Christian Health Launches Innovative SPRAVATO® (Esketamine) Program for Clients With Treatment-Resistant Depression

SPRAVATO®is the first and only FDA-approved nasal spray for adults with TRD or suicidal ideation. It’s the first Hospital-based program of its kind in northern New Jersey.

Christian Health announced the launch of its SPRAVATO® program. This innovative program is designed to support the nearly 30 percent of individuals living with major depressive disorder and help to eliminate daily oral medications. Instead, clients can now self-administer SPRAVATO® (Esketamine) nasal spray under the supervision of Christian Health’s board-certified psychiatrists and advanced practice nurses, with registered nurses providing additional client support. This breakthrough treatment has shown a rapid and superior reduction in depressive symptoms following four weeks of treatment, with a significant reduction in symptoms after only 24 hours, according to Janssen.

“The launch of our SPRAVATO® program represents a significant step forward in expanding access to innovative mental health care and providing treatment options for those in need,” said Stephen J. Dumke, President and CEO of Christian Health. “With the FDA’s recent approval of SPRAVATO® as the first and only monotherapy for adults with TRD, this advancement allows us to bring rapid relief to more individuals, improving lives and strengthening the well-being of our community.”

Once referred to the program, clients undergo a comprehensive consultation to learn more about the treatment process and eligibility requirements. Once completed, clients begin an initial four-week treatment phase, with two visits per week, followed by once-weekly treatment in weeks five to eight, and finally an ongoing maintenance plan. Clients are monitored for two hours after each treatment, and the clinic’s professionals check their vitals before discharge. Clients then have the option to continue therapy and psychiatric care as part of Christian Health’s integrated treatment plan.

“As clinicians, we have seen firsthand the significant need for this treatment in the community and are proud to provide a safe, controlled setting overseen by highly credentialed providers for clients to access rapid relief,” Alexis Totaro, MSN, RN, WHNP-c, CARN-AP, Christian Health Vice President of Mental Health Services and Chief Nurse Executive who oversees the SPRAVATO® program. “This therapy is truly transformative and offers hope to those who have struggled with other treatments.”

This modern, comfortable treatment program is located in Christian Health’s LiveWell Counseling center at 301 Sicomac Ave., Wyckoff, NJ 07481. To learn more, visit Christian Health's SPRAVATO® program page.

###

About Christian Health
Since 1911, Christian Health’s mission has been to offer a listening ear, a helpful hand, and steady, supportive guidance throughout an individual’s wellness journey. As a nonprofit organization founded on the belief that everyone has the right to exceptional care, we continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our community. Christian Health’s comprehensive continuum of mental health services, communities for adults and older adults, rehabilitation services, and educational programs foster physical health and nourish the spirit. Caring is not simply what we do; it is who we are.

Media Contact:
Kelly Tanis
(201) 848-5921
KTanis@ChristianHealthNJ.org

Important Safety Information
Information for Consumers
Information for Healthcare Professionals
Prescribing Information

The information provided above about SPRAVATO^® Esketamine is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a medical professional regarding your individual treatment plan.