Spravato Therapy: Revolutionizing Depression Treatment | Comprehensive Guide

It is possible to be happy after the depression responds positively to Spravato

Spravato Therapy: A Breakthrough in Depression Treatment

Depression affects millions worldwide, often leaving individuals feeling helpless and struggling to find effective treatments. However, a groundbreaking medication called Spravato (esketamine) is offering new hope for those with treatment-resistant depression. This comprehensive guide will explore Spravato therapy, its benefits, administration process, and why it’s becoming a game-changer in mental health treatment.

What is Spravato Therapy?

Spravato therapy utilizes esketamine, a nasal spray derived from ketamine, to rapidly alleviate symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) and treatment-resistant depression. Approved by the FDA in 2019, Spravato works differently from traditional antidepressants, offering a novel approach to managing depression [1].

Key Features of Spravato:

– Fast-acting: Can provide relief within hours or days
– Administered as a nasal spray
– Used in conjunction with oral antidepressants
– Requires supervised administration in a certified healthcare setting

How Does Spravato Work?

Unlike conventional antidepressants that primarily target serotonin or norepinephrine, Spravato acts on the glutamate system in the brain. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter crucial for neural activation, communication, and plasticity [2].

1. NMDA Receptor Antagonism: Spravato blocks N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which are involved in glutamate signaling.
2. Rapid Synaptic Growth: This blockade triggers a cascade of events that promote the growth of new synapses and strengthen existing ones.
3. Improved Neural Connectivity: Enhanced synaptic connections may help restore normal brain function and alleviate depressive symptoms.

The Spravato Treatment Process

Initial Assessment

Before beginning Spravato therapy, patients undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if they are suitable candidates. This includes:
– Review of medical history
– Assessment of current depressive symptoms
– Evaluation of previous treatments
– Physical examination and necessary lab tests

Treatment Schedule

Spravato therapy typically follows a structured schedule:
1. Induction Phase: Twice-weekly treatments for the first 4 weeks
2. Maintenance Phase: Weekly treatments for weeks 5-8
3. Continuation Phase: Weekly or bi-weekly treatments based on individual response

Administration Procedure

1. Pre-Treatment: Patients should avoid food for 2 hours and liquids for 30 minutes before treatment.
2. Supervised Setting: Administration takes place in a certified healthcare facility under medical supervision.
3. Nasal Spray Application: Patients self-administer the nasal spray under guidance.
4. Monitoring Period: Patients are observed for at least 2 hours post-administration to monitor for side effects.

Benefits of Spravato Therapy

1. Rapid Relief: Many patients experience improvement in depressive symptoms within hours or days, compared to weeks or months with traditional antidepressants [3].
2. Efficacy in Treatment-Resistant Cases: Spravato has shown promise in patients who haven’t responded to multiple antidepressant trials.
3. Reduced Suicidal Ideation: Studies indicate that Spravato may quickly reduce suicidal thoughts in patients with major depressive disorder [4].
4. Improved Quality of Life: By alleviating depressive symptoms, Spravato can help patients regain functionality and improve overall well-being.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

While Spravato offers significant benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects:

– Dissociation or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings
– Dizziness and nausea
– Increased blood pressure
– Sedation or drowsiness
– Vertigo or spinning sensation

It’s crucial to discuss these potential side effects with a healthcare provider and weigh them against the benefits of treatment.

Who is a Candidate for Spravato Therapy?

Spravato is typically recommended for adults with:
– Treatment-resistant depression (failed response to at least two antidepressants)
– Major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation or behavior

Certain conditions may preclude individuals from Spravato therapy, including:
– Aneurysmal vascular disease
– Intracerebral hemorrhage
– Pregnancy or breastfeeding
– History of psychosis or substance abuse disorders

The Future of Depression Treatment

Spravato therapy represents a significant advancement in the field of mental health, offering hope to those who have struggled with persistent depression. As research continues, we may see expanded applications and refined treatment protocols.

