Esketamine (nasal)

Generic name: esketamine (nasal) [ es-KET-a-meen ]
Brand name: Spravato
Dosage form: nasal spray (28 mg)
Drug class:Miscellaneous antidepressants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 1, 2020. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is esketamine?

Esketamine is a nasal spray that is used together with an oral (taken by mouth) antidepressant to treat adults with depression that is resistant to other treatments.

Esketamine is also used with an antidepressant taken by mouth to treat symptoms of depression in adults with major depressive disorder who have suicidal thoughts or actions. It is not known if esketamine can prevent suicide or reduce thoughts about suicide.

Esketamine is used only in a healthcare setting. You will not be able to use esketamine at home.

Esketamine is for use only under a special program. You must be registered in the program and understand the risks and benefits of this medicine.

Esketamine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Esketamine can cause severe drowsiness, or feelings of being disconnected from your body or thoughts or surroundings. Esketamine is used only in a healthcare setting where you can be watched closely for at least 2 hours after each dose. You will need someone to drive you home after using esketamine.

Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking esketamine. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with medicine if you are allergic to esketamine or ketamine, or if you have:

• a blood vessel disorder affecting your brain, chest, stomach, heart, or arms and legs;

• a history of aneurysm;

• a history of bleeding in your brain; or

• an abnormal connection between your veins and arteries (a condition called arteriovenous malformation).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• heart problems (such as chest pain, heart failure, or a heart valve disorder);

• slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint;

• high blood pressure;

• a heart attack or stroke;

• a brain injury or increased pressure in your brain;

• mental illness or psychosis;

• a family history of depression;

• alcoholism or drug addiction; or

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