Esketamine Treatment
A new generation of care for individuals who haven’t found relief through traditional antidepressants
What is Esketamine Treatment and when is it considered?
Esketamine is a promising therapy for adults with treatment-resistant depression—especially where other medications haven’t provided enough symptom relief. Delivered as a clinically supervised nasal spray, Esketamine may provide improvement in depressive symptoms for some individuals.
At Fullarton Clinic, we provide Esketamine Treatment in a safe, purpose-built hospital environment as part of a personalised mental health treatment plan. Our multidisciplinary team includes Psychiatrists, Nurses, and Allied Health professionals who will guide you through every step of your care.
Esketamine may be suitable when:
- At least two previous antidepressants have been ineffective
- Traditional medications have caused difficult side effects
- A quick response is needed due to the severity of Depression
- There’s a preference for a new treatment approach
- May be considered in more severe presentations of depression
A Psychiatrist will assess your symptoms, medical history, and previous treatments to determine whether Esketamine is appropriate for you.
What to Expect with Esketamine Treatment
Esketamine is typically delivered in structured phases, beginning with more frequent sessions and gradually reducing based on your response and personalised treatment plan.
Duration and intensity may vary depending on your clinical needs and your psychiatrist’s recommendation.
- Mode: Nasal spray (Spravato®), self-administered under the supervision of our clinical team
- Frequency: Typically twice weekly during the initial phase, followed by weekly or fortnightly sessions as part of a maintenance plan
- Adjunctive Care: Often used in combination with an oral antidepressant, as prescribed by your Psychiatrist
Esketamine is delivered in structured phases, starting more frequently and reducing based on your response.
Safety, Monitoring and Support
Esketamine is administered in a clinical setting under the supervision of specialists to ensure your safety during the treatment process.
- Supervision and Monitoring: Treatment is provided at our private hospital, Fullarton Clinic, with time allocated after each session for monitoring to support your safety and comfort
- Aftercare Requirements: You will need to arrange transport home, as driving is not permitted until the following day
- Inpatient Care: Some individuals receiving Esketamine treatment may also require inpatient care, depending on their clinical needs. This will be determined by your treating psychiatrist
Our team will closely monitor your response throughout treatment, supporting your safety, wellbeing, and overall progress.
Potential Side Effects of Esketamine Treatment
As with any medication, some side effects may occur.
These are typically mild and short lived but may include:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Nausea
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Increased blood pressure (temporary)
- Feeling disconnected or dissociated shortly after treatment
These effects usually resolve within a few hours. Patients remain under observation following each treatment session to ensure safety and wellbeing before returning home.
Your treating Psychiatrist will carefully assess your suitability and talk you through potential risks and benefits.
Maintaining Wellness and Safety, With You in Control
Your care doesn’t end after a single phase of treatment — we continue to support your progress with options that respect your needs and preferences.
Esketamine is administered in a calm, private setting within our hospital, providing immediate support if needed. Patients remain under observation for a short period after each session to ensure comfort and safety.
Esketamine is often part of a broader treatment plan, including Inpatient Treatment, Counselling, medications, or Day Programs to support long term wellness.
At Fullarton Clinic, your care is guided by informed choice. Our team is here to answer your questions, explain all available options, and ensure you feel informed, supported, and respected throughout your treatment.
For a detailed cost breakdown and more information on the process, download our brochure.
Ongoing monitoring and review are part of every Esketamine care plan.
Esketamine: Approved Access and Clinical Perspective
Esketamine is a newer class of antidepressant approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia and is becoming increasingly accessible through supported treatment pathways.
“For the first time, we have a Government-funded medicine specifically for people trapped in an acute depressive episode despite treatment with multiple antidepressants.”
— Professor Ian Hickie, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney
Frequently Asked Questions about our Esketamine Treatment
Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions our patients and their families ask. If you’d like to speak to someone directly, our team can discuss your concerns and provide further support.
Considering Esketamine Treatment?
If you’ve struggled to find relief through traditional medications, Esketamine may offer a new path forward. Our team is here to explore your options with care and clinical expertise. Contact us to learn more about the treatment and the admission process.
