Spravato treatment for depression

What is Spravato?


Spravato® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for adults with treatment-resistant depression—people who haven’t had success with at least two other antidepressants. Unlike most antidepressants, which can take weeks to work, Spravato acts quickly by targeting areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.

Many people feel relief within hours, making it a game-changer for those who’ve been struggling with depression for years. Combined with talk therapy and another antidepressant, Spravato offers a well-rounded approach to improving mood, daily functioning, and overall quality of life.

Spravato is effective:
– Patients are 70% less likely to have a relapse of depressive symptoms
– Improvement in depressive symptoms can be felt in 24 hours
– Patients experience a 50% reduction in depressive symptoms by the end of their treatment

Is Spravato for me?

Spravato may be a good option if you have treatment-resistant depression (TRD), meaning you haven’t experienced significant improvement after trying at least two different oral antidepressants for major depressive disorder (MDD). It’s especially worth considering if you’re facing severe depressive episodes or suicidal thoughts.

Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to work, Spravato provides rapid relief by targeting areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Its fast-acting nature makes it an effective choice for those seeking immediate relief, especially when long-term symptom management hasn’t been successful with other treatments.

However, Spravato does require careful monitoring due to potential side effects. At Life Psychiatry, we’ll work with you to evaluate your personal health history, treatment goals, and overall mental health journey. Together, we’ll explore whether Spravato aligns with your needs and discuss its benefits and risks.

If you’re ready to explore new options for managing depression, reach out to us for an open and supportive discussion about whether Spravato is the right choice for you.

The process

Step 1: Evaluation

You’ll have a consultation with one of our trained medical providers to go over your medical history. They will ask about your symptoms, explain how Spravato works, and assess whether it’s the right treatment for you.

Step 2: Insurance

Our team will submit a prior authorization to your insurance provider to check your coverage. We’ll also review all available payment options with you as needed.

Step 3: Treatment

Once we’ve created a personalized treatment plan with you, you’ll be ready to start Spravato. The medication will be administered in our office twice a week during your first month, once a week during your second month, and as needed after the initial two months.

How to prepare for treatment day

Medications
– Take your oral antidepressant as usual on the day of your treatment, unless otherwise advised by your prescribing provider.
– Take any blood pressure medications as usual, and take any decongestants at least 1 hour before your session.
– Bring, but do not take, medications like ADHD medications, Suboxone, or benzodiazepines, until after your treatment.

Food and drink:
– Avoid eating for 2 hours before your treatment.
– Limit fluid intake for 30 minutes prior to your appointment

What to bring:
– The name and phone number of the driver who will take you home after treatment (required)
– Anti-nausea (Zofran), blood-pressure (Clonidine) or anti-anxiety (Propranolol) medications as prescribed by your provider
– Wear loose, comfortable clothing
– Headphones & music
– A blanket
– An eye mask
– A snack for after your treatment
– Candy to help with the bitter taste
– A book or journal

Timing and check out:
– After receiving your Spravato dose, you will stay in our office for 2 hours to be monitored and your blood pressure checked regularly.
– You will be required to assign someone to drive you home. You won’t be able to drive or operate machinery until a restful night of sleep.

Life Psychiatry has seen the positive impact of Spravato on those with depression. Call to discuss if it’s right for you.

At Life Psychiatry, we offer exceptional mental health care for residents of Mobile, AL, Baldwin County, and surrounding areas. Our dedicated team of mental health professionals provides personalized psychiatric evaluations and treatments for conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and more. Conveniently located in Mobile and Baldwin County, we are committed to delivering compassionate and effective care in a professional, welcoming environment. Led by Dr. Diaz, a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in behavioral health, our team is here to support you on your journey to optimal mental health. Explore our services today and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier future with Life Psychiatry.

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