Ketamine and Spravato are closely related, but they are not the same treatment. Here is how they compare, and how we help you choose.
Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, a molecule derived from ketamine. So the two share a common origin. Where they differ is in how they are given, what the FDA has approved them for, and how insurance treats them. At ReNew Wellness we offer both, which means the goal is not picking a "winner" but matching the right tool to your situation.
| Ketamine Therapy | Spravato (Esketamine) | |
|---|---|---|
| FDA status | Used off-label for mental health (FDA-approved as an anesthetic for over 50 years) | FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and for depression with acute suicidal thoughts |
| How it is given | Low-dose IV infusion, administered and monitored by our clinical team | Nasal spray you self-administer in our office under nursing supervision |
| Conditions | Depression, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, postpartum depression, chronic pain | Treatment-resistant depression and major depression with suicidal ideation |
| Typical course | Around 6 sessions over 3 to 4 weeks, tailored to how you respond | A structured induction and maintenance schedule set by the FDA protocol |
| In-office monitoring | Continuous monitoring during the session: vitals, video, and a call light | A required two-hour monitoring period after each dose |
| Insurance | Medication not covered (off-label); we bill for the clinical monitoring time | Often covered in full for treatment-resistant depression |
The most obvious difference is delivery. Ketamine is given as a carefully dosed IV infusion, with our nursing team managing the dose and monitoring you continuously. Spravato is a nasal spray you administer yourself, in the office, with a nurse supervising and a required two-hour observation period afterward. Both keep you fully supported, just in different ways.
This is often the deciding factor. Because Spravato is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, most major plans cover it, frequently in full. Ketamine is used off-label, so the medication itself is not covered by insurance. We do bill your plan for the clinical time and monitoring, and our team verifies your benefits before you commit to anything.
There is no universally "better" option. Ketamine offers flexibility and treats a wider range of conditions, including PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain. Spravato offers an FDA-approved, usually insurance-covered pathway specifically for treatment-resistant depression. Because we offer both, your provider can help you choose at your initial evaluation, and adjust course later if your needs change.
Not exactly. Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, a molecule derived from ketamine. Ketamine therapy uses generic ketamine, usually as a low-dose IV infusion, while Spravato is an FDA-approved nasal spray. They are related but given and approved differently.
Often, yes. Because Spravato is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, most major insurance plans cover it, frequently in full. Ketamine is used off-label, so the medication is not covered, though we bill insurance for the clinical monitoring time.
There is no single answer. Both help treatment-resistant depression, and the right choice depends on your diagnosis, insurance, and how you respond. Your provider helps you decide at your evaluation.
Yes. Because ReNew offers both, your provider can adjust your plan over time based on your response, coverage, and goals. Some patients start with one and transition to the other.
That is exactly what your initial evaluation is for. Call us and we will help you weigh ketamine, Spravato, and TMS against your diagnosis, insurance, and goals.
Call (480) 630-1733