Esketamine Treatment
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Mental Health Crisis Call Line
If you are in crisis, call the Mental Health Crisis Call Line at (585) 275-8686. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
What is Esketamine Treatment?
Esketamine is an FDA-approved nasal spray treatment for adults with treatment-resistant depression — particularly for those who haven't found relief with traditional antidepressants.
University of Rochester Medicine provides this innovative therapy in a safe, supervised outpatient setting. Many patients experience relief within hours or days, offering new hope when other treatments haven't worked.
A different path forward may be possible—get started with esketamine treament
Take the First StepWhat Is the Difference Between Ketamine and Esketamine?
Esketamine is the FDA-approved nasal spray form of ketamine, specifically designed for treatment-resistant depression. While related, esketamine is administered as a supervised nasal spray, whereas ketamine infusion therapy is delivered intravenously.
What Conditions Does Esketamine Treat?
Esketamine is used for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation.
What Are the Side Effects of Esketamine Treatment?
Common side effects may include:
- Feeling disconnected from yourself or your surroundings (dissociation)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Sleepiness or sedation
- Increased blood pressure
Our Approach
During each treatment session, our team of psychiatrists, nurses, and technicians will evaluate, guide, and monitor you as you self-administer the nasal spray.
After treatment, you will need to arrange transportation home. You will not be able to drive, operate machinery, or make significant legal or financial decisions until the following day after a restful night's sleep.
How Long Does Esketamine Treatment Take?
After you administer the esketamine nasal spray, you will relax in a comfortable chair and be closely monitored for at least 2 hours. This observation period allows us to manage any potential side effects, which are typically temporary and improve before you leave the clinic.
Initial treatment typically involves two sessions per week for four weeks. After this initial phase, our psychiatrist will reassess your progress and adjust the frequency and duration of your treatment as needed.
What Sets Us Apart?
Working together with patients, families, and our community, we promote mental health and wellness by providing care that is accessible, individualized, and enriched through teaching and research.
Expert, Specialized Care
Our psychiatrists and nursing staff specialize in esketamine therapy and participate actively in your treatment journey—from initial consultation through ongoing care.
Comprehensive Mental Health Services
As part of University of Rochester Medicine, we offer seamless access to a full range of adult psychiatric services, ensuring coordinated care for all your mental health needs.
Research-Backed Treatment
Our approach is grounded in the latest clinical research, with access to cutting-edge therapies and clinical trials available only at leading academic health systems.
Ready to Explore Esketamine Treatment?
Complete Our Referral FormLocations
View All LocationsWe serve you in the Rochester metropolitan area and surrounding region. Locations are ordered by distance, with those closest to listed first.
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