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.

Depression can be suffocating

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.

 

Relief is in sight, even for those who've failed other treatments

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

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.

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 and PTSD are common in soldiers

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.

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 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!