Spravato Treatment Resistant Depression – Inlandpsych Medical Group

Spravato (esketamine) is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). TRD is a term used to describe depression that has not responded adequately to multiple previous antidepressant treatments. Here are some key points about Spravato treatment for TRD:

Mechanism of Action: Spravato is a nasal spray medication that contains esketamine, a form of ketamine. Ketamine is thought to work on different brain pathways compared to traditional antidepressants. It has rapid-acting effects on mood and can provide relief for some individuals with TRD.

Supervised Administration: Spravato is administered in a healthcare setting, often under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider. This is because it can cause side effects, including sedation and dissociation, which require monitoring.
Treatment Process: Initially, individuals with TRD receive Spravato two times a week, with subsequent sessions being tapered to less frequent intervals. Each session involves the nasal spray administration followed by a monitoring period.
Complementary Treatment: Typically, individuals receiving Spravato continue to take an oral antidepressant medication as well. The combination of Spravato and an oral antidepressant is intended to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
Safety and Monitoring: Due to the potential for side effects, individuals are monitored for a period after each Spravato administration. This monitoring ensures their safety and helps healthcare providers assess the impact of the treatment.
Effectiveness: Spravato has shown rapid-acting antidepressant effects in some individuals with TRD. However, not everyone responds to the treatment, and the level of response can vary from person to person.