NeuroStar® TMS Therapy
FDA-cleared, non-medication depression treatment
SPRAVATO® (esketamine) Nasal Spray FAQs
By: Mitchell Whigham, PA-C
Physician Assistant, Greenbrook Mental Wellness Centers
SPRAVATO® FAQs
Q: What should I do to prepare for my first treatment?
A: We recommend refraining from eating anything for two hours prior to your appointment. I would also recommend bringing any comfort items such as a blanket, pillow or headphones to listen to music.
Q: How long to the side effects last?
A: Typically, side effects peak around 40 minutes after dosing with SPRAVATO®. For the majority of people, side effects generally wear off by the end of the two-hour observation period. However, for some, it may be longer or shorter than that.
Q: What do people do during the two-hour observation period?
A: Journaling, sleeping, drawing, painting, watching a movie, listening to music or podcasts are the most common things I see people do during the observation period.
Q: If I don't really get any side effects, do I have to stay the whole two hours for observation?
A: Yes! The two-hour observation period is mandatory regardless of side effects.
Q: Am I able to drive myself home after treatment?
A: No! Do not operate a vehicle or any machinery after treatment with SPRAVATO® for the rest of the day.
Q: What will SPRAVATO® taste like?
A: Most people tell me there is a bitter or metallic taste to SPRAVATO®. Ask your Greenbrook Care Team what amenities they may have to help with the taste, such as ginger ale or mints!
Q: What if I need to go to the bathroom during the observation period?
A: Be sure to let a member of your Greenbrook Care Team that you need to use the restroom. A member of the team will help escort you to and from the restroom.
Q: Does Greenbrook provide IV ketamine treatments?
A: No, Greenbrook does not provide IV ketamine treatments. IV ketamine has not been approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression.
Q: I have a teenager who I think could benefit from SPRAVATO® treatments, do you treat adolescents?
A: SPRAVATO® is approved for and has only been studied in people over the age of 18 at this time.
Depression is already frustrating, even more so after trying multiple medications that don’t help. If you struggle with treatment resistant depression, it may be time to talk to your Doctor about SPRAVATO® or visit GreenbrookTMS.com to learn more.
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