If you’ve been living with depression and antidepressants haven’t given you the relief you hoped for, you may have heard of SPRAVATO® (esketamine) as another type of treatment. Maybe a doctor mentioned it, or you came across it during your own research, but you’re still not quite sure what it is or whether it could be right for you. Understanding what SPRAVATO® (esketamine) actually is and who it’s meant for can be a helpful place to start.

What Is SPRAVATO® (esketamine)?

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is a prescription nasal spray usually used alongside a traditional oral antidepressant. It’s been FDA-approved for adults with depression who haven’t experienced enough relief from standard medications.

One of the main differences is in how SPRAVATO® (esketamine) works. Unlike antidepressants, which normally target neurotransmitters such as serotonin and take several weeks to show results, SPRAVATO® (esketamine) works through a different pathway designed to help the brain form healthier connections that are often underactive in depression.

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is taken in our clinic under medical supervision, followed by a period of monitoring in the clinic. Because of this monitoring requirement, SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is never taken at home and is only provided through certified clinics like ours.

Who Is SPRAVATO® (esketamine) Typically For?

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is usually suggested for those with major depressive disorder who haven’t responded well to traditional treatments. You might hear this referred to as treatment-resistant depression, but this term can sound confusing or discouraging. In simple terms, it usually means:

• You’ve tried more than one antidepressant.
• Doses were adjusted or medications were switched.
• You gave each medication time to work.
• You didn’t see meaningful improvement or improvement didn’t last.

If this sounds like you, this is more common than you’d think, and it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Many people respond differently to medications, and depression can be very complex. SPRAVATO® (esketamine) was developed specifically for those who haven’t responded to standard approaches.

What “Eligibility” Really Means

If you’re trying to figure out whether you’re eligible for SPRAVATO® (esketamine), it’s important to understand that eligibility for SPRAVATO® (esketamine) isn’t determined by checking boxes online or deciding on your own that you don’t qualify.

At Deep Centered, eligibility is determined by a consultation with a psychiatrist. During that conversation you will discuss your history, symptoms, what you’ve tried, how you’ve responded, and how you feel about next steps. There is absolutely no pressure to commit to treatment during this visit. It’s simply a time to ask questions, share concerns, and figure out if SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is something that would be a good fit for you.

So many people rule themselves out before even having that conversation. We want to make sure you don’t do that.

It’s Normal to Feel Hesitant

For some people, SPRAVATO® (esketamine) can feel like a big leap. If you’ve spent years trying different medications, the idea of something that’s described as “psychedelic-adjacent” might sound uncomfortable or even scary to you. You might think, “this doesn’t seem like me.” I’m not the kind of person who would try something like this. Is this too extreme?

These reactions are very common, especially among those who think of themselves as practical, grounded, or cautious by nature. It may help to know that SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is not an experimental or recreational experience. It’s an FDA-approved treatment given in a controlled setting with our clinicians present the whole time. Sessions always follow a clear and structured process, and you have support every step of the way.

What’s the Next Step?

If you’re curious about SPRAVATO® (esketamine), whether you’re unsure or have mixed feelings, the next step is simply a conversation. A consultation at Deep Centered in Austin is not a commitment to treatment. It’s an opportunity to have an in-depth discussion to talk through your experience, ask questions, and understand whether SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is appropriate for you.

Many people find comfort in simply having a conversation with a psychiatrist who understands treatment-resistant depression. Whether SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is the right fit or not, you’ll have more clarity and a better understanding of your options moving forward.

If you’re feeling stuck and unsure about what to do next, a consultation can be a helpful place to start.

You can visit https://deepcentered.com/spravato or call 512-894-9598 to schedule a consultation anytime.