Many individuals struggling with depression find that traditional medications don’t provide the relief they need. In fact, treatment-resistant depression affects approximately one-third of those with major depressive disorder, highlighting a significant need for alternative treatments that go beyond conventional medications. SPRAVATO (Esketamine) is an FDA-approved medication derived from ketamine, offering new hope for those who haven’t found success with traditional treatments. This blog will explore the pros and cons of SPRAVATO, providing valuable insights for anyone considering this innovative treatment.
Understanding SPRAVATO
SPRAVATO (Esketamine) is a potent form of ketamine, an anesthetic with a long history of use. It was approved by the FDA in March 2019 specifically for the treatment of depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which are taken orally, SPRAVATO is administered as a nasal spray under medical supervision. This new approach has shown promise, particularly for individuals who have not responded to other depression treatments.
SPRAVATO works by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. However, it differs from traditional antidepressants by significantly boosting glutamate levels, the brain’s most prevalent chemical messenger. This results in a greater reach and more substantial impact on brain cells with a single dose compared to conventional antidepressants, potentially leading to faster and more effective relief of depressive symptoms.
SPRAVATO is specifically designed for people with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not found success with at least two different antidepressant treatments. These individuals are considered to have treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Approximately 65% of our patients with TRD show improvement after eight treatments with SPRAVATO. Additionally, patients are more likely to recover from depression at their 12-month follow-up compared to those on traditional medications.
The Pros of SPRAVATO
Rapid Relief of Symptoms
One of the most significant advantages of SPRAVATO is its ability to provide rapid relief from depressive symptoms. Many patients report noticeable improvements within hours or days of their first treatment. This noticeable relief is much faster than the weeks or months it can take for traditional antidepressants to work.
Learn more about how SPRAVATO quickly and effectively relieves depression.
Effectiveness in Treatment-Resistant Depression
SPRAVATO has been particularly effective for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of these patients experience substantial improvement after just a few sessions, offering hope to those who have struggled with finding effective treatments.
Reduction in Suicidal Thoughts
Another crucial benefit of SPRAVATO is its impact on reducing suicidal ideation. Research indicates that it can quickly decrease the severity of suicidal thoughts. It provides critical support for individuals in acute distress and potentially prevents tragic outcomes.
Convenience of Administration
SPRAVATO is administered as a nasal spray, which many patients find more convenient and less invasive than other forms of treatment. The administration process is straightforward and can be done quickly under the supervision of a healthcare provider, making it a practical option for many.
Check out these 9 shocking facts about SPRAVATO!
The Cons of SPRAVATO
Potential Side Effects
While SPRAVATO offers many benefits, it also comes with potential side effects. Common side effects include sleepiness, nausea, increased blood pressure, a bad taste in the mouth, and dissociation. These usually occur within one to two hours after administration and are monitored by healthcare providers.
Accessibility and Cost
The financial cost of SPRAVATO can be a barrier for some patients. Insurance coverage for this treatment varies. Contact us at Mindful Health Solutions by calling (844) 867-8444 to see if your insurance covers treatment. Additionally, geographic availability may limit access, as not all clinics are certified to administer SPRAVATO.
Search our SPRAVATO-certified clinic locations.
Supervision Requirements
Because SPRAVATO is a controlled substance, it must be administered in a certified clinical setting under the supervision of specially trained medical personnel. At Mindful Health Solutions, patients remain at the clinic for two hours after treatment. This requirement means patients need to plan for clinic visits and may need to arrange transportation, as they cannot drive immediately after treatment.
Potential for Abuse
There are concerns about the potential for abuse with esketamine given its origins as a derivative of ketamine, which is known for its use as a recreational drug. However, strict regulations and supervised administration aim to limit these risks and ensure patient safety.
Comparing SPRAVATO to Other Treatments
Traditional Antidepressants
Traditional antidepressants, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, work by altering levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. While effective for many, they often take several weeks to show benefits and may not work for people with treatment-resistant depression. In contrast, SPRAVATO offers faster relief and works through a different mechanism.
Discover why SPRAVATO has become such a popular alternative to antidepressants.
Therapy Options
SPRAVATO can be effectively integrated with other therapeutic approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Combining treatment with therapy can enhance overall treatment outcomes, providing immediate symptom relief and long-term coping strategies.
Alternative Treatments
Other emerging treatments for depression include Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine Infusion Therapy. TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, which can help alleviate depressive symptoms in patients who haven’t found success with traditional medications. Ketamine Infusion Therapy involves the intravenous administration of ketamine, providing rapid relief from depression, especially in cases of treatment-resistant depression.
While both TMS and Ketamine Infusion Therapy have shown great promise and effectiveness, they may not be suitable for everyone. TMS requires daily sessions over several weeks, which can be time-consuming and may not be practical for individuals with busy schedules. Ketamine Infusion Therapy, though effective, involves intravenous administration, which can be invasive and may not be appealing to all patients.
This is where SPRAVATO (Esketamine) comes in. As a nasal spray, SPRAVATO offers a less invasive option compared to intravenous infusions and provides rapid relief, similar to ketamine therapy. Additionally, Esketamine treatments are conducted under medical supervision but do not require the same frequency of visits as TMS, making it a more convenient option for many patients. This combination of efficacy, convenience, and a less invasive administration method makes SPRAVATO a valuable alternative for those seeking effective depression treatment.
Is SPRAVATO Right for You?
If you have major depressive disorder and have not responded to at least two different antidepressant treatments, SPRAVATO may be an option worth considering. Discussing your treatment history and symptoms with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if SPRAVATO is suitable for you.
Many patients have shared positive experiences with SPRAVATO, reporting significant improvements in their depressive symptoms and overall quality of life. These testimonials can provide hope and insight for others considering this treatment. See what some of our SPRAVATO (Esketamine) patients have to say about their treatment experience:
SPRAVATO (Esketamine) offers a promising option for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, providing rapid relief and a new mechanism of action compared to traditional antidepressants. While it comes with some potential drawbacks, such as side effects and the need for supervised administration, its benefits can be life-changing for many patients.
If you’re struggling with depression and haven’t found success with other treatments, consider discussing SPRAVATO with us to see if it’s right for you. At Mindful Health Solutions, our expert team is here to help you navigate your path to recovery and find the treatment that best suits your needs. Call us at (844) 867-8444 today to schedule your consultation.
