In short,
- SPRAVATO® may be an option for some people with severe depression.
- It affects the brain differently from standard antidepressants.
- It’s given under medical supervision and may provide fast relief.
SPRAVATO® is a nasal spray medicine for adults with treatment-resistant depression. It must be given at a certified doctor’s office or clinic. Unlike many antidepressants, SPRAVATO® works on a different part of the brain and may give relief faster.
SPRAVATO® contains esketamine, a type of ketamine, and is used with an oral antidepressant.
SPRAVATO® carries a risk of serious side effects, including sedation, dissociation, abuse and misuse, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It is only available through a restricted program called the SPRAVATO® REMS program.
What is Treatment-Resistant Depression?
It’s helpful to understand treatment-resistant depression before considering SPRAVATO®.
What is Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is when someone hasn’t improved after trying at least two different antidepressant medicines. This means that even after taking two different antidepressants at the right dose for the right amount of time, they still have significant depression symptoms. This can be frustrating.
TRD doesn’t mean someone is failing. It just means that the usual treatments haven’t worked, and other options should be explored. If you think you might have TRD, talk to your doctor.
Why SPRAVATO® is Different?
SPRAVATO® affects the NMDA receptor in the brain, while most antidepressants affect serotonin and norepinephrine. Because it targets a different pathway, it may work for people with TRD who haven’t found relief with other medicines. This new way of working offers hope for those who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.
The NMDA receptor is a glutamate receptor in the brain. Glutamate is a brain chemical that helps with learning and memory. By changing how this receptor works, SPRAVATO® may help restore normal brain function and reduce depression symptoms.
How SPRAVATO® Works in the Brain?
SPRAVATO® contains esketamine. When it enters the brain, it helps rebuild connections between brain cells, which are often weakened in people with depression. This may be why it can quickly improve depression symptoms.
These connections allow brain cells to communicate. Depression can damage these connections, which lowers brain function. SPRAVATO® helps to rebuild these connections, which can improve mood and thinking.
- Impact on Glutamate: SPRAVATO® changes how glutamate works, which is a key chemical for regulating mood.
- Brain Plasticity: It helps the brain grow new connections.
- Fast Action: Many people feel some relief within days, instead of weeks, compared to traditional antidepressants.
What to Expect During SPRAVATO® Treatment for Depression?
Knowing what will happen during a SPRAVATO® session can ease anxiety and make the process smoother.
What Happens During a Session?
SPRAVATO® is given in a certified medical office by a trained provider. You’ll spray the medicine into your nose yourself and will be watched for at least two hours afterward. During this time, your blood pressure and mental state will be checked closely.
This monitoring is important for your safety and to handle any possible side effects. The provider will see how you’re responding to the medicine and help you as needed. It’s important to tell them about any concerns or discomfort you have during the session.
Possible Side Effects
Like all medicines, SPRAVATO® can cause side effects. Common side effects include sleepiness, feeling detached from reality (dissociation), increased blood pressure, nausea, and dizziness. These usually don’t last long and go away within a few hours after the medicine is given.
Dissociation is when you feel disconnected from your body or surroundings. While it can be strange, it’s usually mild and doesn’t last long. Your provider will watch you closely for any bad reactions and help if needed.
Tell your provider right away if you have any concerning side effects.
Is SPRAVATO® Right for You?
Deciding if SPRAVATO® is the right treatment needs careful thought and a discussion with a mental health professional.
SPRAVATO® isn’t the first treatment used for depression. It’s usually considered for people with TRD who haven’t responded to other treatments. A mental health professional needs to evaluate you to decide if SPRAVATO® is a good choice.
During the evaluation, the provider will ask about your medical history, current medicines, and past treatments. They’ll also check how severe your depression symptoms are and look for any underlying causes.
When to Seek SPRAVATO® Treatment for Depression in Phoenix, AZ
Don’t wait to get help if you’re having depression symptoms. Getting help early can improve your chances of recovery and improve your overall well-being. You’re not alone, and there are treatments that can help you overcome depression.
If you’ve been struggling with depression and haven’t found relief with other treatments, talk to our mental health professionals here at My Bouyant Health. We can assess your situation and decide if SPRAVATO® might be right for you.
Call us today at (602) 510-6582 or use our online appointment request form.
