Ketamine Clinic [Forest Hills, Queens]
I am Dr. Max Lazarus, board-certified emergency medicine physician and medical director of Queens Ketamine Treatment Center in Forest Hills. We are the premiere Ketamine treatment center in the borough of Queens. Spravato is meaningfully different from most of what people picture when they hear the word "ketamine," and I think the group deserves an honest, evidence-based explanation from a local physician operating a ketamine clinic. We are open 7 days a week and accepting new patients.
What it is. Spravato is an FDA-approved prescription nasal spray (active ingredient: esketamine). It was approved in March 2019 specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression — depression that has not improved after two or more trials of standard antidepressants. It is manufactured by Janssen / Johnson & Johnson and fully regulated by the FDA.
Why it is different from what people often picture. Federal law requires Spravato to be administered under a strict safety program called the REMS Program. In practice, that means:
Patients self-administer the nasal spray only at a certified medical office — never at home. · A board-certified physician and registered nurse are physically present in the room during every administration. · Every patient is monitored for a minimum of two hours after each dose, with continuous pulse oximetry and serial vital signs. · Patients are not permitted to drive themselves on a treatment day; safe transportation home is arranged before every visit.
Who is a candidate. Adults (18+) with major depressive disorder who have tried at least two standard antidepressants without adequate response. Treatment is always coordinated with the patient's existing psychiatrist or primary care doctor. Patients with active psychosis, uncontrolled hypertension, certain heart conditions, or who are pregnant are not candidates.
Insurance. Most major commercial plans, as well as most Medicare and Medicaid plans, cover Spravato when clinical criteria are met. Coverage requires a prior authorization — we handle that paperwork. The manufacturer also offers a financial assistance program for patients who need it.
Max Lazarus DO
Transcendence - The Queens Ketamine Treatment Center
96-07 72nd Ave, Forest Hills, NY, 11375