Spravato® Therapy West Hartford CT

Understanding the Condition

What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is diagnosed when a person has tried at least two different antidepressants at adequate doses and durations without meaningful improvement. It affects an estimated 30% of people with major depressive disorder.

TRD is not a personal failure - it reflects a biological reality that standard medications don't fully address. The brain's glutamate signaling pathways, which antidepressants often don't target, may be a key factor. Esketamine works differently, acting on NMDA receptors in those pathways.

If you've been living with depression despite trying multiple medications, Spravato® may be a path forward.

Spravato esketamine therapy consultation at Ample Urgent & Primary Care West Hartford CT

The Science

How Spravato® Works

Esketamine takes a fundamentally different approach than traditional antidepressants.

Different Mechanism

Esketamine acts on NMDA receptors, which are part of the glutamate system. Its exact antidepressant mechanism is not fully understood.

Treatment Response

Response varies, and improvement is not guaranteed. Your clinician reviews your progress throughout treatment. Spravato does not replace emergency psychiatric care.

FDA Approved

Spravato® is FDA-approved for adults with treatment-resistant depression. Eligibility is assessed from your diagnosis, treatment history and health needs.

Standalone or Combined

For TRD, your clinician may prescribe Spravato® alone or with an oral antidepressant. The separate approved use for depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder and acute suicidal thoughts or behavior requires an oral antidepressant. It has not been shown to prevent suicide.

What to Expect at a Session

Each Spravato® session takes place at our West Hartford office. Arrange a ride home before your visit. Allow time for check-in, dosing and monitoring; the clinician decides when you are safe to leave.

You self-administer the nasal spray Under direct supervision of our clinical staff - Spravato® is not injected or infused

Monitoring for at least 2 hours Monitoring includes blood pressure, alertness and breathing; it may continue longer if needed

Typical schedule: twice weekly × 4 weeks Then once weekly × 4 weeks, then once every 1 - 2 weeks for maintenance

Cleared to leave with a designated driver Do not drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful night's sleep

Session Timeline

1

Arrival & check-in (~15 min) Baseline assessment and preparation check: no food for at least 2 hours before dosing and no liquids for at least 30 minutes

2

Nasal spray administration (~10 min) Take the prescribed nasal dose under supervision, with pauses between devices as directed

3

At least 2 hours of monitoring Your care team monitors you and assesses when you are safe to leave

4

Final assessment & discharge Clearance check before your driver takes you home

Patient consultation for Spravato treatment-resistant depression therapy in West Hartford CT

Am I a Candidate?

Who May Qualify for Spravato®

Spravato® is FDA-approved for adults who meet specific criteria. At your consultation, Dr. Heidari will review your full psychiatric and medication history to determine if you're a good candidate.

Major depressive disorder diagnosis Formally diagnosed by a licensed mental health or medical provider

Failed 2+ antidepressants Adequate dose and duration with inadequate response - not side-effect intolerance alone

Medication plan based on your assessment For TRD, Spravato® may be used alone or with an oral antidepressant

Able to arrange a driver You must have a reliable ride home for every session - this is non-negotiable for safety

Not sure if you qualify? Call us at (860) 838-8799 for a brief phone screening before booking a full consultation. We can often answer eligibility questions in 10 minutes.

Coverage & Cost

Insurance & Financial Assistance

Most major commercial insurance plans and Medicare cover Spravato®. We work with you to verify benefits before your first session.

Commercial Insurance

Most major plans - Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield - typically cover Spravato® when TRD criteria are documented. Prior authorization is usually required; we handle that process.

Medicare & Medicaid

Medicare Part D covers Spravato® for qualifying beneficiaries. Medicaid coverage varies by state; Connecticut's Husky plan covers it in many cases. We verify your specific plan before scheduling.

Manufacturer Support

Manufacturer support may be available through SPRAVATO withMe program. Eligibility depends on your insurance and program rules. Call us to discuss coverage and current support options; savings are not guaranteed.

Common Questions

Spravato® FAQs

Is Spravato® the same as ketamine infusions?

No. Spravato® is esketamine (the S-enantiomer of ketamine), FDA-approved specifically for treatment-resistant depression. IV ketamine infusions use racemic ketamine and are considered off-label for depression. Spravato® is administered as a nasal spray under FDA's REMS safety program, which requires on-site monitoring. IV ketamine is not covered by most insurance; Spravato® typically is.

What does it feel like during a session?

Dissociation, dizziness, nausea and sedation can occur. Monitoring lasts at least two hours and may continue longer. Your clinician assesses whether you are ready to leave; follow the discharge instructions even if you feel well.

How many sessions will I need before I feel a difference?

Response varies. Some patients notice improvement after 1 - 2 sessions; others take the full 4-week induction period. Clinical trials showed statistically significant improvement in depression scores versus placebo after 4 weeks of twice-weekly dosing. We track your response at each visit and adjust the plan accordingly.

Do I need a referral from a psychiatrist?

Not necessarily. Dr. Heidari can evaluate your history and prescribe Spravato® directly if you meet the clinical criteria. If your situation is complex, we may request records from your psychiatrist or therapist to ensure coordination of care. We welcome patients who are self-referred.

Can I drive myself home after a session?

No. Arrange your ride home before each session and confirm the transportation plan with the practice. Do not drive, operate machinery or do activities requiring full alertness until the next day after a restful night's sleep.

Take the First Step

Ready to Learn If Spravato® Is Right for You?

Call our West Hartford office to speak with a member of our clinical team, or book a consultation online. We typically respond within one business day.

Schedule Consultation Call (860) 838-8799

Spravato® is a registered trademark of Janssen Pharmaceuticals. Individual results vary. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment information checked October 27, 2026 against the U.S. prescribing information and manufacturer preparation guidance.

Spravato® (Esketamine) Therapyin West Hartford, CT