Preparing for your first Spravato visit can help you understand the treatment process and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Knowing what to expect during the appointment may also make the experience more comfortable and informed. Here is a closer look at what you need to know before your first Spravato visit:
Confirm Eligibility and Prepare
Your provider reviews your medical history first to confirm that Spravato fits your situation. They will ask about the antidepressants you have taken, how long you used them, and whether your symptoms improved. This step helps your care team build a plan that matches your needs, and it supports safer and informed decisions.
Preparation also involves practical steps you can complete before the visit. Your provider may give you specific instructions about eating and drinking, and following them helps your appointment go smoothly. Here are a few habits that can make the day easier:
- Limit food beforehand: Your provider may ask you to avoid eating for a set period before treatment to reduce the chance of nausea.
- Skip fluids close to the appointment: You may need to stop drinking liquids shortly before the spray is given.
- Bring a list of medications: A written list helps your care team check for any interactions.
Arrange Transportation and Scheduling
You cannot drive after a Spravato session, so you must plan your ride home in advance. The medication can affect alertness for the rest of the day, and driving yourself is not permitted. Arrange for a friend, a family member, or a rideshare service before you arrive.
Scheduling also plays a key role in your treatment. During the early phase, appointments often occur twice a week, and the frequency may change over time. Your provider will explain the schedule for your plan so you can arrange work and personal commitments around it.
Understand Treatment and Monitoring
On the day of your appointment, you will self-administer the nasal spray under staff supervision. A member of your care team shows you how to use the device and stays nearby throughout the process. You will remain in a comfortable and quiet space designed for the session.
After you take the spray, staff check your blood pressure and observe your response for about two hours. This step is fundamental to your safety and allows the team to note any reactions early. Here is what monitoring usually includes:
- Blood pressure checks: Staff measure your blood pressure before and after treatment.
- Alertness checks: The team watches for drowsiness or dizziness.
- A quiet recovery space: You stay in a calm area until the team clears you to leave.
Manage Side Effects and Aftercare
Some people experience side effects during or after a session, and knowing about them ahead of time helps you prepare. Common effects include dizziness, nausea, and a feeling of detachment. These effects usually fade within the monitoring period, though your provider will explain what to expect for you.
Aftercare centers on rest and support once you return home. Plan a quiet evening, avoid demanding tasks, and let your body settle. Do not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day, and follow any further guidance your provider gives. Staying in touch with your provider between visits is helpful. Tell them about any lingering effects, and ask questions as they come up.
Schedule Your Spravato Treatment Appointment
Preparing for your first Spravato visit comes down to a few clear steps. These include confirming your eligibility, following the preparation instructions, and arranging your transportation. You should also follow the outlined aftercare recommendations and stay in close contact with your provider. Contact a qualified psychiatrist near you to schedule your Spravato treatment appointment today.
