Spravato vs Ketamine Infusion: Which Works Better for Depression?
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I’ve seen a lot of people asking about Spravato vs ketamine infusion lately, especially for treatment-resistant depression. Having researched both and spoken to my psychiatrist, here’s what I’ve learned so far.
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray that you take in a certified clinic under medical supervision. It’s designed for adults with major depressive disorder who haven’t responded to traditional antidepressants. The treatment usually involves two sessions per week at first, then less frequently as you progress. The biggest advantage is that it’s regulated, has clear dosing, and is often covered by insurance.
Ketamine infusion therapy, on the other hand, delivers ketamine directly into your bloodstream via IV. This method isn’t FDA-approved specifically for depression, but many clinics offer it based on strong clinical evidence. Infusions can provide rapid relief, sometimes within hours, and are often used when someone needs quick intervention, like in severe suicidal thoughts.
Key differences: Spravato uses a specific form of ketamine (esketamine) and has strict protocols, while infusions use racemic ketamine and offer more flexibility in dosing. Side effects for both can include dizziness, nausea, and dissociation, but they typically fade within a couple of hours.
From what I’ve gathered, the “better” choice depends on your needs — if you want an FDA-approved, insurance-friendly route, Spravato might be the way to go. If you’re looking for potentially faster relief and are okay with paying out of pocket, ketamine infusions may be worth exploring.
Anyone here tried both and can share how they compared for you?