--- title: How Spravato® Is Used to Treat Depression date: 2026-09-18T13:00:57Z modified: 2026-10-13T17:16:23Z permalink: "https://lightheartassociates.com/psychology-blog/what-to-know-about-spravato-nasal-spray-to-treat-depression/" type: post status: publish excerpt: "" wpid: 3911 categories: - Care We Provide - Depression - Mental Health Services - Spravato Treatment tags: - Care We Provide - Depression - Mental Health Services - Spravato Treatment - depression treatment - spravato nasal spray - spravato treatment featured_image: "https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/What-To-Know-About-Spravato-Nasal-Spray-To-Treat-Depression.jpeg" featured_image_alt: patient sitting on couch asks her therapist what is spravato used for timestamp: 2026-10-13T17:16:23Z --- If you’ve been experiencing depression symptoms and haven’t found relief through traditional treatments, you’re not out of options. It’s common for people with depression to feel frustrated when medications or therapies don’t make a difference. Fortunately, newer alternatives like Spravato® nasal spray may provide the lasting, life-changing relief you’re looking for. [Spravato® treatment](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/spravato-treatment-program.md) has gained attention for its unique approach to [treating depression](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/depression-treatment-program.md), particularly for those whose depressive symptoms haven’t improved with other treatments. ## What Is Spravato®? Spravato® is the brand name for esketamine, a prescription nasal spray developed specifically for adults with [difficult-to-treat depression](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/post/what-is-treatment-resistant-depression.md). This treatment has been designed for people who haven’t found relief through other treatments, working differently from traditional antidepressants. While most antidepressants target serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine, Spravato® works on the brain’s glutamate system, helping form new connections in brain pathways that regulate mood and energy. Spravato® helps treat depression by improving activity in underactive areas of the brain, which may provide relief within hours or days for many clients, unlike the weeks-long process of most antidepressants. The nasal spray allows the medication to be absorbed quickly through the bloodstream. It’s important to note that Spravato® is not a replacement for existing antidepressants. It’s typically used alongside an oral antidepressant and is provided under the supervision of a healthcare provider to offer safety throughout the process. ## How Effective Is Spravato® for Hard-to-Treat Depression? Spravato® has shown promising results for adults living with difficult-to-treat depression who haven’t found relief from traditional medication. Many clients experience noticeable improvements in depressive symptoms, energy, and overall mood within hours or days of starting Spravato® treatment.¹ Research and real-world results show that Spravato® can help:¹ - Relieve [major depressive disorder](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/post/what-is-major-depressive-disorder.md) symptoms more quickly than standard antidepressants - Improve day-to-day functioning and motivation - Reduce the intensity and duration of depressive episodes - Support long-term recovery - Help make therapy sessions more productive and profound While every person’s experience is unique, many clients report positive changes within the first few weeks of treatment. With consistent follow-up and supportive therapy, Spravato® can become an important part of a personalized plan to treat depression and restore hope. ## Who Can Get Spravato® Treatment? Spravato® is specifically approved for adults with hard-to-treat depression who have tried at least two other antidepressants without significant relief. It may also be an option for those experiencing major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. However, not everyone will be a candidate for Spravato®. People with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart problems, will need to discuss these concerns with their provider to determine whether or not it’s a good fit. Your provider will review your mental health history and medical background carefully before recommending Spravato® and any other treatment options. _If you are feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out for immediate support by contacting your local emergency services, visiting your local emergency room, or calling/texting the National Crisis Hotline at [988](tel:988)._ ## What to Expect During Spravato® Treatment Spravato® treatment is always provided in a supportive clinical environment under the supervision of a trained professional. It must be administered in clinics that have gone through a specific “Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies” (REMS) certification, ensuring safety and responsibility. Here’s what each step of the Spravato® treatment process involves: ### Initial Evaluation & Screening Before starting treatment, you’ll meet with a qualified healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and screening. This step helps determine whether Spravato® for depression is the right fit for your needs and goals. ### An Educational Session on the Use of Spravato® After approval, our team of mental health professionals will walk you through the treatment process so you know exactly what to expect. You’ll learn how Spravato® works, what administration looks like, and how to prepare for your first session. ### Administration of the Medication The medication is self-administered in our office under the guidance of a licensed healthcare professional. The process is simple and takes only a few moments, but our team will ensure you’re comfortable and supported. ### Monitoring After each session, you’ll stay in the clinic for a two-hour observation period so our team can monitor for side effects such as increased blood pressure, dizziness, or fatigue. Your healthcare provider will also schedule regular visits to track your progress and adjust your care plan as needed. ### Ongoing Therapeutic Support Spravato® treatment works best when paired with continued therapy. Our providers will help you create an individualized plan to strengthen coping skills, manage depression symptoms, and support lasting emotional wellness. If you’ve tried therapy and not found the results you were hoping for, Spravato® encourages neural plasticity, which could lead to new insights and an easier time utilizing coping skills. ## Common Side Effects of Spravato® Like any medication, Spravato® comes with the potential for a few side effects, and most are mild and temporary. Your provider will discuss all potential side effects of Spravato® before treatment and monitor your symptoms closely throughout the process to keep you safe and supported. **Common short-term side effects could include:** - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Nausea or upset stomach - Fatigue or drowsiness - Feeling “spaced out” or detached (temporary dissociation) In rare cases, people may experience more serious reactions such as a sudden severe headache or increased blood pressure for a couple of hours. This is why every Spravato® session takes place under the observation of [licensed healthcare professionals](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/meet-our-team.md) who can respond immediately if needed. ## Find Relief from Depression with Spravato® at LightHeart Mental Health If you’ve been struggling to find relief from depression in the [greater Seattle area](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/lightheart-psychological-associates-locations.md), getting Spravato® nasal spray from our clinics could offer a new path forward. While not an instant “cure,” it could be a meaningful step toward recovery. Many clients describe feeling more engaged in daily life, less weighed down by depressive symptoms, and being better able to reconnect with the things that matter most. The compassionate team at LightHeart Mental Health will guide you through the evaluation process and determine whether this treatment may suit you. Call us today at \[Direct\] or [schedule your first appointment today](https://lightheartassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/post/what-is-major-depressive-disorder.md). **Source:** 1. Spravato®. “How Could SPRAVATO® Help?” [https://www.spravato.com/how-spravato-could-help/](https://www.spravato.com/how-spravato-could-help/)