Ongoing Research

Scientists are exploring:
– Long-term effects of Spravato therapy
– Potential applications for other mental health conditions
– Optimization of dosing and administration schedules

Conclusion

Spravato therapy is revolutionizing the treatment landscape for depression, providing rapid relief and new hope for those who have exhausted traditional options. While it’s not suitable for everyone, its unique mechanism of action and impressive efficacy make it a valuable tool in the fight against depression.

If you or a loved one are struggling with treatment-resistant depression, consult with a mental health professional to determine if Spravato therapy might be an appropriate option. Remember, depression is a treatable condition, and with advancements like Spravato, there are more reasons than ever to be hopeful about finding effective relief.

References

1. FDA Approval of Spravato
2. Duman RS, et al. Synaptic plasticity and depression: new insights from stress and rapid-acting antidepressants. Nat Med. 2016
3. [Canuso CM, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Intranasal Esketamine for the Rapid Reduction of Symptoms of Depression and Suicidality in Patients at Imminent Risk for Suicide. Am J Psychiatry. 2018](https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2018.17060720)
4. [National Institute of Mental Health – Spravato Information](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml)
5. [American Psychiatric Association – Esketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/esketamine-for-treatment-resistant-depression)

Author’s Bio

Dr. David Boguslavsky, MD, is a highly experienced family physician and medical acupuncturist with over two decades of clinical practice, who has emerged as a leader in mental health treatment, particularly in the field of depression. A graduate of Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Dr. Boguslavsky is board-certified in both Family Medicine and Medical Acupuncture, showcasing his diverse medical expertise. His extensive experience spans a wide range of medical care, from acute illnesses to chronic condition management, with a particular focus on preventative care and pain treatment.

Notably, Dr. Boguslavsky has pioneered innovative approaches to depression treatment, having administered over 10,000 Spravato treatments, establishing himself as one of the foremost experts in this cutting-edge therapy. His unique blend of traditional Western medicine, Eastern acupuncture techniques, and advanced psychiatric treatments allows him to offer comprehensive, personalized care to his patients at PremierMD and Spravato Treatment Centers of NJ. Fluent in English and Russian, Dr. Boguslavsky brings a multifaceted approach to healthcare, combining the latest medical technologies with time-honored principles of doctor-patient relationships to address both physical and mental health needs.

November 1, 2022September 19, 2024

Spravato for depression: Pros and cons

Spravato® is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). The active ingredient in Spravato is esketamine, which is a type of medicine called an antidepressant. Esketamine works by acting on the brain chemicals that help maintain mental health. By changing how these chemicals work, esketamine may provide relief from symptoms of depression.

Benefits of Spravato

Spravato is a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) that can help you feel better, faster. It’s an easy-to-take nasal treatment done once or twice a week, and works by restoring the balance of certain chemicals in your brain.

This medication was approved in late 2018 by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It’s only available through doctors who are trained to prescribe medications like these, so it’s important to find a doctor who understands Spravato and knows how best to help you.

In general, Spravato works quickly—you may start feeling better within 2 weeks of starting treatment. Your doctor may have you take other medications at the same time as Spravato for additional support until you get well again.

How Ketamine works, and will it really work for me?

Ketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptor, which is involved in regulating mood and memory. When ketamine blocks this receptor, it causes a change in brain chemistry. This can help with depression by changing the way your brain works to reduce feelings of sadness and hopelessness. It has proven to be effective in treating mild to moderate depression. It’s a safe option for those who have not responded to traditional treatments, and it’s easy to administer.

If you have been prescribed ketamine therapy, it is likely because your doctor believes that the treatment may help to alleviate some of your symptoms. However, ketamine therapy is not for everyone. If you are considering taking part in an esketamine treatment, it is important to understand what this type of therapy entails so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it would be right for you.

