Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray treatment

Why esketamine at Florida TMS Clinic?

• Fast: esketamine works faster than other antidepressant medications. Many patients start feeling better after the first treatment.
• FDA-approved: esketamine, or Spravato®, is the only ketamine product approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression.
• Covered by insurance: esketamine is covered by many insurance plans. We are in network with many insurance plans in Tampa, Florida.

Esketamine depression treatment in Wesley Chapel and Tampa, Florida

Residents of Wesley Chapel and Tampa experiencing depression can find support at our clinic, staffed with friendly and highly skilled providers. We offer an alternative to conventional treatments that may prove ineffective or insufficient for people facing mental health challenges like yours.

S-ketamine therapy consists of a series of small doses delivered through nasal spray. Clinical studies have demonstrated that S-ketamine is effective for depression when used alongside an antidepressant. While this anesthetic has been used by medical professionals for decades, its mental health applications were uncovered during research into its impact on moods and emotions.

S-ketamine is a medication that begins to work quickly. It interacts with NMDA receptors in your brain, enhancing glutamate activity and transmitting signals to other cells, which supports improved mood regulation.

The advantages of esketamine therapy

S-ketamine offers significant benefits for many people struggling with depression, as it can ease symptoms within hours rather than weeks. Its rapid action often leads to relief after just one session. However, this does not replace the need for ongoing support from a psychiatrist or psychologist.

It is important to note that predicting an individual's response to S-ketamine therapy is not feasible. The effects may not be enduring, and additional treatments are likely necessary. While conditions such as PTSD and anxiety may also improve with ketamine products, esketamine is currently only FDA-approved for Major Depressive Disorder.

S-ketamine represents a crucial alternative for treating depression. If you are experiencing depression and have yet to find relief with traditional medications, it may be worthwhile to explore S-ketamine therapy. Residents in and around the Tampa area are encouraged to contact us for a comprehensive evaluation.

What can you expect from the Spravato® process?

During your treatment at our office, you will be seated comfortably in a reclining chair while we administer the therapy. Some patients may encounter mild side effects, including feelings of detachment, a floating sensation, or a temporary alteration in their perception of reality and time. These experiences are fleeting and diminish as the treatment concludes.

After each session, we recommend that you rest until any potential side effects have dissipated. For your safety, we always require that a family member or friend accompany you home.

Benefits of esketamine treatment

• FDA approval: esketamine has been rigorously tested and received FDA approval for treating depression.
• Insurance coverage: many insurance providers cover esketamine treatment, making it a viable option without the burden of high out-of-pocket costs.
• Rapid relief: patients often experience significant improvements in their symptoms within hours of treatment.

How many treatments are needed?

To achieve the desired results, a series of nasal treatments are needed. The protocol consists of twice-weekly appointments for 4 weeks, followed by weekly appointments for 4 weeks. Additional maintenance treatments may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you are in immediate crisis, call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911.

Spravato® compared with IV ketamine

Spravato® is the nasal spray form of esketamine, the S-form of ketamine, and it was FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression in 2019. IV ketamine is a mixture of two forms that is used off-label for depression. Spravato® is given only in certified healthcare settings, and you are monitored for at least two hours after each dose.

Spravato® and TMS

Because we offer both treatments, you do not have to choose blindly. If TMS has not given enough relief, or depression returns soon after a TMS course, Spravato® is a common next step, and the reverse can also apply. There is some research on combining TMS with ketamine, but much less on pairing it with Spravato®, so we decide together, case by case.

A patient's story

“When you’re depressed, you forget about the little things you used to enjoy. I’m catching up on all that now.”

“Having my depression symptoms improve after a lifetime of struggle has been amazing. Today, I’m leading a class in mental health, working in my greenhouse and spending time at the beach with my dog, Oshi.”

Robin is a real patient with treatment-resistant depression and has been compensated for her time and testimonial by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. One patient's experience; results vary.

Frequently asked questions