Spravato (generic name esketamine) is a medication that has been approved for use in mental health treatments, specifically for the treatment of depression, particularly treatment-resistant depression (TRD). It is an intranasal form of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic that has been used for decades in medical and veterinary settings. The use of Spravato represents a novel approach to treating depression, and it has shown promise for individuals who have not responded well to traditional antidepressant medications.
Here’s how Spravato is used in mental health treatments:
- Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD): Spravato is primarily indicated for individuals who have been diagnosed with TRD. This term refers to people who have not experienced significant improvement in their depressive symptoms despite trying multiple antidepressant medications or other forms of therapy.
- Rapid Onset of Action: One of the key advantages of Spravato is its relatively rapid onset of action. It can start to alleviate depressive symptoms within hours or days, in contrast to the weeks or even months that traditional antidepressants often require to show full effects.
- Administration: Spravato is administered as an intranasal spray, usually in a healthcare provider’s office. The healthcare professional supervises the administration and monitors the patient for a couple of hours afterward due to the potential for side effects.
- Frequency of Administration: The frequency of Spravato administration can vary depending on the patient’s response to the treatment. Initially, it may be administered twice a week for a few weeks, followed by a maintenance phase with less frequent dosing.
- Mechanism of Action: The exact mechanism of action of Spravato in treating depression is not fully understood, but it is thought to work by influencing glutamate, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This differs from traditional antidepressants that primarily target serotonin and other neurotransmitters.
- Safety and Side Effects: Spravato has shown efficacy in improving depressive symptoms, but it can also cause side effects, including dissociation, dizziness, increased blood pressure, and sedation. These side effects are typically monitored and managed during the treatment session.
- Comprehensive Treatment Plan: Spravato is usually used as part of a broader treatment plan that may include therapy and other forms of support. It is not intended as a standalone treatment for depression but rather as an adjunct therapy for those who have not responded well to other interventions.
It’s essential to emphasize that Spravato is not suitable for everyone, and its use is typically reserved for individuals who have not benefited from other treatment options. The decision to use Spravato should be made by a qualified healthcare provider after a careful evaluation of the patient’s specific needs and medical history.
The use of Spravato in mental health treatments represents an innovative approach to addressing severe and treatment-resistant depression, providing hope for individuals who have exhausted other treatment options. It is essential for patients to discuss its potential benefits and risks with a qualified mental health professional.
To Learn More, Please go to www.spravato.com.
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SPRAVATO®, the only FDA-approved nasal spray for
adult patients with two forms of challenging-to-treat
major depressive disorder (MDD):
- Adults with MDD who’ve had an inadequate response to two or more oral antidepressants, known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Depressive symptoms in adults with MDD with suicidal thoughts or actions (MDSI)