Spravato therapy has been shown to be effective at treating depression when administered by a trained psychiatrist or other medical professional who specializes in mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. However, even when received from a qualified professional, this form of medication cannot cure depression entirely on its own; instead, it can only be used alongside other treatments such as psychotherapy or antidepressants.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy maybe right for you. This, insurance-covered ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

Author’s Bio

October 29, 2022September 20, 2024

Spravato for depression: When other treatments fail

There are many types of ketamine therapy available now, including infusions, injections and anesthesia. Spravato is not the same as these other therapies because it delivers lower doses over time—and with far fewer side effects than other methods of administration.

Spravato can help people with major depression when other treatments are not working.

Spravato is a prescription medicine that is used to treat major depressive disorder, a condition in which your mood is persistently low, and you may lose interest in things you once enjoyed. It is a type of antidepressant called a glutamate receptor modulator. This medication works by targeting the glutamate system in the brain, which plays an important role in depression by helping regulate mood and emotions.

Spravato can be used as an alternative to other antidepressants when they have not worked or when certain conditions apply.

Spravato treatment centers

If you suffer from major depressive disorder, ketamine therapy is a great option to consider. If you’re interested in learning more about how ketamine therapy can help treat your symptoms of depression, contact us today!

Even if you choose a different Spravato Treatment Center, it is crucial that your designated treatment center is adept in getting your esketamine treatment for depression covered by health insurance.

You can find a qualified Spravato Treatment center using a handy tool from Janssen.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy may be the right therapeutic option for you. This, insurance-covered, ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

Author’s Bio

October 26, 2022September 19, 2024

Esketamine for depression – a new option!

Esketamine is a new medication for the treatment of major depression. It is an injectable, non-opioid based medicine that has been shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms, even when other treatments have failed.

Esketamine is an active metabolite of ketamine, a drug that has been used for years as an anesthetic and sometimes as a street drug. Esketamine is not addictive and does not have the same abuse potential as ketamine.

The FDA approved Spravato (esketamine) in June 2019 for use in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults who have failed to respond adequately to two or more antidepressants at therapeutic doses for their current episode. The approval was based on results from two clinical trials showing that Spravato improved depression symptoms within 1 week after treatment compared with placebo.

Spravato Treatment for Depression

Depression is a serious medical condition that affects about 1 in every 20 people. Although there are many effective medications for depression, many people do not respond adequately to the first drug they try. If you have tried antidepressants before and are still experiencing symptoms of depression, such as low mood or anxiety, it may be time to consider other treatment options.

Spravato (esketamine) is a new medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). It belongs to a class of drugs called NMDA receptor antagonists, which work by blocking signals in the brain that may contribute to depression.

Spravato treatment centers

This medication has been studied in clinical trials as adjunctive therapy and has been found to be more effective when combined with an antidepressant than when used alone. It is important to understand, however, that it does not work for everyone – just like any other medication – so it may not be right for you if you have already tried other antidepressants without success.

Spravato has been found to be both safe and effective as an antidepressant medication; however, like any other medication it may have side effects such as nausea or vomiting which will lessen over time with continued use as your body adjusts itself to having higher levels of these chemicals circulating through its system

Author’s Bio

October 24, 2022September 19, 2024

Depression is treatable

Depression is a medical condition which affects your mood and can cause you to feel depressed. Depression isn’t just sadness – it’s a serious illness that can affect how you think, feel and behave. You’re not alone if you have depression, and there are things that can help.

Depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw – it’s an illness like any other, with symptoms that vary from person to person. It can affect people of any age, background or situation and doesn’t mean you’re “weak” or “lazy”.

You may find it hard to believe, but depression does not have to be permanent: there are lots of treatments available that work for many people.

Depression wears many masks

Depression is a serious medical condition that can affect your ability to function in everyday life. Depression is not a character flaw or weakness, nor is it a choice or something you can just snap out of. If you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s important to seek professional help right away; untreated depression can lead to serious health issues and even suicide.

