Living with treatment-resistant depression can feel overwhelming and isolating. If traditional treatments haven’t relieved your symptoms, you may be searching for alternatives.
One option to consider is SPRAVATO®. This innovative approach uses the medication esketamine (SPRAVATO®) to help people find relief when other treatments have fallen short. Could it be what you need?
This blog will help you understand SPRAVATO® treatment for depression and whether it may be right for you.
What is SPRAVATO®?
SPRAVATO® is a nasal spray containing esketamine, a medication approved by the FDA to treat adults with treatment-resistant depression. It works differently than traditional antidepressants. While most antidepressants boost chemicals like serotonin over weeks, SPRAVATO® targets glutamate — a chemical involved in brain plasticity — offering relief more rapidly.
SPRAVATO® must be taken alongside an oral antidepressant. The treatment is administered under the supervision of a trained practitioner in a certified health center. It is not a medication you take at home — this ensures your safety and allows close monitoring of the effects.
How Does SPRAVATO® Work?
SPRAVATO® works by targeting NMDA receptors in the brain, which are part of the glutamate system. This interaction can help restore connections in the brain that may have been weakened by depression.
By working through this unique pathway, SPRAVATO® has been shown to help even those who do not respond to traditional antidepressants. Many patients report feeling better in as little as a few hours after their first session.
Who Can Benefit from SPRAVATO®?
SPRAVATO® is specifically designed for adults diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression, meaning depression that hasn’t improved after trying at least two other medications. If you meet this requirement, SPRAVATO® could be an option for you.
SPRAVATO® may also be considered for individuals experiencing major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts. However, every person is different, and meeting with a qualified practitioner is essential to determine if SPRAVATO® aligns with your unique needs.
It’s important to note that SPRAVATO® treatment is not suitable if you:
- Have certain medical conditions, like aneurysms or brain injuries
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Struggle with substance abuse
Your practitioner will evaluate the following factors before recommending SPRAVATO®:
- Your overall mental and physical health
- Your past experiences with medications
- Your comfort with and availability for in-office treatments
It is important to work closely with a provider who can assess your needs and guide you through the process.
How is SPRAVATO® Administered?
SPRAVATO® is provided only in certified medical centers under close observation by a trained health professional. A typical session involves the following steps:
Pre-Treatment Check-In
Your practitioner will ensure you’re healthy enough to proceed with treatment during your appointment.
Nasal Spray Administration
You will self-administer the SPRAVATO® nasal spray under supervision. Your practitioner will guide you through the process.
Observation Period
After taking the medication, you’ll remain in a comfortable recovery room for 2 hours. This allows time for any side effects to wear off and ensures it’s safe for you to leave.
Sessions typically consist of eight weeks of treatment. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress, adjust the dosing frequency as needed, and gradually reduce sessions as your symptoms improve.
What are the Risks?
Although SPRAVATO® has helped many people, it is important to be aware of potential risks. Side effects may include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sleepiness
- Temporary increases in blood pressure
- Dissociation (feeling detached from reality)
Your provider will carefully monitor you during treatment to manage any side effects.
What are the Benefits of SPRAVATO®?
The potential benefits of SPRAVATO® are considerable, especially for those who have struggled with finding relief through other options. These benefits include:
Rapid Symptom Relief
Many patients experience relief within hours or days compared to the weeks that traditional antidepressants often require.
Complement to Therapy
SPRAVATO® can complement other therapeutic methods, such as talk therapy, by stabilizing your mood and making it easier to engage in additional treatments.
Supervised Care
SPRAVATO® is administered under the close supervision of a certified provider. This ensures a safe and supportive environment, with immediate access to help if needed.
Rekindling Hope
Experiencing treatment-resistant depression can be disheartening. Having an option like SPRAVATO® offers hope and demonstrates that alternatives are available.
SPRAVATO® Treatment for Depression in Phoenix, Arizona
Taking the first step toward feeling better can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it alone. At My Buoyant Health, we specialize in helping treatment-resistant depression patients explore innovative options like SPRAVATO®.
Our experienced and compassionate team will guide you through every step, from determining if SPRAVATO® is right for you to supporting you during your sessions. We understand the challenges of living with treatment-resistant depression and are here to help you find relief.
Contact us today at (602) 510-6582 to schedule a consultation or use our Request an Appointment form. We look forward to serving you!
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