SPRAVATO®
(Intranasal Esketamine)
SPRAVATO® is the first FDA-approved, antidepressant nasal spray specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
This potent treatment has been shown to quickly and effectively treat major depressive disorders (MDD), and is the only antidepressant that is approved for use in patients with Acute Suicidal Ideation and Behavior (ASIB), though it is not proven to treat ASIB.
Unlike common antidepressants, which treat depression by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in areas of the brain that affect mood, SPRAVATO® uses a concentrated nasal spray to target the NMDA receptor, and increase neuroplasticity. The result is fast, effective relief from severe symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD).
Depression is associated with a reduction of in nerve synapses. By increasing neuroplasticity, and helping the brain form new synapses, ketamine and esketamine can have a rapid and dramatic positive effect on mood.
Is SPRAVATO® right for you?
SPRAVATO® is specifically intended for adult individuals who are grappling with severe symptoms associated with major depressive disorders, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, it is intended for those experiencing treatment-resistant depression, a condition that can only be diagnosed and evaluated by a qualified medical professional. If you have undergone two or more preliminary depression treatments, such as talk therapy and prescription medications, or more advanced therapies like TMS or standard Ketamine therapy, without any sustained relief or positive outcomes, then SPRAVATO® could potentially be the ideal solution for you.
What to Expect
Intake & Evaluation
The first step is an intake and evaluation with a qualified medical provider, which is covered by insurance. This assessment will help determine if SPRAVATO® is a suitable treatment option for you, especially if you have been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression and have previously attempted two or more unsuccessful treatments.
If SPRAVATO® is the best course of action, our certified technicians will provide a thorough explanation of the treatment process and important safety considerations to ensure you are fully informed about what to expect.
Treatment
SPRAVATO® is typically administered over twice-weekly sessions for four to six weeks.
During each treatment session, a qualified clinicians will supervise you as you administer the SPRAVATO® nasal spray, demonstrating the correct technique. Following administration, you will be asked to rest comfortably while being monitored for any potential side effects. After a two-hour observation period, our technicians will conclude the session, and you will be free to leave.
SPRAVATO® Treatment Effects
SPRAVATO® Anti Depressant Effects
Nasal esketamine has been shown to be safe and effective in several large clinical trials for the treatment of depression. In one large study, a significant portion of people with treatment-resistant depression who received esketamine had a significant reduction in their symptoms, compared to placebo, within 24 hours of taking the medication.
In addition to being effective, esketamine was found to have relatively few side effects. The most common side effects of esketamine include transient nausea, dizziness, and dissociation (feeling detached from reality).
However, dissociation is considered by many experts to be a key factor in the therapeutic antidepressant effect rather than a side effect. It can also sometimes cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate, so it is important to have close monitoring during treatment. In addition, esketamine is not recommended for people with a history of substance abuse or a current substance use disorder.