There are many different types of depression, but most people experience at least one type during their lifetime:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) involves persistent low moods for at least two weeks without any other cause
Persistent Depressive Disorder (dysthymia) involves milder symptoms than those experienced with MDD, but lasts longer than two years without treatment
Bipolar Disorder (BD) involves extreme mood swings from periods of high energy and happiness to low energy and sadness

How does esketamine work, and will it really work for me?

Esketamine works by blocking the NMDA receptor, which is involved in regulating mood and memory. When ketamine blocks this receptor, it causes a change in brain chemistry. This can help with depression by changing the way your brain works to reduce feelings of sadness and hopelessness. It has proven to be effective in treating mild to moderate depression. It’s a safe option for those who have not responded to traditional treatments, and it’s easy to administer.

If you have been prescribed esketamine, it is likely because your doctor believes that the treatment may help to alleviate some of your symptoms. However, ketamine therapy is not for everyone. If you are considering taking part in an esketamine treatment, it is important to understand what this type of therapy entails so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it would be right for you.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy may be right for you. This, insurance-covered, ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

October 19, 2022September 19, 2024

Treating Depression with Spravato

While Ketamine is a successful option for 70% of treatment-resistant patients, lack of accessibility, trypanophobia (the fear of needles in a medical setting) and other speedbumps have kept many patients from venturing down the road to Ketamine IV Therapy. Ketamine Infusions have seen great success over the past few years, making it inevitable that a more easily deliverable alternative would be the next step in treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD.)

Enter Spravato Nasal Spray.

In 2019, the FDA approved Esketamine Spravato™ Nasal Spray as another variation of the Ketamine molecule that could also be effective for treating depression. Spravato is a prescription nasal spray of Esketamine, used for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with suicidal thoughts. Spravato contains S-ketamine, a different variation from the Ketamine molecule used in Ketamine IV Therapy.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, “Esketamine works in a similar fashion, [as conventional antidepressants] but unlike other antidepressants, it increases levels of glutamate, the most abundant chemical messenger in the brain.”

While conventional antidepressants are more gradual and slow-acting, Esketamine works rapidly and reduces depressive symptoms within a few hours. 33% of people with depression don’t respond to conventional antidepressants, but Esketamine has been known to reduce symptoms in the majority of these clinical trials.

Esketamine vs Ketamine

The Ketamine molecule used in Ketamine IV Therapy is racemic, a combination of the R-Ketamine and S-Ketamine molecule, whereas Esketamine is solely comprised of S-Ketamine, making it unique. There are also a number of other factors that differentiate Ketamine and the Esketamine in Spravato, including the method of delivery, bioavailability and dosage amounts.

Unlike traditional Ketamine Treatments, which are administered via IV, Spravato is self-administered in two to three intranasal doses administered in five-minute increments. Spravato is a professional, medical alternative for patients who would prefer to avoid an IV injection. Critically, Spravato is covered by most major insurances, in contrast to IV ketamine treatments.

For more information on Spravato treatments from Spravato Treatment Centers of NJ, visit our Spravato Frequently Asked Questions page.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy maybe right for you. This, insurance-covered, ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

Author’s Bio

October 18, 2022September 19, 2024

Esketamine Depression treatment options in New Jersey

Depression is a treatable medical condition that affects millions of people across the world. It’s estimated that some 18% of Americans suffer from depression at some point in their lives, and it affects persons of all ages and backgrounds.

At Spravato Treatment Centers NJ, we offer state-of-the-art depression treatment solutions. With our background in family Medicine, and our focus on treating the whole individual, we are so much more than your average ketamine infusion center. Critically, our staff is expert at getting this revolutionary treatment for depression, esketamine, to be covered by health insurance.

