Taking Spravato® for the first time can be an exciting experience, given the numerous benefits it can deliver. After your first Spravato® administration, you will need to remain at your appointment for two hours so that your provider can monitor you for any possible side effects.
Spravato® can also result in some sedation, making this monitoring period a good time to relax and engage in some low-key activities. Wondering what to do during your Spravato® monitoring? Here are four productive ways to pass the time during your monitoring session after Spravato administration.
Reading
If you do not experience significant sedation during the observation period, you may feel comfortable engaging in some light reading. A favorite magazine or novel might be a good idea. Books that require extensive focus or are about stressful subjects might not be the right fit. The goal here is to give your body and mind space and time to relax and adjust.
Listening to Music
Listening to music is one of the best ways to pass the time during the Spravato® monitoring period, and it can help with the mild anxiety some patients experience for a short time immediately after administration. Soothing music helps you relax, for one. It can also keep you engaged and occupied … though you definitely don’t want to get up and dance! Choose a musical selection that you enjoy for relaxation. Your doctor and nurses may also have their own selections and recommendations. Feel free to bring headphones and a favorite playlist to your treatment visits.
Meditating
If you are practiced at meditation, the monitoring period can be a great time to engage in this healthful habit. Take the space during the 2-hour monitoring session to run through mantras, engage with breathing exercises and clear your mind. The myriad benefits that come with meditation can only add value to this essential part of the Spravato® administration process.
Just Relaxing
Of course, there’s always just the option of relaxing and letting yourself get comfortable! You may well have significant feelings of sedation during the monitoring period after Spravato®. This might prevent you from engaging in activities that require more alertness, such as reading. It is perfectly fine to relax into the experience and give yourself the space to rest.
Checking in With Yourself
Whatever you choose to do during this time, it is important to check in with your body during the monitoring period, as well.
For example, Spravato® can cause your blood pressure to rise temporarily for up to 4 hours after your dose. Your health care team will monitor your blood pressure before and after your session, but it is important for you to monitor your symptoms, too.
Let your health care provider know if you experience any chest pains, shortness of breath, sudden severe headache, changes in your vision, or abnormal movements after administration of Spravato®. While minor and temporary changes in cognition, including difficulty remembering or feeling like you cannot think clearly, are common immediately after administration, these effects typically resolve within a few minutes to hours after treatment. Please let your provider know if these symptoms are causing significant anxiety or distress.
When you get ready to leave after your monitoring period, go over your plans for the rest of the day with your health care provider. They can advise you whether or not any of your planned activities are safe and recommended in the 24-hour period after taking Spravato®. All patients should avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, engaging in potentially hazardous activities, or making major decisions until the day after treatment.
Get the Treatment You Need Today
Have you been considering Spravato® to treat your depression? Get in touch with one of our professionals today. They can discuss your options with you and help you determine whether Spravato® is the right option for you.