziness, spinning sensation, anxiety, or feeling disconnected from yourself, your thoughts, feelings, space, and time (dissociation). Patients must be monitored by a healthcare provider for at least 2 hours at each treatment session.
- Abuse and Misuse: Spravato® is a Schedule III controlled substance and has the potential to be abused and misused.
- Respiratory Depression: Breathing problems (respiratory depression) have been observed with Spravato®.
- Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term studies. Closely monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and Spravato® is not approved for use in children.
SPRAVATO® REMS: Because of the risks for sedation, dissociation, respiratory depression, and abuse and misuse, Spravato® is available only through a restricted program called the SPRAVATO® Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS).
Contraindications: Do not take Spravato® if you have aneurysmal vascular disease (including in the brain, chest, abdominal aorta, arms, and legs), an arteriovenous malformation, or a history of bleeding in the brain.
Please see full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for Spravato®.