Your Top 5 Questions About Spravato® Answered

When you’ve lived with depression that resists medication after medication, it’s easy to lose hope. That’s why our team at Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions exists — to help you rediscover it.

In Sandy Springs, Dr. Karen Giles, and in Alpharetta, Dr. Cecilia Kwong, lead with compassion, advanced training, and a personalized approach to complex mood disorders. Both are board-certified psychiatrists who combine medical expertise with a deep respect for your story.

If you’re exploring Spravato® and have questions, you aren’t alone. These are the top five we hear most often — answered in plain, honest language to help you make an informed decision.

1. What is Spravato, and how does it work?

Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD), including treatment-resistant depression. 

It’s different from traditional antidepressants because it targets glutamate, a brain chemical that helps regulate mood, learning, and memory. By enhancing communication between brain cells, Spravato can “reset” certain neural pathways and promote quicker symptom relief than conventional medications.

At Breakthru, we view Spravato as one piece of a broader care plan that always includes close monitoring, follow-up appointments, and individualized treatment goals.

2. Who might be a good candidate?

Spravato may be right for you if:

• You’ve tried two or more antidepressants with little or no improvement
• You’ve been diagnosed with MDD or depression with suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• You want a treatment administered under supervision, in a safe, clinical environment

We meet with you to review your health history, current medications, and symptoms before making any recommendations. The treatment plan we design is tailored to you.

3. What happens during a Spravato session?

Your Spravato session takes place right in our office. After checking your vital signs and reviewing your symptoms, you self-administer the nasal spray under our supervision. Then you relax in a quiet room while our team monitors you for about two hours.

During that time, you will likely have what many refer to as a dissociative drug experience. After you’ve been discharged, you’ll need a trusted adult to drive you home. 

Most patients report feeling calm and supported throughout the process, and our clinicians stay nearby the entire time to answer questions or provide reassurance.

4. What are the side effects and safety measures?

Common side effects include temporary sleepiness, mild dissociation, nausea, or increased blood pressure. We proactively manage the risk of nausea by administering Zofran and instructing you to fast for two hours before treatment. Other effects typically resolve before you leave the office.  

To ensure your safety throughout the entire process, Spravato is only offered through certified clinics like ours. Additionally, at Breakthru, a medical doctor is always on site for every treatment.

We follow strict safety protocols and tailor every aspect of care — from dosage to recovery time — to your comfort and well-being. If you ever experience unexpected effects, we will adjust our approach. You’re never left on your own.

5. How long does treatment last, and does insurance cover it?

Treatment begins with an induction phase of twice-weekly doses for the first four weeks, followed by once-weekly doses for four weeks. After that, you may transition to a maintenance phase, where the frequency tapers depending on your response.

Many insurance providers now cover Spravato for eligible patients, but coverage varies. Our staff helps you verify benefits, handle prior authorization, and explain any out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins. Transparency is part of our commitment to compassionate care.

Moving toward a breakthrough

Spravato isn’t just another antidepressant — it’s a new avenue of healing for people who’ve been waiting too long for relief. At Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions, our mission is to help you find the light again with medical precision, empathy, and unwavering support.

If you’re ready to learn more about Spravato or schedule a consultation, call Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions in Sandy Springs or Alpharetta today, or request an appointment online. Let’s take the next step together — toward hope, healing, and lasting change.