Esketamine therapy is a hopeful treatment for some forms of depression in the changing mental health field. However, as with any innovative treatment, misconceptions and myths can cloud our understanding. This blog clears up the top five myths about esketamine therapy, giving clarity and insight to those considering it.
Myth 1: Esketamine is the Same as Recreational Ketamine
A common eskatemine treatment misconception is that its use in therapeutic settings is no different from using ketamine recreationally. However, recent clinical evidence points to the distinct and effective role of esketamine, especially when used alongside traditional antidepressants.
Pivotal clinical trials reveal that about 70% of patients experience at least a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms when treated with a combination of esketamine and an antidepressant. Furthermore, approximately half of the patients in these trials achieved complete remission, meaning their depression symptoms completely went away.
While some patients may begin to notice improvements after just one treatment session, esketamine therapy typically involves a full course of treatments — usually 12 sessions over a two-month period — to realize maximum benefits. This timeline underscores the importance of patience and persistence in mental health treatment.
It’s crucial to recognize that mental health treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Treatment plans, including esketamine therapy, may require adjustments and combinations of different options to best suit individual patient needs. The effectiveness of these treatments often depends on open communication and collaboration between the patient and healthcare provider. This partnership is essential in creating a treatment plan that optimally supports a patient’s wellness journey.
Explore 7 reasons why esketamine is becoming an antidepressant alternative.
Myth 2: Esketamine Therapy is Addictive
The question of addiction in relation to esketamine therapy is a major concern for many. Understanding the nuances of its use and the associated risks is crucial in addressing this myth.
While esketamine is deemed safe under a doctor’s supervision, it does carry a risk of abuse and psychological as well as physical dependence. This risk highlights the importance of staying in close contact with your healthcare provider throughout the treatment. Regular monitoring and professional guidance are essential in mitigating these risks.
Like other antidepressant medications, esketamine influences the brain’s chemistry, particularly affecting dopamine and serotonin levels. This alteration can lead to a form of dependence, as the body adjusts to the increased levels of these neurotransmitters. Consequently, abruptly stopping esketamine or other antidepressants can result in withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, any changes in the medication regimen should be carefully managed and supervised by a healthcare professional.
The potential for dependence underscores the need for careful medical supervision during esketamine therapy. By maintaining open communication with your doctor and adhering to the prescribed treatment plan, the risks of abuse and dependence can be significantly minimized. Additionally, this supervision ensures that any signs of potential abuse or dependence are identified and addressed promptly.
Myth 3: Esketamine Therapy is Only for Severe Depression
It’s a common belief that esketamine therapy is reserved solely for cases of severe depression. This perception, however, is rapidly evolving, especially in light of recent developments in its approved uses.
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved esketamine as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression in 2019, it has more recently approved esketamine as a treatment for suicidality. This significant milestone underscores the broader potential of esketamine beyond just severe depression. It highlights its role in addressing urgent mental health needs, providing a new option for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Esketamine’s chemical cousin, ketamine, has long been used off-label for various conditions like anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), substance use disorders, chronic pain, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the data supporting these uses has not been robust enough for FDA approval, it indicates a growing interest and potential in the use of these types of medications for a range of mental health issues.
This expansion in esketamine’s indications and the ongoing research into ketamine’s off-label uses point to a broader understanding and application of these treatments in mental health care. It suggests that esketamine could potentially benefit a wider range of patients, not just those with severe depression. This evolving perspective opens the door for more research and possibly more approved indications in the future.
Is esketamine more than an antidepressant? Learn how it improves brain plasticity.
Myth 4: Esketamine Therapy Has Debilitating Side Effects
All medical treatments have potential side effects, and esketamine therapy is no exception. However, the notion that it causes debilitating side effects is a misconception. Common side effects include
- Sleepiness
- Nausea
- Increased blood pressure
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Dissociation
These side effects usually only occur within one to two hours after the nasal spray has been administered. To help ensure the safety of patients, there is a two-hour window of supervision at the clinic following the administration before patients can leave and head home.
After treatment, patients may experience some of the side effects listed above. However, some side effects decrease with repeated treatments. Regardless, these side effects are typically temporary and manageable.
Importantly, these side effects must be weighed against the potential benefits of the treatment, especially for those who have not found relief through other methods. With proper medical supervision, side effects can be effectively managed, making esketamine a possible treatment for many.
Myth 5: Esketamine Therapy Results are Temporary and Ineffective
Some believe that the benefits of esketamine therapy are short-lived and ultimately ineffective. However, evidence suggests otherwise. Many patients experience significant improvements in their symptoms, with effects lasting beyond the treatment period. The key is understanding that esketamine therapy is often part of a broader, individualized treatment plan, including psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes, contributing to long-term positive outcomes.
Learn how our patient Nancy overcame her battle with treatment-resistant depression with esketamine:
Conclusion
Esketamine therapy represents a significant advancement in the treatment of depression, especially for those who have not responded to traditional therapies. By debunking esketamine therapy myths, we hope to provide a clearer picture of what esketamine therapy entails and its potential benefits. As with any medical treatment, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive understanding and professional guidance.
Learn more about how esketamine works for treating depression.
If you or someone you know is considering esketamine therapy, we encourage you to seek professional advice. At Mindful Health Solutions, our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care and support. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call us at (844) 867-8444. Remember, taking the first step towards understanding your options is a vital part of the journey towards better mental health.
