SPRAVATO®
Spravato, also known by its generic name esketamine, is an innovative medication designed to treat individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Unlike traditional antidepressants that often take weeks to work, Spravato can provide rapid relief for depressive symptoms, offering hope to patients who have not responded adequately to other therapies.
How Spravato Works
Spravato is a nasal spray that targets the NMDA receptor in the brain, which plays a key role in mood regulation. By modulating glutamate signaling, Spravato can help restore neural connections that are disrupted in depression. This mechanism is different from standard antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs, making it particularly effective for those who have tried multiple medications without sufficient improvement.
Who Can Benefit
Spravato is indicated for adults with treatment-resistant depression, meaning they have not responded to at least two different antidepressant treatments in the current depressive episode. It is also sometimes used for adults with major depressive disorder who have acute suicidal ideation, under close medical supervision. Treatment is always administered in a certified medical setting due to the need for monitoring after each dose.
Treatment Process
Spravato is administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional in a clinic. Patients self-administer the nasal spray while being monitored for any side effects, which can include dizziness, nausea, dissociation, or temporary increases in blood pressure. After administration, patients remain under observation for approximately two hours to ensure safety. Treatment typically begins with twice-weekly sessions, which may be adjusted based on patient response.
Combining Spravato with Therapy
For optimal results, Spravato is often combined with oral antidepressants and ongoing psychotherapy. This integrative approach supports both the biological and psychological aspects of depression, enhancing overall treatment outcomes and helping patients maintain improvements over time.