Ketamine vs. SPRAVATO®: Which Treatment Option is Best for Your Depression?
Serving Gulfport & Ocean Springs, MS, and Pensacola, FL
Depression is more than just feeling down — it’s a complex, often debilitating mental health condition that affects millions of people across the U.S. If traditional antidepressants haven’t worked for you, innovative treatments like Ketamine infusions and SPRAVATO® (esketamine) may offer new hope. At Gulf Coast NeuroSpa, with locations in Gulfport and Ocean Springs, MS, and Pensacola, FL, we specialize in advanced depression therapies tailored to your individual needs.
But what’s the difference between Ketamine and SPRAVATO®, and which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
What Is Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine is a well-known anesthetic that has gained widespread attention for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects. Administered in low doses through IV infusion, Ketamine therapy targets the brain’s glutamate system — a different mechanism than traditional antidepressants.
Benefits of Ketamine Therapy:
- Fast-acting relief, often within hours or days
- Effective for treatment-resistant depression
- May help with suicidal thoughts
- No need for daily medication
How It’s Administered:
Ketamine infusions are typically done in a controlled clinical setting. At Gulf Coast NeuroSpa, patients relax in a monitored environment during a 45-60 minute IV session, with treatments typically spaced out over several weeks.
What Is SPRAVATO® (Esketamine)?
SPRAVATO® is the FDA-approved nasal spray version of esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. It’s specifically approved for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation.
Benefits of SPRAVATO®:
- FDA-approved for depression treatment
- Administered under medical supervision
- Often covered by insurance
- Provides relief for patients who haven’t responded to oral antidepressants
How It’s Administered:
SPRAVATO® is given in-office at Gulf Coast NeuroSpa locations in Gulfport, Ocean Springs, and Pensacola, where patients self-administer the nasal spray under supervision and remain for observation for about two hours.
Ketamine vs. SPRAVATO®: Key Differences
| Feature | Ketamine IV Therapy | SPRAVATO® Nasal Spray |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Approval | Off-label for depression | FDA-approved for depression |
| Method of Delivery | Intravenous (IV) infusion | Nasal spray under supervision |
| Insurance Coverage | Often out-of-pocket | Frequently covered by insurance |
| Administration Time | 45–60 minutes | 2+ hours including monitoring |
| Suitable For | Patients with treatment-resistant depression, suicidal thoughts | Same, plus those seeking FDA-approved options |
Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between Ketamine and SPRAVATO® depends on several factors, including your medical history, current symptoms, insurance coverage, and personal preferences.
You may be a good candidate for Ketamine infusions if:
- You need rapid symptom relief
- You’re open to off-label treatments
- You prefer IV therapy over nasal sprays
You may prefer SPRAVATO® if:
- You want an FDA-approved option
- You have insurance coverage
- You’re comfortable with supervised nasal spray treatments
At Gulf Coast NeuroSpa, we’ll walk you through both options during a personalized consultation and help determine the best fit for your needs and goals.
Why Choose Gulf Coast NeuroSpa?
With convenient locations in Gulfport and Ocean Springs, MS, and Pensacola, FL, Gulf Coast NeuroSpa is your trusted provider for advanced mental health treatments. Our expert team is highly trained in both Ketamine therapy and SPRAVATO® administration, and we pride ourselves on offering compassionate, cutting-edge care.
Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, you don’t have to face it alone. We’re here to help.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re in Gulfport, Ocean Springs, or Pensacola, and you’re struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to traditional treatment, contact Gulf Coast NeuroSpa today. Schedule a consultation to discuss Ketamine vs. SPRAVATO® and discover a path forward.
📞 Call now or request an appointment online to get started.
Let healing begin—because you deserve to feel better.