Brian had a rough time. Two antidepressants in five years. One therapist, no luck. Then he heard about Spravato on a podcast. “Sounds weird,” he thought. “And what’s the cost?”
Still, he Googled “Spravato treatment near me,” found a clinic, and booked a consultation. Two months later, he says, “I felt like I was floating. And that felt good.”
Was it all smooth sailing? Not quite. The clinic made Brian sit for two hours after each dose. The first time, he felt dizzy, calm, and sleepy. “I thought I’d lose control,” he said, “but that didn’t happen.”
A few coworkers whispered, “Spravato ruined my life—someone online said it.” But Brian kept going. By week three, things changed for the better. Luckily, his insurance covered most of the Spravato cost.
Brian is not the only one. More people ask about Spravato with me during sessions. They’re tired of trying and wondering. Can this work? Is it safe? What’s the Spravato cost?
Let’s break it down.
What Is Spravato? Why Sniff It?
Spravato is esketamine. It’s taken as a nasal spray. You do this in a clinic—not at home. You stay there for two hours after the spray, monitored by trained staff.
It’s FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and suicidal thoughts. You can only get it through certified Spravato REMS clinics like ours.
How Often Do You Need Spravato Treatment?
The first month: 2 sessions a week. The next two weeks: 1 session a week. Then, two weeks later, one more session.
That’s 11 sessions in two months. Some people do more. Some stay at weekly doses. It depends on what keeps you stable. Every session includes medical and mental health monitoring.
What About the Dose? Is Everyone on the Same Plan?
Not everyone gets the same dose. Two doses exist: 56mg and 84mg. You start at 56mg if you have treatment-resistant depression. You start and stay at 84mg if you have suicidal thoughts.
Some people bump up to 84mg later. Some don’t.
Is Spravato Expensive? Let’s Talk About Cost
Here’s where “Spravato cost” gets tricky. You have two options:
- Buy & Bill: Your clinic buys the medication and bills your insurance. Insurance pays $1,400–$2,000 per session. You might owe a copay. Some pay $20, and some pay zero.
- Specialty Pharmacy Pathway: Your pharmacy sends the spray to the clinic. Your doctor bills insurance for the appointment only. You pay your regular copay for doctor visits.
Medicare covers it, too, but through Buy & Bill. Many with supplemental plans pay nothing.
Does Insurance Even Approve Spravato?
Short answer: Yes—if you’ve tried other antidepressants.
Here’s what major insurers require:
- Aetna: Tried 2 antidepressants from different classes.
- Anthem Blue Cross (Carelon): Tried 2 antidepressants anytime.
- Blue Shield of California (Magellan): Tried 2 from different classes.
- Cigna: Tried 2 from different classes.
- UnitedHealthcare (Optum): Tried 3 antidepressants, any kind.
- Medicare: Follows private plan rules but needs Buy & Bill.
Still unsure? We’ll check your coverage for free at Felicity Mental Health.
What Are the Spravato Side Effects Everyone Talks About?
Some people feel sleepy. Others feel dizzy or “floaty.” You can’t drive yourself home after. But Spravato side effects usually fade within hours.
There will be no addiction or withdrawal. Spravato doesn’t go home with you. You can only use it inside a REMS-approved center. That keeps things safe.
Who Shouldn’t Try Spravato?
Ask your doctor if you have:
- A history of psychosis
- Uncontrolled blood pressure
- Substance misuse issues
That’s why the two-hour clinic stay exists. We check everything before and after treatment.
Heard “Spravato Ruined My Life”? Here’s Why That’s Misleading
This line shows up in forums. But it’s rarely from people in REMS clinics. Spravato isn’t something you try once at home. It’s a structured, clinical treatment with real oversight.
Like any antidepressant, it takes time. Not every day feels perfect, but for many, the shift is worth it.
Still, Curious? Confused? We’re Here
Spravato isn’t your first step. It’s the next step when nothing else works. You’ll be watched and supported, and we’ll help with insurance at every step.
Still wondering:
- “How much will I pay?”
- “Am I a good fit?”
- “What if it makes me feel weird?”
Felicity Mental Health walks with you from the first call to your 30th session. We’re a certified Spravato REMS treatment center. We offer answers and options, and Spravato with me—your provider, not a stranger.
Ask us your questions today. Let’s figure out what works for you.
