If you’re struggling with depression, know that you’re not alone. According to the World Health Organization, more than 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression, and it’s not uncommon for most people to experience one or more depressive episodes in their lifetime. Traditional treatments such as antidepressants and therapy have helped many people manage their depression symptoms, but for those who don’t respond to these options or don’t have the luxury of time, SPRAVATO (Esketamine) nasal spray may be the solution.
This FDA-approved treatment for depression is the only medication proven to result in depression symptom relief in as little as 24 hours, while traditional medications take weeks. In this blog, we will explore the science behind SPRAVATO (Esketamine) and how the breakthrough nasal spray works for those struggling with clinical depression, major depressive disorder, and/or treatment-resistant depression.
Antidepressants & the Neurobiology of Depression
While the exact causes of depression are unclear, research shows that life, environmental, and medical factors may all play a part. Such factors include stressful and traumatic events like deaths of loved ones, job loss, substance abuse, chronic conditions, hormonal imbalances, and even faulty mood regulation in the brain. Antidepressants work to counteract these events by increasing chemical levels in the brain associated with mood, particularly neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. The higher the levels of these chemicals, the greater a person’s mood is increased and thereby improved.
However, because current traditional antidepressants only target serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, the glutamate system is left unaddressed. The glutamate system is believed to play a crucial role in depression, which is why it’s an important target for new treatments like DPRAVATO (Esketamine).
What Is Glutamate and Why Is It Important?
Glutamate, an essential amino acid, is the brain’s most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter. This means its purpose is to stimulate nerve cells and encourage continuous communication between them. More, glutamate is also responsible for the production of Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), the “calming” neurotransmitter that is vital for proper sleep and anxiety regulation. Altogether, these functions make glutamate an imperative system to target in depression treatment.
Over time, depression can cause glutamate malfunction, damaging these vital connections in the brain. That’s where SPRAVATO (Esketamine) comes in!
What Is SPRAVATO (Esketamine)?
SPRAVATO is the brand name of esketamine, a more potent form of ketamine that is administered via nasal spray. It was approved by the FDA in 2019 for use in patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), or, depression that has shown no improvement after the use of two or more medications. Because it is considered a controlled substance, medication is administered in a healthcare provider’s office, and patients are monitored for at least two hours after each treatment.
How SPRAVATO (Esketamine) Nasal Spray Works for Depression
SPRAVATO (Esketamine) works differently from traditional antidepressants. While it similarly raises levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, it also targets the glutamate system in the brain. By binding to NMDA receptors (or inhibitory neurons), esketamine increases the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a protein that helps neurons grow and form new connections. The impact on the brain, in turn, leads to increased activity in areas associated with mood regulation and the restoration of those vital neuron connectors. Ultimately, this means a greater reach and more substantial impact on brain cells with a single dose compared to antidepressants, and an overall higher improvement in depressive symptoms,
Check out the 5 amazing benefits of esketamine nasal spray!
Clinical Trials & Effectiveness of SPRAVATO (Esketamine)
Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of SPRAVATO (Esketamine) in treating depression due to its immense and rapid positive impact on brain function. In fact, based on our patients’ experience, 69% of people showed improvement in symptoms after just eight treatments. Others have reported improvements in depression symptoms within hours of their first treatment.
In comparison to traditional antidepressants, we have found that patients are more likely to recover from depression at their 12-month follow-up with SPRAVATO (Esketamine) compared to medication.
Learn more about how esketamine is saving lives.
Safety Considerations & Potential Side Effects
As with any medication, there are potential side effects associated with SPRACATO (esketamine). Some common side effects include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, and increased blood pressure. The most common 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 administration before patients can leave and head home. However, it is important to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before beginning treatment.
Note: SPRAVATO (Esketamine) is not recommended for individuals with a history of psychosis or substance use disorders.
Integration with Other Treatment Options
SPRAVATO (Esketamine) can be used in combination with other treatments, such as therapy and traditional antidepressant medication, to help improve outcomes for depression relief. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Depression can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are treatment options available that can help. SPRAVATO (Esketamine) is a revolutionary depression treatment option that targets the glutamate system in the brain and has shown promise in treating treatment-resistant depression.
If you’re struggling with depression and traditional treatments have not been effective for you, SPRAVATO (Esketamine) may be a viable treatment option to consider. As with any medication, it is important to discuss potential benefits and risks with your healthcare provider. With the right treatment approach, you can manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Interested in getting started with esketamine treatments? Contact Mindful Health Solutions today at (888) 867-8444 or schedule an appointment online for your initial consultation.
