Frequently Asked Questions

Ketamine and Spravato share a similar mechanism of action and are chemically related but distinct in their chemical composition.  Ketamine is a chiral molecule, meaning it has two mirror-image forms or “enantiomers” known as R-Ketamine and S-Ketamine. Like your hands, they look similar but cannot be superimposed.  When these enantiomers are combined in equal parts, this is Racemic Ketamine.  Racemic Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic approved in the US for inducing and maintaining anesthesia via IV infusion or IM injection.  It does not have FDA approval for treatment of mood disorders although it is frequently used off-label for such indications.  When a drug or device is approved for medical use by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the manufacturer produces a “label” to explain its use.  Once a device/medication is approved by the FDA, physicians may use it “off-label” for other purposes if they are well informed about the product, base its use on firm scientific method and sound medical evidence, and maintain records of its use and effects.  Spravato (esketamine) is the (S) enantiomer of racemic ketamine and is FDA approved for adults with treatment resistant depression and adults with major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions.

We do require a referral for treatment.  Our clinic provides specialty services only, meaning we do not provide any medication or psychiatric management aside from Spravato or Ketamine treatments.  Therefore, it is important to have your primary provider be involved in the decision to start Spravato or Ketamine therapy especially in the event treatments are not effective or well tolerated.  Have your provider fill out a referral form attached below and fax to our office.  If your provider would like to speak with one of our physicians, we would be happy to arrange a call.   If you do not currently have a provider, we have an arrangement with Springfield Psychiatry and may be able to expedite an appointment for you.

Ketamine infusions are not covered by insurance. Spravato treatments are generally covered by insurance depending upon your plan. We will complete a benefits check at the time of your consultation to determine what your insurance plan will cover.

We do not prescribe Ketamine for home use. 

We do not offer psychiatric medication management aside from Ketamine and Spravato, and require you to have and maintain a primary psychiatric provider during treatment.  If you do not currently have a provider, we partner with Springfield Psychiatry & Addiction Medicine and may be able to expedite an appointment to establish care.  https://spgpsych.com/