Informed Consent
This is the patient informed consent document (ICD) for Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray.
This ICD describes the treatment that your psychiatrist has prescribed and outlines the risks,
potential benefits, and alternative treatments if you decide not to proceed with Spravato® (esketamine).
You will be receiving Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray for the treatment of
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD).
What is Spravato® (esketamine)?
Spravato® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved medication used to treat symptoms of major depressive disorder
and treatment-resistant depression. It is administered via nasal spray.
Spravato® works through NMDA receptor antagonism to relieve symptoms of depression and is indicated
for use in conjunction with an oral antidepressant medication.
How does it work?
Spravato® is an intranasal treatment requiring a minimum two-hour observation visit
(longer if medically necessary before safe discharge).
A physician will assist in administering the medication, and dosage will be determined and adjusted
by the treating psychiatrist over the course of treatment.
A trained staff member will monitor the patient, including blood pressure checks at least every 40 minutes.
Once medically stable, the patient will be discharged to a responsible adult for transportation home.
Patients must arrange transportation prior to treatment, as they should not drive or operate heavy machinery
on the day of treatment.
Treatment typically begins with twice-weekly sessions for four weeks, followed by once-weekly treatments
for an additional four weeks. Ongoing treatment frequency will be determined by the psychiatrist
based on individual response.
During treatment, patients will complete the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (Ham-D)
to monitor symptom severity and treatment progress.
The duration of treatment varies and will be determined collaboratively between patient and provider
based on a risk-benefit assessment.
Is the treatment effective?
Multiple studies have demonstrated that Spravato® is effective in improving depressive symptoms,
often within the first month, and may support sustained remission compared to placebo.
Patients with questions regarding clinical data are encouraged to discuss these with their psychiatrist.
Contraindications and Risks
Spravato® is administered intranasally and carries certain risks and contraindications.
The treating psychiatrist will evaluate suitability for treatment.
Patients must inform their provider if they have:
- Blood vessel disorders (aneurysmal vascular disease)
- Arteriovenous malformations
- History of intracerebral hemorrhage
- Allergy to ketamine, esketamine, or its components
Boxed Warnings:
- Risk of sedation and dissociation
- Potential for abuse and misuse
- Available only through Spravato® REMS program
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in certain populations
Spravato® may cause temporary increases in blood pressure.
Blood pressure will be monitored and treatment may be stopped if levels become unsafe.
Nausea and vomiting may occur. Patients should not eat for 2 hours prior
or drink liquids within 30 minutes before treatment.
Patients must not drive or operate machinery until the following day.
Other nasal medications should not be used within one hour of Spravato® administration.
Possible side effects include sedation, dissociation, dizziness, lethargy, and vertigo.
All side effects should be reported to the psychiatrist.
Patients must disclose all medications to ensure safe treatment.
Female patients should use effective birth control during treatment.
Notify your provider immediately if pregnancy occurs.
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment.
Insurance coverage will be coordinated by providers; however, patients are responsible
for any costs not covered by insurance.
I understand that alternative treatments exist, including medications, psychotherapy,
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT).
I understand that no guarantees of results have been made.
I authorize emergency treatment if deemed necessary by the provider.
I understand I may withdraw consent at any time and choose alternative treatment.
I voluntarily consent to receive Spravato® (esketamine) treatment.