What to Expect When You Arrive at Your First Spravato Appointment

Starting Spravato® (esketamine) can bring a mix of hope and uncertainty. If you’re considering this treatment, chances are you’ve already tried multiple antidepressants without finding lasting relief. That can feel discouraging — but you are not alone.

Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with treatment-resistant depression, and more than 100,000 patients have safely received it under medical supervision. At Indy Behavioral Health, our goal is to make your first experience feel safe, supportive, and well-explained every step of the way.

When You Arrive for Your First Appointment

Spravato is administered in our clinic under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional. It is a prescription nasal spray that must be given in a monitored medical setting — this ensures both safety and effectiveness.

Here’s what your visit will look like:

You’ll check in with our team and review any updates to your medical history.
We’ll take your vital signs, including blood pressure.
You’ll receive your treatment in a comfortable, private treatment room.
Our clinical team will monitor you closely throughout your session.

Because Spravato can temporarily increase blood pressure and cause temporary changes in perception, you will need to arrange transportation to and from the clinic. You should not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day following treatment.

Most appointments last about two hours, which includes both administration and observation time to ensure you are safe and stable before leaving.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Your provider will give you personalized instructions, but here are general guidelines:

Do not eat or consume caffeine for at least 2 hours before your appointment.
Avoid liquids for 30 minutes before treatment.
Wear comfortable clothing.
Consider bringing a blanket, eye mask, or calming music (with headphones).
Avoid blowing your nose immediately after dosing.
Bring a list of current medications and supplements.

Creating a calm, comfortable environment can help you feel more relaxed during the session.

What Does Spravato Feel Like?

Most patients begin to notice effects within minutes.Common experiences may include:

A relaxed or dream-like state
Feeling detached from surroundings (dissociation)
Mild dizziness
Changes in perception of time or space
Emotional clarity or introspection

Many patients describe the experience as calming and reflective. Others may simply feel very relaxed. You will remain awake during treatment, though some patients feel drowsy and may lightly rest. Our team is present the entire time to answer questions and ensure your comfort.

These sensations are temporary and gradually fade during the observation period.

After Your Treatment

Before you leave, we will:

Recheck your blood pressure and vital signs
Assess your alertness and stability
Confirm you have safe transportation home

We recommend:

Blocking off the rest of the day to rest
Avoiding major decisions or strenuous activities
Prioritizing a good night’s sleep

Most patients feel back to their baseline by the next day.

How Often Will I Need Treatment?

Your treatment schedule is individualized, but typically includes:

Initial Phase: Two treatments per week for 4 weeks
Continuation Phase: Once weekly for 4–8 weeks
Maintenance Phase: Once every 2–4 weeks, depending on your response

Your provider will adjust your plan based on how you respond and how you’re feeling.

Beginning Your Spravato Journey

Treatment-resistant depression is typically defined as depression that has not improved after trying at least two different antidepressants. If that sounds like your experience, Spravato may be an option worth exploring.

At Indy Behavioral Health, we specialize in advanced, evidence-based depression treatments delivered with compassion and clinical oversight.

If you’re ready to take the next step, contact our team to learn whether Spravato is right for you.