Spravato, also known as esketamine or nasal esketamine, is a prescription medication used for the treatment of depression in adults. It is a type of antidepressant that works by targeting the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a role in regulating mood and emotions. So, what is Spravato used for if there are other antidepressants available on the market? Spravato sets itself apart by targeting the most severe symptoms of depression and combating treatment-resistant depression.
How Does Spravato Work?
Spravato is a nasal spray that contains esketamine, a chemical similar to ketamine. Ketamine has been used as an anesthetic for decades and has also shown potential in treating depression. When Spravato is taken nasally, it binds to certain receptors in the brain called N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors.
By doing so, it works differently than traditional antidepressants, which target serotonin or norepinephrine receptors in the brain. Research shows that Spravato works to target treatment-resistant depression even after use, with its effects seen within hours as opposed to weeks like traditional SSRI antidepressants.
What is Spravato Used For? Hope For Treatment-Resistant Depression
Depression is considered treatment-resistant when traditional antidepressant medications have not been effective in improving symptoms. This isn’t uncommon, with around 50-60% of people experiencing treatment-resistant depression following a trial of oral antidepressants.
Unfortunately, while somewhat common, treatment-resistant depression can be incredibly difficult for people to manage. After trying two or more antidepressants, those with depression might experience a loss of hope and persisting, severe symptoms.
Spravato has been shown to help reduce these symptoms when two or more traditional antidepressants haven’t worked. In fact, in 2019 the FDA approved Spravato for use in treatment-resistant depression based on multiple studies showing its effectiveness.
Traditional antidepressants are a great option for people with depression, and can be used alongside Spravato. Spravato is not taken daily like many antidepressants are, but is instead administered in a medical setting. Patients are observed for at least two hours after taking the medication, and a treatment session can last up to an hour.
Antidepressant medications can take weeks or even months to begin working. This means that people with depression may have to endure persisting symptoms while waiting for a traditional antidepressant to begin working. Spravato offers relief within hours, providing hope and reducing suffering much more quickly than traditional antidepressants.
Antidepressants can also have some negative side effects, especially if someone tries them for the first time. Cycling between antidepressants can cause symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach discomfort
- Insomnia
- Loss of libido
- Anxiety
- Agitation
Instead of having to endure new side effects with each new medication, Spravato offers a faster and potentially more effective solution for treatment-resistant depression.
Spravato to Combat Suicidality
Suicide is one of the most devastating consequences and risks associated with depression. Traditional antidepressants, while effective for some, may not be enough to prevent suicidal thoughts or actions in those with treatment-resistant depression.
Spravato has been shown to significantly reduce suicidal ideation in patients who have not responded well to traditional antidepressant treatments. Research shows that those who took Spravato alongside their oral antidepressant experienced reduced depressive symptoms including suicidal ideation, or thinking about suicide. When it comes to saving lives, new treatments like Spravato offer hope for those with treatment-resistant depression and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Potential Use in Bipolar Disorder
While Spravato is currently only indicated for people with treatment-resistant depression and with severe suicidal ideation, there is more research that shows it might help people with bipolar disorder. New research shows that intranasal esketamine like Spravato may be safe when combined with mood stabilizer therapy in people with bipolar disorder without a recent history of manic or hypomanic episodes. While there is still a long way to go in terms of trials, clinical studies, and FDA approvals, Spravato might one day offer a treatment option for people with bipolar disorder who are at high risk of suicide.
Find Relief From Depression Today
Depression, especially when it is resistant to traditional antidepressant treatments, can be a dangerous and life-threatening condition. For those who experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors, new treatments like Spravato offer hope for managing symptoms and reducing the risk of suicide. At Pacific Mind Health, our mental health treatment clinic in Long Beach, CA, is proud to offer Spravato in addition to other evidence-based treatments for depression. From transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy to CBT and exposure therapy, we’re excited to bring you the most cutting-edge treatments available. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, call us today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options.
