Spravato (esketamine nasal spray) is a breakthrough treatment for treatment-resistant depression. While its effects can be rapid and profound, knowing what to do after Spravato treatment is crucial for your safety, recovery, and maximizing long-term benefits.

Post-treatment care isn’t just about avoiding side effects it’s about monitoring your mental health, supporting your body, and following your clinician’s guidance to ensure the best outcomes. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know.

Short Answer: What to Do After Spravato Treatment

Immediately after a Spravato session:

  • Rest for at least 2 hours at the clinic under supervision.

  • Avoid driving or operating machinery for 24 hours.

  • Stay hydrated and eat light meals.

  • Monitor mood changes, dissociation, or side effects.

  • Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Spravato can cause dizziness, mild sedation, or dissociation. These effects are normal but require caution and structured post-treatment care.

Understanding Spravato and Its Effects

Spravato is an NMDA receptor antagonist, meaning it works differently from traditional antidepressants. Its rapid effects can significantly improve mood, but the drug may also temporarily affect:

  • Coordination and balance

  • Alertness and reaction time

  • Perception and consciousness (mild dissociation)

Because of these effects, post-treatment safety and self-care are critical. Clinics monitor patients for at least 2 hours after each session to ensure stability before leaving.

Immediate Post-Treatment Guidelines

Rest and Observation

After treatment:

  • Sit or lie down and rest under clinical supervision for at least 2 hours.

  • Monitor for dizziness, disorientation, nausea, or headache.

  • Avoid abrupt movements to prevent falls.

Example:
Emma felt mildly dizzy and foggy after her Spravato session. By sitting quietly at the clinic for the recommended rest period, she avoided accidents and felt clear-headed before leaving.

Avoid Driving and Operating Machinery

  • Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours post-treatment.

  • Even if you feel alert, Spravato may impair judgment and reaction time.

Hydration and Nutrition

  • Drink water to counter mild dehydration or dizziness.

  • Eat light, balanced meals to prevent nausea or fatigue.

Example:
After treatment, John had a small snack and water, which helped manage his mild headache and maintained his energy during the rest period.

Short-Term Self-Care at Home

Symptom Monitoring

  • Track mood changes, dissociation, headaches, or dizziness.

  • Use a journal or app to record side effects and improvements.

  • Bring these notes to follow-up appointments for better treatment adjustments.

Avoid Alcohol or Recreational Drugs

  • Alcohol or recreational drugs can interfere with Spravato’s effects and increase side effects like dizziness or disorientation.

Emotional and Mental Health Check-In

  • Pay attention to suicidal thoughts, anxiety spikes, or emotional instability.

  • Contact your clinician immediately if you experience intense mood swings or thoughts of self-harm.

Example:
After her session, Mia noted mild dissociation and anxiety. She called her nurse, who reassured her and gave tips for coping until her next appointment.

Follow-Up and Continuing Treatment

Spravato is usually combined with an oral antidepressant and structured therapy. Post-treatment follow-up is essential:

  • Attend scheduled follow-ups to review efficacy and side effects.

  • Adjust oral medications or therapy plans as needed.

  • Discuss any symptoms or concerns openly with your prescribing clinician.

Long-Term Self-Care Strategies

  1. Structured Routines: Sleep, meals, exercise, and therapy should be consistent.

  2. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Techniques like meditation, journaling, or yoga can complement treatment.

  3. Support Networks: Engage with family, friends, or peer support groups.

  4. Early Symptom Detection: Monitor for early signs of relapse to act promptly.

Example:
Tom combined Spravato with weekly therapy sessions, consistent sleep routines, and daily journaling. Within weeks, he noticed mood improvements and better emotional resilience.

Immediate vs. Long-Term Post-Spravato Care

Post-Treatment Aspect Immediate Care Long-Term Self-Care
Rest & Monitoring 2 hours at clinic Daily mood and symptom tracking
Safety Avoid driving 24 hours Avoid triggers, maintain routines
Nutrition & Hydration Light meals, water Balanced diet, consistent hydration
Mental Health Observation Report acute side effects Track mood, therapy engagement
Substance Use Avoid alcohol/other drugs Maintain substance-free environment

FAQs About Spravato Post-Treatment

  1. How long should I rest after Spravato treatment?
    At least 2 hours under clinical supervision.

  2. Can I drive the same day as Spravato treatment?
    No. Avoid driving for 24 hours due to possible impairment.

  3. What side effects should I monitor at home?
    Dissociation, dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, or mood changes.

  4. When should I contact my doctor after treatment?
    If severe side effects, suicidal thoughts, or unusual mood changes occur.

  5. How often do I need follow-up appointments?
    Usually weekly during the induction phase, then tapering to maintenance schedules as advised.

  6. Can Spravato affect sleep or appetite?
    Some patients experience mild sleep disruption or appetite changes; monitor and report if persistent.

  7. Are there lifestyle changes to enhance Spravato’s effectiveness?
    Regular sleep, exercise, therapy, stress management, and avoiding alcohol improve outcomes.

  8. How do I combine Spravato with therapy or oral antidepressants?
    Follow your clinician’s plan for timing and dosage; therapy enhances treatment efficacy.

Conclusion

Knowing what to do after Spravato treatment is essential for safety, recovery, and long-term mental health improvement. Immediate post-treatment care focuses on rest, monitoring, hydration, and avoiding risks, while ongoing self-care emphasizes structured routines, therapy integration, and symptom tracking.

By following these guidelines and maintaining close communication with your clinician, you can maximize the benefits of Spravato, minimize side effects, and support your journey toward improved mental health.

Spravato is a powerful tool, but post-treatment care and lifestyle adjustments are equally critical for long-term success.