Spravato Treatment for Depression

Spravato is a new treatment for depression that has gained popularity in the mental health community. It works by targeting the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine to increase their levels in the brain, thus producing a feeling of euphoria and alleviating depression symptoms. In order to be treated with Spravato, you must be referred by your primary care doctor or psychiatrist to an approved clinic that can administer this treatment. The cost of Spravato varies depending on where you live, but it typically costs around $20 per treatment (treated once or twice a week for most patients).

Spravato treatment centers

Even if you choose a different Spravato Treatment Center, it is crucial that your designated treatment center is adept in getting your esketamine treatment for depression covered by health insurance.

You can find a qualified Spravato Treatment center using a handy tool from Janssen.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy maybe right for you. This, insurance-covered, ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

Author’s Bio

October 18, 2022September 19, 2024

Depression casts a long shadow over normal life….

Spravato Treatment for Depression

Spravato treatment centers

Even if you choose a different Spravato Treatment Center, it is crucial that your designated treatment center is adept in getting your esketamine treatment for depression covered by health insurance.

You can find a qualified Spravato Treatment center using a handy tool from Janssen.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy may be right for you. This, insurance-covered, ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

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Author’s Bio

October 16, 2022September 19, 2024

Spravato for depression

What is Major Depressive Disorder?

Major depressive disorder, or MDD, is a mental health condition that causes a person to feel extremely sad, hopeless, and disinterested in life. Individuals with MDD may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches or exhaustion.

MDD can last for several months or longer. People who have MDD may not be able to function normally at work or school because of their extreme sadness and other symptoms associated with depression.

Ketamine therapy for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Ketamine is a powerful and fast-acting antidepressant that has been used to treat depression in people who have not responded to other treatments. This can include those with chronic depression, treatment resistance, or suicidal ideation. It works by blocking the NMDA receptor and causing a release of neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.

Esketamine is an effective treatment for major depression when given intranasally in a safe, comfortable environment. It can take 60 minutes or more before its effects are felt, but some patients notice improvement within 10 minutes of administration. The most common side effects include dizziness, nausea/vomiting, dissociation (feeling unconnected from reality), confusion/disorientation and headache/pain at the injection site; these symptoms should last only one hour after administration ends. When Spravato is administered, the side effects described above are fairly rare, with most patients reporting feeling relaxed and refreshed by the end of their treatments. Some report Spravato sessions to be almost euphoric in the way they lift the depression blanket off the patient.

Author's Message

David Boguslavsky, MD is an experienced and dedicated family physician with an interest in mental health who has been practicing medicine for almost 2 decades.

If you are suffering from Major Depression, and have failed to see your depression lift despite 2 antidepressants tried, Spravato therapy maybe right for you. This, insurance-covered, ketamine therapy for depression has helped thousands of patients just like you. To learn more about the costs of Spravato, esketamine’s effectiveness, potential side effects, or to simply take the next step towards feeling better, please reach out to us, we would love to help!

Author’s Bio

October 1, 2022September 19, 2024

Depression is common.

Depression is a serious medical condition that affects millions of adults in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 16.1 million American adults suffer from depression. That’s a staggering 6.7% of the population!

Depression can cause a lot of different symptoms, including feeling sad, angry, or hopeless; losing interest in activities that you used to enjoy; having trouble sleeping or eating; or feeling tired all the time. Depression can also lead to physical problems, such as headaches or stomach aches.

While depression is common, it is also treatable. In fact, there have been major advancements in the treatment of depression in recent years. One of the most promising new treatments is ketamine therapy.

Unlike traditional medications for depression, which can take weeks or even months to work, ketamine therapy can provide relief within hours. Spravato/esketamine is covered by most insurance plans, including Aetna, Horizon, United, Cigna and Medicare.

Spravato Treatment Centers of New Jersey work with patients covered by various insurances to make this revolutionary depression therapy available to all NJ patients. In our future posts, we’ll cover what the typical experience would be like for a patient choosing Spravato / esketamine therapy to address their treatment-resistant Major Depression!