Spravato

Severe depression that doesn’t improve with traditional medications can feel discouraging and isolating. At Nexa Psychiatry & Wellness in Austin, Texas, Emma Smith, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Chad Johnson, APRN, PMHNP-BC, and the mental health team offer treatment with Spravato®, an FDA-approved nasal spray containing esketamine for treatment-resistant depression. With careful evaluations and monitored in-office treatments, they provide safe, personalized care to help reduce symptoms and restore hope. Call the office or schedule online to learn more.

What is Spravato®?

Spravato® is a prescription medication used to treat certain mental health conditions, particularly treatment-resistant depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants taken orally, Spravato is administered as a nasal spray under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals at Nexa Psychiatry & Wellness. 

The treatment is for adults who haven’t experienced sufficient relief from other antidepressant treatments. Spravato works as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes therapy, counseling, and close medical monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What mental health concerns does Spravato treat?

Spravato is prescribed primarily for adults with specific mental health needs, including:

• Treatment-resistant depression (TRD): depression that hasn’t improved after trying at least two other antidepressant medications
• Major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors: prescribed in select cases based on your Nexa Psychiatry & Wellness provider’s evaluation
• Persistent depressive symptoms: such as ongoing sadness, low energy, or difficulty functioning in daily life

If you experience these symptoms, book a consultation to learn more about Spravato to determine if it’s a suitable treatment option.

How does Spravato work?

Spravato contains esketamine, a medicine that works differently from regular antidepressants. It affects a brain chemical called glutamate, which helps control mood, thinking, and how brain cells communicate. 

By focusing on glutamate, Spravato can help balance the parts of the brain that manage emotions and mood, which can sometimes help people feel better faster than with typical antidepressant pills. 

The Nexa Psychiatry & Wellness team administers the treatment at the practice to monitor your blood pressure and your response.

When will I notice results from Spravato treatment?

Many patients report feeling improvements in mood, energy, and outlook within hours or days after their first Spravato session. However, the timeline for results can vary depending on individual factors, including the severity of depression, overall health, and whether other therapies are used in addition to Spravato. 

Typically, the treatment plan involves an initial series of sessions followed by a maintenance schedule to support ongoing symptom management and reduce the risk of relapse. The team monitors you closely to ensure that treatment is both safe and effective.

If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, Spravato may be an option to consider. Contact Nexa Psychiatry & Wellness in Austin, Texas, or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about personalized treatment and how it can help.