Medically supervised esketamine in Dubai
When traditional antidepressants have not brought you the relief you have been searching for, it is natural to feel discouraged. But there is hope. At Valens Clinic, we offer Esketamine nasal spray treatment, a breakthrough, evidence-based therapy designed for treatment-resistant depression. Administered in our safe, medically supervised environment by DHA-licensed psychiatric specialists, Esketamine offers a new pathway to healing for those who need it most. You do not have to navigate this journey alone.
Understanding esketamine therapy for depression
Esketamine (Spravato) is a rapid-acting antidepressant nasal spray that works differently from traditional SSRIs and other conventional antidepressant medications. While most antidepressants target serotonin pathways, esketamine acts on glutamate receptors in the brain, the most abundant neurotransmitter system involved in mood regulation and brain plasticity.
This FDA-approved treatment is indicated for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), where someone has not responded adequately to at least two different antidepressant treatments. Esketamine is used as an adjunctive therapy, meaning it is taken alongside your current oral antidepressant. By promoting new neural connections and supporting brain plasticity, esketamine can help restore pathways that depression has disrupted, often providing relief more rapidly than traditional antidepressant therapies
You can also read more about Esketamine’s benefits and limitations to better understand how this treatment is used in clinical care
Is esketamine nasal spray right for you?
Esketamine nasal spray is not the first step for depression treatment. It is usually considered when symptoms continue despite standard care. If any of the situations below sound familiar, a consultation with a DHA-licensed psychiatrist can help you understand whether esketamine for treatment-resistant depression is a suitable option
Traditional Treatments Are Not Working
You have tried two or more antidepressants and followed a treatment plan, but symptoms are still there. If you are experiencing treatment-resistant depression (TRD), esketamine may be worth exploring
Seeking a Faster Response
Traditional antidepressants can take weeks to work. Many people notice changes with esketamine within hours to days, although results vary
Persistent Symptoms Affect Daily Life
Ongoing low mood and emotional heaviness can make daily tasks feel harder and impact work and relationships. If depression is still limiting your life despite your efforts, specialised care may help
Medically Supervised Support
Esketamine is given in a clinical setting with structured monitoring. At Valens Clinic, it is administered and observed by DHA-licensed psychiatric specialists, with safety and comfort as priorities
Your esketamine treatment journey at Valens Clinic
Esketamine treatment at Valens Clinic is delivered through a structured, medically supervised process designed for safety, comfort, and personalised care. Here is what to expect at each step
Comprehensive Consultation
Your journey starts with a full psychiatric evaluation by our DHA-licensed specialists. We review your medical and psychiatric history, discuss previous treatment attempts, and assess whether esketamine is appropriate for your needs. This helps us build a personalised treatment plan
Administering the Nasal Spray
On treatment days, you will self-administer the esketamine nasal spray under the direct supervision of our medical team. Our specialists guide you through the process and remain available for support during administration
Comfortable Observation Period
After treatment, you will stay in our private clinic space for around two hours while our team monitors your vital signs and overall response. This observation period is an essential part of safe care. You will need someone to accompany you home, as you should not drive on treatment days
Meet Our Specialised Psychiatrists
At Valens Clinic, your Esketamine treatment is led by experienced, DHA-licensed psychiatrists who specialize in treatment-resistant depression and innovative psychiatric interventions. Our clinical team has received specialized training in Spravato administration and brings a compassionate, evidence-based approach to every patient’s care.
We understand that choosing a new treatment requires trust. Our specialists combine clinical excellence with genuine empathy, creating a therapeutic environment where you feel heard, supported, and confident in your care. Each member of our team is committed to staying at the forefront of psychiatric innovation while never losing sight of the person behind the diagnosis
Esketamine Treatment FAQs
Considering esketamine treatment can bring up a lot of questions. Below, we answer common questions about eligibility, safety, side effects, and the treatment process
1. Is Esketamine the same as Ketamine?
While Esketamine and Ketamine are related compounds, they are not identical. Esketamine is the S-enantiomer of Ketamine and is specifically formulated as a nasal spray (marketed as Spravato). It has been rigorously tested and FDA-approved specifically for treatment-resistant depression when used alongside an oral antidepressant. The nasal spray formulation allows for precise dosing and administration in a clinical setting under medical supervision
2. How soon will I see results?
Many patients begin noticing improvements within hours to days after their first treatment, though individual responses vary. Unlike traditional antidepressants that typically require 4-6 weeks to show effects, Esketamine’s rapid-acting mechanism often provides relief much more quickly. The initial treatment phase typically involves twice-weekly sessions for the first month, with frequency adjusted based on your response and clinical needs
3. What are the side effects?
Common side effects may include dissociation (feeling detached from reality), dizziness, nausea, sedation, increased blood pressure, and distorted perception during and shortly after treatment. These effects are typically temporary and resolve within the 2-hour observation period. This is why medical monitoring is essential and why you cannot drive yourself home after treatment. Our team will discuss all potential side effects during your consultation and monitor you closely during each session
4. Is the treatment covered by insurance in Dubai?
Insurance coverage for Esketamine treatment varies by provider and policy. We recommend contacting your insurance company directly to inquire about coverage for Spravato or Esketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression. Our administrative team at Valens Clinic can provide the necessary documentation and treatment codes to support your insurance inquiry and help facilitate the process
5. How long does treatment last?
Treatment duration is personalized based on your response and clinical needs. The typical protocol begins with twice-weekly sessions during the first month (induction phase), followed by weekly sessions, and eventually transitioning to maintenance dosing as determined by your psychiatrist. Some patients continue with monthly maintenance treatments to sustain their improvements
6. Am I eligible for Esketamine treatment?
Eligibility is determined during your initial consultation, but general criteria include a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, inadequate response to at least two different antidepressant treatments, and the ability to safely undergo the treatment protocol. Certain medical conditions may affect eligibility, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is essential
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