Spravato vs. Ketamine Infusion Therapy in Portsmouth, Ohio: What’s Right for You?

By Dr. Olivetta N. Uradu, MD

Understanding Your Treatment Options

Deciding between Spravato (esketamine) and ketamine infusion therapy can feel like a big decision—especially if you’ve been dealing with depression, anxiety, or trauma that hasn’t improved with traditional medications.

At Amazing Grace Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, we understand that reaching this point often means you’ve already tried multiple treatments without getting the relief you deserve. That’s why we take a thoughtful, individualized approach to care.

While the right treatment always starts with a full evaluation by a licensed psychiatric provider, having a clear understanding of your options can make that first conversation feel more empowering.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the differences between Spravato and ketamine infusion therapy so you can make a confident, informed decision about your mental health care.

How Spravato and Ketamine Therapy Work

Both Spravato and ketamine infusion therapy belong to a newer approach in psychiatry that works differently from traditional antidepressants.

Instead of focusing mainly on serotonin, these treatments target NMDA receptors in the brain. This leads to a rapid increase in glutamate, which helps rebuild and strengthen connections between brain cells.

For many patients, this means:

• Faster relief from depressive symptoms

• Reduction in suicidal thoughts

• Improved mood and emotional clarity

• A renewed ability to engage in daily life

These treatments are especially helpful for:

• Treatment-resistant depression

• Severe anxiety

• PTSD

• Depression with suicidal thoughts

At Amazing Grace Center, we often see patients begin to feel shifts within days to weeks—something that can feel life-changing after months or years of struggling.

Key Differences: What to Expect

While both treatments can be highly effective, they are not the same. Understanding how they differ can help you think through what might fit best with your lifestyle and comfort level.

Administration and Treatment Experience

Spravato (Esketamine):

Spravato is a nasal spray that is administered in the clinic under supervision.

• Typically given twice weekly at the start

• Then spaced out to weekly or every other week

• You’ll stay in the clinic for at least 2 hours after each session

• You’ll need someone to drive you home

This option offers a more structured schedule and is closely monitored through a REMS-certified program.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy:

Ketamine infusions are given through an IV in a calm, monitored setting.

• Each session lasts about 40–60 minutes

• Initial treatment often includes 6 sessions over 2–3 weeks

• Maintenance sessions are scheduled based on how you respond

Many patients describe the infusion experience as deeply introspective or calming, especially when paired with a supportive environment.

Side Effects and Safety

Both treatments are generally well tolerated, but like any medical treatment, they can come with side effects.

Common side effects include:

• Dizziness

• Dissociation (feeling detached or dreamlike)

• Nausea

• Sleepiness

• Temporary increase in blood pressure

These effects usually resolve within a few hours after treatment.

At Amazing Grace Center, your safety is our priority. Every session includes monitoring, support, and time to recover before leaving. You won’t be rushed—we make sure you feel stable and safe before going home.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Spravato:

• Requires ongoing, structured treatments

• Usually weekly or biweekly during maintenance

• Built into a consistent routine

Ketamine Infusions:

• Maintenance is more flexible

• Booster sessions may be needed every few weeks

• Frequency depends on how long relief lasts for you

Some patients prefer the predictability of Spravato, while others appreciate the flexibility of infusion therapy.

How to Decide What’s Right for You

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer—and that’s okay. The right choice depends on your story, your body, and your goals.

Here are a few things to think about before your consultation:

1. Your Medical History

If you have certain medical conditions, like uncontrolled high blood pressure, your provider may guide you toward one option over the other for safety.

2. Your Past Treatment Experience

If you’ve tried multiple antidepressants without relief, both options may help—but some patients respond better to one than the other.

3. Cost and Insurance

• Spravato is FDA-approved and often covered by insurance

• Ketamine infusions are typically out-of-pocket

We’ll help you understand your options clearly, no surprises.

4. Your Lifestyle

• Can you commit to frequent, structured visits?

• Or do you need more flexibility in scheduling?

5. Support System

Both treatments require someone to drive you home. It’s important to have a plan in place.

6. Mental Health Support

These treatments work best when paired with therapy or ongoing psychiatric care. At Amazing Grace Center, we integrate mental health care with addiction treatment, so you’re supported on every level.

Why Choose Amazing Grace Center

At Amazing Grace Center in Portsmouth, Ohio, we do things differently. We don’t just offer treatment—we build a plan around you.

Compassionate, Judgment-Free Care

We understand that mental health and substance use are deeply personal. You’ll be met with respect, not assumptions.

Expert Psychiatric Team

Our providers specialize in treating complex mental health conditions, including treatment-resistant depression and co-occurring substance use.

Integrated Mental Health and Addiction Care

If you’re navigating both, you don’t have to go to separate places. We treat the whole picture.

Safe, Comfortable Environment

Your treatment experience matters. We’ve created a space where you can feel at ease during each session.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Whether you choose Spravato or ketamine infusion therapy, your plan will be tailored to your needs—not a template.

Taking the Next Step

If you’ve been feeling stuck, exhausted, or like nothing has worked—this may be the next step worth exploring.

You don’t have to figure it out alone.

At Amazing Grace Center, we’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you decide what feels right for you.

When you’re ready, we’re here.

Key Takeaways

• Spravato and ketamine therapy both offer rapid relief for treatment-resistant depression

• They work differently than traditional antidepressants by targeting glutamate pathways

• Spravato is structured and often covered by insurance, while ketamine infusions offer more flexibility

• Side effects are typically short-lived and monitored in a safe clinical setting

• The best choice depends on your medical history, lifestyle, and treatment goals

• Amazing Grace Center provides integrated, compassionate mental health and addiction care in Portsmouth, Ohio