Question 1

Is ketamine FDA-approved for depression?

Accepted Answer

Only one ketamine-based medicine is: SPRAVATO® (esketamine nasal spray), for treatment-resistant depression and for depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder and acute suicidal ideation or behavior. IV, IM, and oral ketamine are FDA-approved as anesthetics; using them for depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, or pain is off-label.

Question 2

What is SPRAVATO®?

Accepted Answer

SPRAVATO® is the brand name for esketamine nasal spray, an FDA-approved CIII controlled prescription medicine for two uses in adults with major depression. It is given only in a certified healthcare setting under direct observation.

Question 3

Who may be eligible for SPRAVATO®?

Accepted Answer

The labeled uses are treatment-resistant depression in adults, as monotherapy or with an oral antidepressant, and depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder and acute suicidal ideation or behavior, together with an oral antidepressant. A qualified healthcare professional determines individual eligibility.

Question 4

Can I use SPRAVATO® at home?

Accepted Answer

No. Patients self-administer each dose only in a healthcare setting certified in the SPRAVATO® REMS program, while a healthcare professional observes.

Question 5

How long is a SPRAVATO® visit?

Accepted Answer

After each SPRAVATO® dose, the healthcare setting monitors each patient for at least two hours. The treating professional decides when the patient is clinically stable and ready to leave.

Question 6

Can I drive after ketamine or SPRAVATO® treatment?

Accepted Answer

No. Arrange transportation home. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything requiring complete alertness until the next day after a restful sleep.

Question 7

What are the serious risks of SPRAVATO®?

Accepted Answer

SPRAVATO®'s boxed warning covers sedation, dissociation, respiratory depression, abuse and misuse, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The prescriber must review the complete FDA safety information and your individual risks.

Question 8

Does SPRAVATO® prevent suicide?

Accepted Answer

Its effectiveness in preventing suicide or reducing suicidal ideation or behavior has not been demonstrated. It does not replace hospitalization when clinically warranted. Call or text 988 in a crisis, or call 911 for immediate danger.

Question 9

Is SPRAVATO® the same as IV ketamine?

Accepted Answer

No. SPRAVATO® is a standardized esketamine nasal spray approved by the FDA for specific adult indications and restricted through a REMS. IV ketamine use for depression is generally off-label and follows clinic-specific protocols.

Question 10

Will insurance cover ketamine treatment?

Accepted Answer

IV, IM, and oral ketamine for mental health or pain are off-label and usually self-pay, so ask the clinic for a written price for the full course. SPRAVATO® is often covered, typically after prior authorization at an in-network certified center. Confirm benefits directly before starting.

Question 11

Is SPRAVATO® approved for children?

Accepted Answer

No. SPRAVATO® is not approved for pediatric patients.

Ketamine treatment questions, answered