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SPRAVATO® (esketamine) and ketamine are chemically related, and both can produce treatment results that are both rapid and effective. The main difference is that esketamine is a version of ketamine that can be administered intranasally (through the nose), while most other ketamine treatments are administered through injections.
SPRAVATO® is combined with an oral antidepressant. Unlike conventional antidepressants, you do not need to use SPRAVATO® every day but can take it anywhere from twice weekly to monthly.
To learn more about this treatment, book a free informational call with one of our health navigators.
In the event of an emergency, it’s crucial to seek help as soon as possible. The Talk Suicide Helpline is available 24/7 to provide support and resources.
You can access this service by calling 1-833-456-4566 or texting 45645.
In the case of an immediate danger to yourself or others, calling 911 should be your first course of action.
SPRAVATO® treats depression in a different way than most conventional antidepressants. Ketamine targets the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which results in increased activity of glutamate in the brain. Researchers believe this causes creation of new connections between neurons which in turn is believed to allow for new creation of positive thought and behaviour patterns in patients treated with ketamine. This is commonly referred to as neuroplasticity.
You are not able to take SPRAVATO® on your own. You will be given SPRAVATO® under the supervision of a practitioner at a Numinus clinic.
You can bring items to help you relax or pass the time. These items might include headphones, a book, or a blanket and pillow.
If you have to miss a treatment, let your practitioner know as soon as possible. The practitioner may decide to change your dose or dosing frequency.
SPRAVATO® is Health Canada approved for depression so may be covered through insurance, whereas ketamine is often not covered by insurance as it is technically being used off-label.
We work with a variety of insurance providers and offer direct billing. Contact us to help verify and explain your insurance benefits. In addition to insurance, we accept MasterCard, Visa, most health savings (HSA) cards, and cash payments. In the case we cannot accept your insurance, receipts can be provided to be submitted to your insurance company as an out-of-network provider.
Here is what you can expect from your SPRAVATO® treatment.
We’ll start with a thorough evaluation of your medical and mental health history, and an overview of your treatment goals.
Your practitioner will determine your treatment plan - it may involve a mix of SPRAVATO®, oral antidepressants, and therapy.
Our SPRAVATO® treatment is a structured program that can involve multiple sessions. In these sessions, you will be given SPRAVATO®, under medical supervision, but generally without a therapist to guide you through the ketamine experience. SPRAVATO® is administered in our comfortable, peaceful, and monitored ketamine administration rooms in our clinics.
Ketamine, in higher doses, can cause a “psychedelic” experience (changes in perception, out of body experience, dissociation). Some patients may prefer the support of a therapist. For more information on therapist supported ketamine treatments, please visit our Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and Ketamine Treatment pages.
Spravato® is approved for treatment resistant depression. Common side effects of ketamine include dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Ketamine raises heart rate and blood pressure, which can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. People under the influence of ketamine may have difficulty standing up and be confused about their surroundings. Ketamine can cause vivid dreams or hallucinations, which may be intense and terrifying, and a feeling like the mind is separated from the body. Ketamine has been reported to cause apnea and respiratory depression as well as laryngospasm. Like all anesthetics, ketamine prevents users from feeling pain and, if injury occurs, a person may not know it. Frequent use of ketamine may cause bladder problems. Ketamine can cause psychosis and seizures. This also has a risk for abuse and physical and psychological dependence. The side effects above are not the only effects you will experience. In addition, there can be various other side effects. Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Refer to the medication's official prescribing information. Always consult a physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your mental health or on any opinions expressed within this article.
