What to Expect During Your First Spravato Treatment
At Sturges Family Practice, we understand that struggling with treatment-resistant depression can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re proud to offer Spravato (esketamine) treatment to qualified patients. This innovative therapy works differently from traditional antidepressants by targeting NMDA receptors in the brain, often providing relief in a shorter timeframe.
If you have scheduled your first Spravato treatment with us, we want you to feel as prepared and comfortable as possible. This guide will walk you through each step of the process, from your arrival at our clinic to post-treatment expectations.
Step 1: Preparing for Your First Spravato Appointment
Before your first session at Sturges Family Practice, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
Arrange Transportation: Spravato can cause drowsiness and disorientation, so you will not be able to drive yourself home. Please arrange for a friend, family member, or rideshare service to pick you up after your appointment.
Fasting Recommendations: To minimize the chance of nausea, we recommend avoiding heavy meals within two hours before your treatment.
Medications & Health Review: Our medical team will review your medications and medical history before treatment. Be sure to inform us of any prescriptions, allergies, or health conditions.
Wear Comfortable Clothing: You’ll be relaxing in our clinic for at least two hours, so we encourage you to wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Mental Preparation: Feeling nervous before your first treatment is completely normal. Practicing deep breathing or mindfulness exercises beforehand may help ease any anxiety.
Step 2: Checking in at Sturges Family Practice
When you arrive at our clinic for your appointment, our friendly staff will check you in and guide you to a private treatment area. Before beginning the session, we will:
Answer any last-minute questions you may have.
Conduct a health assessment, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels.
Explain what to expect during and after the treatment.
Step 3: Administering the Spravato Nasal Spray
Unlike IV ketamine therapy, Spravato is administered as a nasal spray under the supervision of our trained providers. The process includes:
Self-Administration: You will spray one dose into each nostril under medical guidance.
Rest Period: If required by your prescription, you’ll wait five minutes before administering the second dose.
Monitoring: Once dosing is complete, you’ll remain under observation in our care for two hours to ensure your safety.
Step 4: The Two-Hour Monitoring Period
After taking Spravato, you’ll stay at Sturges Family Practice for observation. Since Spravato can cause temporary side effects, our team will be on hand to monitor and assist you. Common effects may include:
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Mild disorientation or dissociation (feeling detached from reality)
Increased blood pressure
Nausea
Fatigue or drowsiness
We encourage patients to relax, listen to music, or practice mindfulness during this time. Our providers will check your vitals and overall response throughout the session.
Step 5: Post-Treatment & Returning Home
Once the two-hour monitoring period is complete, our team will:
Reassess your vitals and mental state.
Provide aftercare instructions and schedule your next session.
Ensure you have a safe ride home with your designated driver.
Many patients feel tired, reflective, or mildly disoriented for a few hours after treatment. We recommend taking the rest of the day to relax and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 24 hours.
Step 6: Tracking Your Progress & Next Steps
Spravato is part of a structured treatment plan that involves multiple sessions. Some patients notice mood improvements within hours, while others require several treatments before experiencing significant relief.
Initial Phase: Spravato is usually administered twice a week for the first four weeks.
Maintenance Phase: Depending on your progress, treatments may gradually be reduced.
Ongoing Monitoring: Our team will assess your mental health progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
We encourage patients to track their emotions, sleep patterns, and energy levels to help monitor improvements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spravato at Sturges Family Practice
1. Will I feel immediate relief after my first Spravato dose?
Some patients notice subtle mood improvements within hours, while others require multiple treatments. Full benefits typically emerge after 2-4 weeks of consistent treatment.
2. Can I return to work after my appointment?
We recommend taking the rest of the day off, as drowsiness and dissociation may persist. You should avoid driving and making important decisions for 24 hours.
3. Is Spravato safe?
Yes, Spravato is FDA-approved and administered under strict medical supervision. Our providers carefully assess each patient to ensure suitability and safety.
4. How long will I need to take Spravato?
Treatment duration varies. Some patients require long-term maintenance doses, while others transition to traditional antidepressants or therapy after their initial phase.
5. What if I experience side effects?
Most side effects subside within a few hours. If you experience prolonged discomfort, nausea, or other concerns, please reach out to our team.
Why Choose Sturges Family Practice for Spravato Treatment?
At Sturges Family Practice, we are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. Our experienced team ensures a safe, supportive environment where you can explore new treatment options with confidence.
If you or a loved one is considering Spravato, we are here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Sturges Family Practice today to schedule a consultation and find out if Spravato is right for you.
