SPRAVATO® is a nasal spray indicated for treatment resistant depression. For most insurances, you will need a referral from your doctor after you’ve tried at least 2 medications for depression from at least 2 classes of drugs. Also, some insurances require talk therapy for at least 6 months. Once you start SPRAVATO®, we may recommend continuing talk therapy to further your healing process. If you do not have a therapist, we can make recommendations.
On your first visit, one of our Victory Clinic healthcare providers will go over your medical history, allergies, and medications to determine if SPRAVATO® is safe for you. If SPRAVATO® is not right for you, then TMS therapy may be an option.
Prior to starting SPRAVATO®, all patients must enroll in REMS. Once you start SPRAVATO®, you will need to continue taking an anti-depressant my mouth. If you are not on an anti-depressant, we may recommend taking the GeneSight® test to see which medication might be best for you. If you are already on an anti-depressant and have seen no improvement, we may also recommend taking the GeneSight® test to see which medication may be best for you.
Depending on your insurance, SPRAVATO® may be either covered as a pharmacy benefit or Victory Clinic may directly bill your insurance for the medication. Either way, Victory Clinic will help you navigate this process. Learn more about SPRAVATO® cost support.
Before your treatments, it’s recommended that you do not eat for 2 hours prior or drink for 30 minutes prior. You will be monitored at Victory Clinic for at least 2 hours after you self-administer the nasal spray in our clinic setting. Victory Clinic is a REMS certified center for SPRAVATO® administration. Due to potential side effects, SPRAVATO® cannot be obtained from the pharmacy for home use. Plan to have a ride home after your SPRAVATO® treatment, as you will not be able to drive, work, or operate heavy equipment until the next day after you have a restful sleep.
SPRAVATO® treatments are twice a week for the first 4 weeks, then maintenance treatments weekly. During the initial treatment, 2 of the 28mg nasal spray devices are prescribed for a total dose of 56mg. Each nasal spray device has 2 sprays, and you’ll be asked to alternate nostrils and wait 5 minutes between sprays. The most common side effect of SPRAVATO® are dissociative or perceptual changes (including distortion of time and space, or illusions).
You may consider asking a trusted friend or family member to ally with you in paying close attention to any changes in your mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any changes in your mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all your scheduled visits with your healthcare provider and talk about your concerns.
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, get help now. Call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Get resources for yourself or be the difference for a loved one by offering support and understanding.
How do I pay for TMS or SPRAVATO®?
Many insurance plans cover TMS or SPRAVATO® for treatment resistant depression. If your insurance doesn’t cover treatment, financing is available through Affirm on our RepeatMD app. Contact your insurance to check your eligibility, or you may call or email us with questions.
