You or someone you care about might be struggling with depression that isn’t getting better. Despite trying many different treatments, they’re seeing little to no progress.
Now there’s hope for a brighter future with a breakthrough treatment known as Spravato. Let’s talk about this new option, what it is, how it helps, and whether it’s right for you.
What is Spravato?
Spravato is a prescription nasal spray that has a unique way of treating depression. Its scientific name is esketamine. It belongs to a group of medicines called NMDA receptor antagonists.
Unlike regular antidepressants that take weeks to work, Spravato can start to ease symptoms within days or even hours. This medicine is given under the watchful eye of a healthcare professional, which ensures safety and monitored progress.
What Does Spravato Treat?
Spravato has been designed to help people who suffer from a specific type of depression called Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD).
This is a form of depression with symptoms that don’t improve after trying two or more antidepressant treatments.
Spravato treats TRD in the following ways:
- Enhances Mood: Spravato can help lift your mood and improve feelings of sadness, guilt, or worthlessness.
- Boosts Energy: Many people with TRD struggle with low energy levels. Spravato can help to increase energy, allowing for improved daily function.
- Improves Sleep: TRD often disrupts sleep patterns. With Spravato, patients may find their sleep quality improves.
Who Can Use Spravato?
If you or a loved one has tried multiple treatments for depression without seeing the desired results, Spravato could be a beneficial option. This innovative treatment is designed for adults who haven’t found relief from other depression medications.
It’s important to note that Spravato isn’t a first-line treatment. It’s intended for people with TRD, which means it’s meant for those who have already tried other treatments without success.
Trusted healthcare providers will have a thorough discussion with you about your treatment history and health condition before starting any Spravato treatment.
Benefits of Esketamine (Spravato) vs Ketamine
Spravato and ketamine are often talked about together because they share similar roots. But they’re not the same.
Both medicines interact with NMDA receptors in the brain, but there are key differences.
Spravato is a more targeted form of treatment. It zeroes in on specific pathways in the brain, helping to improve symptoms of depression. This targeting can lead to fewer side effects compared to ketamine.
Another difference is how the medicines are given. Ketamine is typically given through an IV, while Spravato is a nasal spray. This can make Spravato a more convenient and comfortable option.
The Spravato Treatment Experience
When you begin Spravato treatment at OC Specialty Health & Hospitals, your experience starts with a comprehensive assessment to make sure Spravato is the best option for you. Once you start treatment, you’ll come to the Spravato Treatment Clinic for each session.
You’ll be given Spravato as a nasal spray in a comfortable, private setting. A healthcare provider will watch over you during your entire visit, ensuring your safety and comfort.
After receiving the treatment, you’ll stay at the clinic for about two hours. During that time, the staff will monitor your reaction.
Spravato treatment sessions are usually twice a week when you first start. Over time, as your symptoms improve, you’ll switch to once a week. And eventually, once every two weeks or even just once a month.
The goal is to find the best dosage and frequency that works for you.
See if Spravato is Right for You
If you or a loved one is dealing with treatment-resistant depression, Spravato could be a life-changing treatment. It’s a new hope for those who have tried other treatments without success.
The team at OC Specialty Health & Hospitals’ Spravato Treatment Clinic is ready to guide you through the process. Reach out to us at 949-900-8494 or by email to learn more about Spravato and see if it could be the right choice for you or your loved one.