Spravato (esketamine) treatment follows a structured protocol designed to help patients with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Unlike traditional antidepressants that may take weeks to show benefit, some patients notice improvement in their symptoms after the first session, with further progress building over time.
At Being Health in New York City, our psychiatrists and clinical team provide careful guidance at every step—prioritizing safety, close monitoring, and personalized care to help patients achieve meaningful and sustainable relief.
The Spravato Treatment Timeline
Spravato treatment typically unfolds in three phases: Induction, Optimization, and Maintenance.
Weeks 1–4: Induction Phase
- Frequency: 2 sessions per week
- Goal: Rapid reduction in depressive symptoms
- Experience: Patients often begin noticing changes in mood and outlook during this period
Weeks 5–8: Optimization Phase
- Frequency: 1 session per week
- Goal: Reinforce early improvements and stabilize progress
- Experience: Many patients report more consistent energy, motivation, and relief from depressive symptoms
Week 9 and Beyond: Maintenance Phase
- Frequency: 1 session every 1–2 weeks, depending on individual needs
- Goal: Sustain benefits while reducing treatment frequency over time
- Experience: Treatment schedules are personalized—some patients need weekly sessions, while others maintain results with less frequent visits
What Happens During a Spravato Session?
Each session lasts about 2–2.5 hours and includes:
- Check-In – You’ll be welcomed into a private treatment room where our team reviews your vitals and ensures you’re comfortable.
- Administration – Spravato is self-administered via nasal spray under clinical supervision.
- Personalized Comfort: To support relaxation, patients may use a blanket, eye mask, or an immersive Wavepaths audio experience during their session.
- Monitoring – For about two hours, you’ll rest in a safe environment while our providers monitor your vitals and response.
- Recovery – Once stable, you’ll be discharged.
Why the Structured Protocol Matters
The Spravato schedule is intentional, it ensures patients receive enough treatment early on to trigger improvement, then taper to a sustainable maintenance rhythm.
- Early intensity provides rapid relief for many patients.
- Gradual tapering helps maintain gains without overexposure.
- Flexibility allows providers to adjust based on your progress.
This protocol is one of the reasons Spravato is so effective for treatment-resistant depression.
Patient Experience at Being Health
At Being Health, patients describe Spravato treatment as supportive and transformative. From calm treatment rooms to continuous monitoring, our focus is on:
- Safety: Gold-standard clinical protocols
- Comfort: A healing environment designed for relaxation
- Personalization: Tailoring the maintenance schedule to each patient’s unique needs
Frequently Asked Questions About Spravato Protocol
Do I need to come twice a week forever?
No. Twice-weekly dosing is only required during the first month. Frequency decreases after that.
How long do patients stay on Spravato?
The length of time patients remain on Spravato varies—some patients continue maintenance treatments for several months or longer, while others transition off after achieving stable remission. Treatment duration is individualized and determined by you and your prescribing psychiatrist.
What if I miss a session?
Occasional missed sessions happen. Your provider will adjust your schedule to keep you on track.
Next Steps
If you’re considering Spravato, knowing what the first eight weeks look like can help you plan and feel confident about starting treatment.
For more personalized answers and to learn if Spravato is right for you, schedule a consultation with Being Health today or give us a call at 888-668-7600.
