If you have been dealing with depression that does not seem to get better, no matter what medications you try, you may have heard about Spravato. It has gotten a lot of attention recently because it works differently from traditional antidepressants. One question people ask all the time is: how long do you actually need to be on Spravato? Is it a few sessions and done, or is it a longer process?
Spravato treats adults with treatment-resistant depression. That means you have tried at least two antidepressants in the right doses for long enough, but your symptoms did not improve. Spravato works differently from most antidepressants because it targets a brain chemical called glutamate instead of serotonin or norepinephrine. Some people notice a change in mood in just a few hours or days.
Because it is a powerful medication, Spravato has to be used in a certified clinic under a trained provider’s supervision. You will use the nasal spray yourself while sitting comfortably, then stay in the clinic for at least two hours while staff monitor how you are feeling.
The length of Spravato treatment depends on how you respond and what your provider recommends. It is not a quick fix. Instead, it works best as part of a broader plan that might include therapy or other medications. Most treatment plans follow two main phases.
Most people start by coming to the clinic twice a week for four weeks, which adds up to eight sessions in the first month. This phase helps your provider see how you respond. Some people feel better in the first few sessions, while others may need the full month. Your provider will check in regularly about how you are feeling and any side effects.
If Spravato is helping, treatment usually moves to the maintenance phase. Visits often reduce to once a week for another month, and after that, your provider may space them out even more, sometimes to once every two weeks. How long you stay on maintenance depends on how stable your mood is. Treatments can safely continue for several months or longer if needed.
You are never forced to continue treatment if it does not feel right for you. Some people notice relief right away, while others need a few sessions to feel a difference. Some people taper off after a few months of stability, while others stay on a longer-term schedule. The goal is always to find a plan that helps you feel better and maintain your mental health.
If you are curious about how Spravato might work for you, reach out to us. We can explain the process, talk through what to expect, and help you decide if Spravato could be a good option for your depression.