Patients exploring advanced treatments for depression often come across two options: Spravato® and ketamine therapy.
Both treatments are derived from the same medication family and are used to help individuals struggling with depression, particularly when traditional treatments have not worked.
However, there are important differences between the two approaches.
At Seaside Ketamine, serving patients across San Diego from our clinic in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, providers help patients understand the differences between Spravato and ketamine therapy so they can choose the treatment that best fits their needs.
Spravato® is a nasal spray form of esketamine that was approved by the FDA in 2019 for treatment-resistant depression.
Because it has received FDA approval for this specific condition, some insurance plans may cover portions of treatment when patients meet medical criteria.
Spravato must be administered in a certified clinic and requires patients to remain under observation for a period after treatment.
Ketamine therapy typically refers to ketamine administered through IV infusion or intramuscular injection.
Although IV ketamine is considered an off-label treatment for depression, it has been widely studied and used in clinical settings for years.
Many mental health providers consider IV ketamine therapy particularly effective because dosing can be carefully adjusted and monitored throughout the session.
Patients in San Diego often ask how these treatments compare. Some of the key differences include:
Spravato is delivered as a nasal spray, while ketamine therapy is typically administered via IV infusion or injection.
Spravato is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, while IV ketamine is used off-label but supported by extensive research.
IV ketamine allows providers to adjust dosage during treatment, which can create a more customized approach.
Spravato may be partially covered by insurance, whereas IV ketamine treatments are often paid out-of-pocket.
Choosing between Spravato and ketamine therapy in San Diego depends on several factors, including:
Your diagnosis
Previous treatment history
Insurance considerations
Personal preferences
Provider recommendations
A qualified clinician can help evaluate these factors during a consultation.
Regardless of the treatment option chosen, ketamine-based therapies should always be administered under medical supervision.
At Seaside Ketamine, safety protocols include:
Comprehensive screening
Continuous monitoring during treatment
Physician oversight
Post-treatment observation
These safeguards help ensure that patients receive treatment in a safe and supportive environment.
For individuals who have struggled with depression despite trying multiple medications, ketamine-based treatments represent an important advancement in mental health care.
Both Spravato and ketamine therapy offer new possibilities for symptom relief and improved quality of life.
A consultation at Seaside Ketamine can help determine which option may be the best fit for your treatment goals.
