Yes, You Need a Driver After Spravato
Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray requires treatment at a certified healthcare facility under REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) due to risks of sedation, dissociation, and blood pressure increases. Patients cannot drive or operate machinery for the rest of the treatment day.[1][2]
What Happens During and Right After Treatment?
Sessions last about 2 hours: self-administration of 1-2 doses (28-84 mg), followed by 2 hours of monitoring for side effects like dizziness, nausea, or perceptual changes. You stay until cleared by staff, but effects can linger beyond that.[1]
How Long Until You Can Drive Safely?
No driving for at least 24 hours post-dose, even if symptoms resolve. Most patients feel impaired for 4-8 hours, but full recovery varies. The FDA label states: "Patients must be accompanied home by a caregiver." Schedule transport in advance.[1][2]
Who Counts as a Caregiver or Driver?
An adult (not the patient) who can drive you home and monitor you. Family, friends, or ride services qualify, but public transit alone doesn't—someone must accompany you. Clinics often verify this before treatment.[3]
What If You Drive Anyway?
Risk of accidents from lingering sedation. It's against REMS rules, potentially voiding insurance or leading to legal issues. Clinics document caregiver arrangements and won't administer without one.[1]
Alternatives If No Driver Is Available?
Reschedule treatment. No at-home option exists; all doses occur in certified centers. Telehealth follow-ups happen separately.[2]
Sources
[1]: Spravato Prescribing Information (FDA)
[2]: Spravato REMS Program
[3]: Janssen Spravato Patient Guide