Spravato FAQ
Answers to Common Questions About SPRAVATO® Treatment and Coverage
What will I feel like during SPRAVATO® treatment?
Common side effects may include:
Dizziness or sedation
Feeling disconnected from self or surroundings (dissociation)
Nausea or increased blood pressure
Temporary changes in perception or mood
Is SPRAVATO® covered by insurance?
Yes. SPRAVATO® is typically covered by insurance for individuals who have a documented history of trying at least two oral antidepressants without sufficient relief. New York Integrative Psychiatry is an in-network provider with all major commercial insurance plans—including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Independence, Keystone Health Plan East, Tricare, UnitedHealthcare—and Medicare. Please note that we do not currently accept Medicaid plans.
What does SPRAVATO® cost?
SPRAVATO® is typically covered by insurance, and most patients are only responsible for a copay. To help minimize out-of-pocket costs, we enroll all eligible patients in the SPRAVATO® Savings Program—a manufacturer-supported assistance program that can contribute up to $8,000 annually toward treatment expenses. For many, this brings the cost down to as little as $10 per session.
How do I know if my insurance will cover SPRAVATO®?
In most cases, individuals with a diagnosis of depression and a history of trying antidepressant medications face minimal resistance from insurance providers. Once you’ve completed a medical evaluation with one of our clinicians and are deemed appropriate for treatment, our team will…
Is SPRAVATO® FDA-approved?
Yes. SPRAVATO® (esketamine) received FDA approval in 2019 specifically for the treatment of adults with treatment-resistant depression. Its approval was based on a robust body of clinical research supporting its safety and efficacy in individuals who have not responded adequately to traditional antidepressant therapies.
My insurance says I need a Prior Authorization for SPRAVATO®. How do I get that?
You don’t need to navigate this process alone—our team will take care of the prior authorization on your behalf. We’ve designed our SPRAVATO® intake and consent process to capture the specific information most insurance providers require.
Is SPRAVATO® actually ketamine?
Yes. SPRAVATO® is a form of ketamine. Ketamine is composed of two mirror-image molecules, known as enantiomers: the “R” and “S” enantiomers. SPRAVATO® is the purified “S” enantiomer, also called esketamine. Researchers isolated this component due to its therapeutic potential, and SPRAVATO® is the FDA-approved, intranasal formulation of esketamine specifically developed for the treatment of depression.
What are the side effects of SPRAVATO® (esketamine)?
SPRAVATO® is generally well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and short-lived—typically limited to the day of treatment. The most commonly reported effects include temporary dissociation, light sedation, nausea, and a brief increase in blood pressure.
How often will I need SPRAVATO® treatment sessions?
SPRAVATO® treatment typically begins with twice-weekly sessions for the first four weeks, followed by once-weekly sessions during the second month. After this initial phase, we’ll collaborate with you to determine an ongoing treatment schedule that’s tailored to your clinical response and individual needs.
Can I drive myself to and from my SPRAVATO® treatment sessions?
No. Due to the potential effects of SPRAVATO® on coordination, alertness, and judgment, patients are not permitted to drive themselves after treatment. For your safety, we require that transportation be arranged in advance. Whenever possible, we recommend having a trusted friend or family member accompany you. If that’s not feasible, rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft are acceptable alternatives. Our staff will be available to ensure you’re safely escorted to your ride following your session.
Can I receive SPRAVATO® treatments at home?
No. SPRAVATO® is FDA-approved for administration only in certified treatment settings under medical supervision. For your safety, all treatments must take place in person at an approved SPRAVATO® treatment center, such as ours.