What Is Spravato and How Is It Different from Other Depression Treatments?

For many people living with depression, treatment can be life-changing. Therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches are often prescribed to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. But for some, relief is harder to find. Even after trying multiple antidepressants, depression may continue to affect work, relationships, and everyday activities.

If this sounds familiar, you may have come across Spravato® (esketamine) while exploring other treatment options. Naturally, this raises questions: How is it different from traditional antidepressants? Who is it designed for? Could it be an option for me?

Understanding how Spravato works and how it can complement your depression treatment can help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider.

What Is Spravato?

Spravato is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray that is used alongside an oral antidepressant to treat adults with treatment-resistant depression. It may also be appropriate in certain cases of major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors, as determined by a qualified healthcare provider.

Unlike medications that patients take at home, Spravato is administered only in a certified healthcare setting. Because it is available through the FDA's Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) program, patients remain at the treatment center for monitoring after each treatment session before returning home.

This process helps ensure that treatment is delivered safely while giving patients access to clinical support throughout each visit.

If you would like to learn more about the depression treatment options available at Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness, visit our Mental Health Services page:

How Does Spravato Work?

Most traditional antidepressants work by affecting neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine. While these medications are effective for many people, they often take several weeks before noticeable improvements occur.

Spravato works differently.

Rather than primarily targeting serotonin, it acts on the brain's glutamate system, which plays an important role in communication between nerve cells. Researchers believe this mechanism may help strengthen neural connections involved in mood regulation and cognitive functioning.

Although researchers continue to study exactly how this process contributes to symptom improvement, the important takeaway for patients is that Spravato offers a different treatment pathway for people whose depression has not responded adequately to conventional approaches.

Every person's experience is unique, and treatment outcomes vary. What works well for one individual may not be the best approach for another, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is an important part of determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

Spravato vs. Traditional Depression Treatments

Every person going through depression is unique, and so should be the treatment. There is no one-size-fits-all, and many people benefit from combining different forms of care.

Traditional Antidepressants

Antidepressant medications are often considered a first-line treatment for depression. They have helped millions of people manage symptoms and continue to play an important role in depression care.

However, these medications may take several weeks to reach their full effect, and some individuals continue to experience symptoms despite trying multiple medications.

Therapy

Psychotherapy helps individuals better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while developing healthy coping strategies. Depending on a person's needs, therapy may be used on its own or alongside medication.

For many people, combining therapy with medication provides a more comprehensive approach to treatment.

Spravato

Spravato is generally considered when depression has not improved sufficiently after trying other antidepressant medications.

Unlike medications taken at home, treatment is administered in a certified healthcare setting and includes observation after each session. It is not intended to replace other aspects of mental health care but to become part of a broader, individualized treatment plan that may also include therapy, medication management, and ongoing psychiatric care.

At Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness, we design a custom treatment plan for every person based on their unique symptoms, history, and goals, ensuring that care remains personalized rather than standardized.

Who May Be a Candidate for Spravato?

Spravato is not appropriate for everyone. This is why a thorough evaluation is an important first step.

Your provider will consider factors such as:

-        Your current symptoms

-        Previous depression treatments

-        Medical and psychiatric history

-        Current medications

-        Overall treatment goals

The goal is not simply to determine whether you qualify for a specific treatment. Instead, it is to identify the approach that is most likely to support your overall well-being.

What to Expect During Treatment

Beginning any new treatment can feel uncertain, especially if your previous treatments have not provided the relief you hoped for. Knowing what to expect can make the experience feel more manageable.

Treatment typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether Spravato is an appropriate option. If recommended, treatment sessions take place in a certified healthcare setting where the medication is administered under clinical supervision.

Following each session, patients remain at the clinic for observation before returning home. Throughout treatment, providers monitor progress and make recommendations based on how symptoms change over time.

Finding the Right Treatment for Depression

Living with depression can feel isolating, more so when previous treatments have not worked as expected. But needing a different approach does not mean you have run out of options.

The most effective depression treatment is the one that fits your unique needs, symptoms, and goals. Whether that involves therapy, medication, Spravato, or a combination of treatments, the focus should always be on having a personalized plan that supports long-term well-being.

Take the Next Step Toward Personalized Care

We understand that deciding on a new treatment can feel like a significant step. But you are not alone. Our team of experienced mental health professionals takes the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and develop individualized treatment recommendations based on your unique situation.

If you are living with treatment-resistant depression or would like to learn more about whether Spravato might be right for you, contact us to schedule a consultation. Together, we can explore your options and help you move toward a treatment plan that supports lasting progress.