Spravato® (Esketamine) Nasal Spray
for Depression & PTSD

Spravato® Efficacy: What the Research Shows About This Fast-Acting Treatment

Spravato® (esketamine) has gained attention as an FDA‑approved, non‑IV treatment option for adults with treatment‑resistant depression. Clinical studies highlight its potential for rapid symptom improvement and meaningful response rates, especially for individuals who haven’t found relief with traditional antidepressants.



Spravato® Response Rates vs. Traditional Antidepressants

While many standard antidepressants help a portion of patients, clinical research on Spravato® has shown notably higher response rates in certain populations. Studies have reported that a significant percentage of participants experienced measurable improvement after adding Spravato® to their treatment plan, with some trials reporting response rates approaching 70% in select study groups. These findings suggest Spravato® may offer an important alternative for individuals who have not benefited from multiple prior medications — though individual results vary.

Faster Relief: How Quickly Spravato® Works Compared to Standard Antidepressants

Traditional antidepressants often require several weeks before patients notice meaningful changes. In contrast, clinical research on esketamine has documented improvements much sooner—sometimes within the first 24 hours of treatment. This rapid onset is one of the reasons Spravato® is considered a valuable option for people experiencing severe or persistent depressive symptoms.

Long-Term Remission: Sustained Results With Spravato® Treatment

Long‑term data also show encouraging outcomes. In one study, nearly half of the individuals who continued Spravato® alongside an oral antidepressant achieved remission within the first three months of treatment. These results highlight the potential for both short‑term relief and ongoing stabilization when Spravato® is used as part of a structured, medically supervised plan.

Better Health Whole Wellness Center three-circle logo mark – IV ketamine therapy and Spravato provider Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia

How Spravato® (Esketamine) Works in the Brain – And Why It’s Different

Spravato® (esketamine) offers a modern, research-supported approach for adults living with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and major depressive disorder. This FDA-approved nasal spray works differently from traditional antidepressants by interacting with NMDA receptors in the brain — pathways involved in mood regulation and neural connectivity. Because of this unique mechanism, many patients experience relief more quickly than they do with standard medications.


Spravato® is administered on-site in our medically supervised treatment space, where a trained provider guides each session. After receiving the nasal spray, patients remain in our care for a minimum of two hours so our team can monitor blood pressure, comfort, and overall well-being throughout the process. This structured environment ensures safety while allowing patients to relax and feel fully supported during their session.

The Benefits of Spravato® Treatment

Spravato® (esketamine) offers a modern, research‑supported option for adults living with treatment‑resistant depression. This therapy is delivered in a structured, medically supervised environment designed to maximize safety, comfort, and therapeutic impact.

Many patients begin noticing changes within hours or days of their first Spravato® session. This rapid onset can be especially meaningful for individuals experiencing severe or persistent depressive symptoms, where waiting weeks for traditional medications to work may feel overwhelming.

Spravato® is FDA‑approved for adults who have not improved after trying at least two other antidepressants. For those who feel like they’ve exhausted their options, this treatment provides a new pathway when standard medications haven’t been enough.

Clinical research has shown that Spravato® can help reduce suicidal thinking in people with major depressive disorder. Its fast‑acting nature makes it an important option for individuals needing more immediate support during a mental health crisis.

Unlike medications that focus on serotonin or dopamine, Spravato® works through the brain’s glutamate system—an area involved in mood regulation and neural communication. This distinct mechanism may offer relief for patients who haven’t responded to conventional antidepressants.

Spravato® is administered only in certified treatment centers like Better Health Whole Wellness Center. Each session includes on‑site monitoring by trained medical professionals, controlled dosing, and a calm environment where patients can be observed for at least two hours to ensure safety and comfort.

Better Health Whole Wellness Center clinical team business cards in front office showing Alicia Loper MSN CRNP Bruce Saltzman MD Rachel Kent PA-C Kait McDermott NP and Maura Mullin at Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia ketamine therapy practice