Spravato, an esketamine nasal spray, is prescribed for adults with certain depression types, and it is approved for use. It presents a different approach from many traditional oral antidepressants. While it is derived from ketamine, Spravato contains only one part of the ketamine molecule and is administered under medical supervision. Here is more information about this medication for depression treatment:
Reducing Depression Symptoms
Spravato works on a different timeline than many oral antidepressants, which may take weeks to produce noticeable effects. Patients may experience a reduction in their depressive symptoms within 24 hours of the initial treatment sessions. This rapid onset of action is a distinguishing feature of the medication, so it offers a different therapeutic pathway for individuals seeking relief.
Addressing Multiple Conditions
This medication is FDA-approved for people with these conditions:
- Adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have active suicidal thoughts or actions.
Individuals with TRD may not respond to at least two different oral antidepressants, and Spravato offers a new option. Because it is specifically helpful for these challenging conditions, it fills a particular niche in mental healthcare.
Targeting NMDA Receptors
Traditional antidepressants focus on increasing neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine, aiming to treat depression. Spravato functions through a different mechanism of action. It targets the NMDA receptor in the brain, which involves synaptic plasticity and cellular communication.
By modulating this receptor, esketamine helps restore neural connections that may be diminished by long-term depression, and this process may contribute to its effects on mood. Spravato is administered as a nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Patients typically stay for monitoring after each session to address any potential side effects.
Providing an Alternative Solution
Spravato is available in a certified doctor’s office or clinic, where patients self-administer the nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare provider. They can personalize the treatment plan, but it typically involves an initial phase of one to two treatments per week. After the initial phase, they may reduce the frequency of administration. This approach requires a commitment to a structured treatment schedule, and it involves:
- Administration in a healthcare facility.
- A post-treatment observation period of at least two hours.
- Coordination with an ongoing oral antidepressant regimen.
This administration is a key part of the treatment protocol. Because the medication may cause side effects like dissociation, sedation, and high blood pressure, direct medical monitoring is necessary during and after each session. Patients must arrange for transportation home and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
The integration of Spravato into a comprehensive treatment plan is a collaborative process. It works alongside an oral antidepressant to provide a multi-faceted approach to managing depression. This combination allows for both immediate and long-term strategies to be used together.
Treat Depression With Spravato
Spravato offers a distinct approach for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation. Its unique mechanism of action, supervised administration, and rapid onset differentiate it from many other available treatments. If you are struggling with depression and have not found relief with other treatments, a professional assessment can determine if this path is right for you. Contact a specialty care clinic today to schedule an evaluation with a medical team.