If you’re struggling to find remedies for treatment-resistant depression, Gianan Health is here to help. Esketamine (also known as Spravato), is an in-office treatment offering solutions for those who may have exhausted all other options.
What is Esketamine?
Esketamine (also known as Spravato) is a prescription medicine, also known as Esketamine, used primarily in the treatment of depression, particularly for patients who have not responded to traditional antidepressants. At Gianan Health, Spravato is administered as a nasal spray, usually in conjunction with an oral antidepressant.
Spravato works by targeting and modulating the brain’s glutamate system, which is thought to play a role in mood regulation. This mechanism is different from that of typical oral antidepressants, which often focus on neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. By acting on glutamate, Spravato can provide rapid relief from depressive symptoms, sometimes within hours, which is a significant advantage for patients experiencing severe or treatment-resistant depression.
Treatment Session:
During a clinic visit, patients receive Spravato under the supervision of our healthcare providers. The treatment involves a monitoring period after administration to observe any immediate side effects or reactions. This careful supervision ensures the safety and efficacy of the medication. Spravato is usually part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychotherapy and other supportive measures.
Patients might experience side effects such as dizziness, dissociation, or nausea, but these are typically managed with close monitoring and supportive care. Overall, Spravato offers a promising option for individuals struggling with depression who have not found relief from conventional treatments.
Who:
Spravato (Esketamine) is generally considered for patients who meet specific criteria. Here’s an overview of who might be a candidate for Spravato treatment:
- Treatment-Resistant Depression: Spravato is primarily used for individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not responded adequately to at least two different classes of antidepressant medications. This is often referred to as “treatment-resistant depression.”
- Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder: Candidates typically have a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. Spravato is not approved for other forms of depression or mood disorders.
- Failure of Conventional Therapies: Patients who have tried multiple conventional antidepressants (such as SSRIs or SNRIs) without significant improvement might be considered. Spravato is usually reserved for those who have not achieved sufficient relief with standard treatments.
- Comprehensive Treatment Plan: Spravato is used as part of a broader treatment plan that includes other therapeutic options like psychotherapy and oral antidepressants. It’s not meant to be a standalone treatment but rather a component of a comprehensive approach.
- Safety and Monitoring: Because Spravato can have side effects and requires careful monitoring, candidates need to be willing and able to comply with the clinic’s monitoring protocols. This includes a supervised administration and post-administration observation period to ensure safety.
- Informed Consent: Patients must be able to understand and consent to the treatment, including the potential side effects and the monitoring process.
We are happy to answer any questions and determined to find the right treatment plan for you. Contact us today.
