Your Top 5 Questions About Spravato® Answered

Maybe you’ve tried antidepressants that didn’t help enough — or helped for a while, then stopped. Maybe you’re exhausted from the revolving door of medications and wondering if there’s another way. 

At Hudson Specialty Care Spravato, we understand how discouraging that can feel. That’s why we offer Spravato®, an FDA-approved option for adults with treatment-resistant depression, in a setting that’s safe, supportive, and focused on you.

Before starting, most patients have lots of questions. Here are the five we hear most often, answered to help you understand what to expect and what makes Spravato® unique.

1. What’s Spravato®, and how does it work?

That sounds like two questions, but they go hand in hand, so here’s the answer to both. 

Spravato® (esketamine nasal spray) is a prescription medication for adults who haven’t found relief with at least two other antidepressants.

It’s different from standard antidepressants because it targets the brain’s glutamate system, helping reset pathways linked to mood and emotional regulation.

In simpler terms, Spravato® works on a different brain messenger — and that may help some people feel improvement sooner, often within days rather than weeks.

2. Who qualifies for Spravato® treatment?

Spravato® is approved for adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) who haven’t had adequate results from other medications. It’s also an option for those with MDD and acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors, under close supervision.

During your initial consultation, our team reviews your health history, prior medications, and symptoms to see if Spravato® is appropriate. We walk you through the process and answer any questions so you know what to expect.

3. What’s a Spravato® session like?

Your first visit begins with a calm check-in, a review of your vitals, and time to settle in. After administering the nasal spray, you relax in a quiet, comfortable room while we monitor you for at least two hours.

Here’s what that typically includes:

• Time to rest in a private, soothing environment
• Continuous support and monitoring from our clinical staff
• A post-session check to ensure you feel steady before leaving
• A reminder to have a trusted adult drive you home afterward

Some patients report mild dizziness, a floating feeling, or fatigue during treatment. These effects are temporary and part of the reason we monitor you closely until they wear off.

When the session is complete, we discuss how you feel and what to expect next. Many patients leave feeling hopeful — sometimes for the first time in a long while.

4. Are there risks or side effects?

Like all medications, Spravato® can cause side effects, but most are short-lived. Common ones include dizziness, nausea, or mild dissociation, a sense of detachment that fades within hours.

Because of potential side effects, such as increased blood pressure or sedation, Spravato® can only be administered in a certified treatment center. That means every session happens in a safe, supervised environment designed specifically for this therapy.

At Hudson Specialty Care Spravato, your comfort and safety come first. We’re by your side the entire time, adjusting care as needed and making sure you never feel rushed or uncertain.

5. How long will I need Spravato®, and does insurance cover it?

The treatment plan varies by person, but most begin with an induction phase (twice weekly for several weeks) and then transition into a maintenance phase (once weekly or every other week). Your provider tailors the schedule to your progress and goals.

Insurance coverage for Spravato® has grown significantly in recent years. Many major plans now include it for eligible patients. Our team verifies your benefits, manages prior authorization, and walks you through any potential costs before you begin.

We’re here to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible.

Finding hope again

For those who’ve battled depression despite trying multiple medications, Spravato® can open a new path toward healing. We combine cutting-edge treatments with compassionate care because we believe in treating the whole person — not just the symptoms.

If you’re ready to explore whether Spravato® is right for you, call Hudson Specialty Care Spravato today at one of our three New Jersey locations in Cliffside Park, Elizabeth, or Edison, or one of our two New York City offices in Manhattan or Brooklyn. 

You can also request an appointment online.