What Is Spravato? A Guide to Treatment-Resistant Depression Therapy

For individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression, the struggle often feels endless. After trying multiple antidepressants, attending therapy, and exhausting self-help tools, many patients are left asking: What else can I do?

If you or a loved one is dealing with persistent, severe depression that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, Spravato (esketamine) may offer new hope.

At Daniel Perry MD, we are one of the few psychiatric clinics in Savannah, Georgia, offering this innovative therapy under close medical supervision. In this article, we’ll explain what Spravato is, who it’s for, how it works, and what to expect during treatment.

What Is Spravato?

Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, a medication derived from ketamine, an anesthetic that has shown fast-acting antidepressant properties in recent years.

Spravato is

• FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
• Administered as a nasal spray in a clinical setting
• Designed to be used alongside a traditional oral antidepressant

Unlike most antidepressants that can take weeks to work, Spravato may provide relief within hours or days, especially for individuals at risk of self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

How Spravato Works in the Brain

Traditional antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs work by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine. Spravato, however, targets the glutamate system, a completely different pathway.

By acting on NMDA receptors, Spravato helps

• Create new neural connections
• Repair damaged pathways linked to mood regulation
• Rapidly improve mood and outlook

This mechanism of action is what makes Spravato such a breakthrough for people who haven’t responded to conventional therapies.

Who Is Spravato For?

Spravato is FDA-approved for adults who meet either of the following criteria:

• Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD):
  You’ve tried at least two different antidepressants at adequate doses and durations without significant relief.
• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with Suicidal Ideation:
  You are experiencing acute suicidal thoughts and need fast-acting relief alongside traditional treatments.

To determine if you’re eligible, Dr. Daniel Perry will perform a full psychiatric evaluation, including your medication history, symptoms, and overall treatment goals.

What to Expect: The Spravato Treatment Process in Savannah

At our Savannah clinic, Spravato therapy is conducted in-office under direct medical supervision in compliance with REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) safety requirements.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Evaluation and Approval

You’ll meet with Dr. Perry for an assessment and discussion of your diagnosis, medical history, and past medication responses. If you qualify, we will submit prior authorization through your insurance.

2. Induction Phase (First 4 Weeks)

• Two sessions per week
• Each visit lasts about 2 hours
• Administered via nasal spray under supervision
• You must stay in the office for monitoring including blood pressure and side effects

3. Maintenance Phase (Weeks 5 and beyond)

• Frequency reduces to once weekly or biweekly, based on your response
• Continued use of oral antidepressants alongside Spravato

4. Monitoring and Follow-Up

Throughout treatment, Dr. Perry and his team monitor your mood, cognition, vitals, and overall wellness. Adjustments are made based on your progress and tolerance.

Common Questions About Spravato

Is Spravato safe?

Yes. Spravato is FDA-approved and administered only in certified treatment centers under supervision. Side effects are monitored closely during each visit.

What are the side effects?

Common side effects include

• Dizziness or dissociation
• Sedation
• Increased blood pressure
• Nausea
• Headache

These are typically short-lived and subside shortly after treatment.

Will I feel high or out of control?

Some patients report a detached or floating feeling during sessions known as dissociation, but it is temporary and managed safely in the clinic environment.

Can I drive after a session?

No. You must arrange for someone to drive you home after each treatment. Driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions should be avoided for the rest of the day.

Why Choose Spravato at Daniel Perry MD?

At our Savannah psychiatric clinic, you’ll receive more than just medication. You’ll get:

• Board-certified care by Dr. Daniel Perry, MD, MPH
• A private, calm environment for Spravato administration
• Full coordination with your therapist or PCP if needed
• Compassionate support from a trusted clinical team
• Insurance navigation and prior authorization assistance

Whether you're exploring advanced treatment options or have exhausted traditional therapies, we offer personalized support through every phase of your mental health journey.

How to Get Started with Spravato in Savannah, Georgia

Getting started is simple. If you live in Savannah or anywhere in Georgia, we invite you to book a consultation and learn if Spravato is right for you.

What You’ll Need

• A full list of medications you've tried for depression
• Any psychiatric or psychological records
• A list of questions or concerns for Dr. Perry

We’ll walk you through insurance eligibility, logistics, and next steps.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

You don’t have to keep fighting depression alone. Spravato therapy at Daniel Perry MD offers a cutting-edge path forward when standard treatments fall short.

Let’s talk about what’s possible because real relief might be closer than you think.

In-Person Spravato Treatments

315 Commercial Drive, Suite D-6, Savannah, GA 31406

Contact Our Office

Call: (912) 513-2888

Secure Booking: https://spruce.care/danielperrymd

Final Thoughts

Spravato is not just a treatment. It is a new option for hope, healing, and possibility. If you or someone you love is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, reach out today.

Your mental wellness is worth the investment. At Daniel Perry MD, we're here to help you reclaim it.