SPRAVATO® for Treatment-Resistant Depression
What’s SPRAVATO®?
SPRAVATO®, the brand name for esketamine, is an FDA-approved nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), PTSD, and other mental health disorders. It’s an innovative prescription medication offering relief to those who have been let down by conventional approaches, such as antidepressants or talk therapy.
How SPRAVATO® Works
Traditional antidepressants target serotonin or dopamine and can take 4-6 weeks before any measurable improvement is felt. SPRAVATO® (esketamine), on the other hand, acts on glutamate, a major neurotransmitter that's involved in mood regulation and neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to change through neural reorganization or growth.
By targeting glutamate, SPRAVATO® promotes the growth of new, healthy neural connections, which can contribute to an improved mindset and enhanced emotional resilience.
You’ll self-administer this nasal spray under the guidance and supervision of our licensed clinicians and will be monitored for a short time afterward to ensure your safety and comfort.
SPRAVATO® Side Effects and Benefits
Esketamine nasal spray for TRD is offering new hope and relief for many, but, like any medication, it’s important to understand both the side effects and potential benefits.
While SPRAVATO® is generally well-tolerated, mild side effects can occur, including:
- Feelings of dissociation
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Fatigue
- Headache
If you experience any of these effects, they typically subside within one to two hours.
Benefits of SPRAVATO® include:
Rapid Symptom Relief
Some notice improvements within hours of the first dose.
Neuroplasticity Support
Because it’s believed SPRAVATO® promotes new neural connections, it could support long-term mood regulation.
Safe
Each treatment is administered on-site in a controlled environment under our supervision.
Is Esketamine Nasal Spray in San Diego Right for You?
SPRAVATO® may be an appropriate treatment if you:
- Have tried two or more antidepressants without significant relief
- Are looking for a treatment that does not require daily medication
- Can commit to monitored, in-clinic sessions
- Have major depressive disorder with thoughts of self-harm
- Are dealing with antidepressant medication side effects, such as insomnia, fatigue, or weight gain
- Are in acute distress and need fast-acting relief
Not everyone is a good candidate for esketamine nasal spray. Before beginning treatment, we'll conduct a comprehensive consultation, reviewing your medical history and symptoms to ensure SPRAVATO® is appropriate for you.
Why It’s a Preferred Treatment
FDA-Approved
SPRAVATO® is the first and only FDA-approved nasal spray specifically for treatment-resistant depression in adults.
Fast-Acting
Some experience reduced symptoms within hours of their first session, with many finding relief after just a few days.
Clinically Proven
In a clinical study, those given SPRAVATO® and an antidepressant had a rapid, better reduction in symptoms than those given a placebo and antidepressant.*
Sustained Results
In a long-term study, it was shown that those who stayed on SPRAVATO® were less likely to experience a return of symptoms than those who stopped.*
IV Ketamine vs. Esketamine SPRAVATO®
Ketamine. IV infusions. Esketamine. SPRAVATO®. Nasal spray.
If you’re new to these innovative treatments, it can feel like a lot of information to take in. Let’s break it down a bit more.
Ketamine has two components that can be used to achieve different outcomes and is administered through an IV infusion. That means it goes directly into the bloodstream for quick absorption, potentially offering faster relief.
Esketamine is one of the components of ketamine and is used in the brand SPRAVATO®. This form is self-administered as a nasal spray under the guidance of a licensed practitioner. It's FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, which means that for many, it's covered by insurance.
No matter which form you receive, you’ll need to:
- Come to our San Diego mental health clinic
- Receive treatment in person
- Be monitored for a period of time after each session
- Arrange transportation, as you’re not allowed to drive immediately after treatment
Our experienced clinicians will review your symptoms, health history, and how you've responded to past treatments to determine the best course of treatment for you.
SPRAVATO® Treatment: What to Expect
01
Consultation
We’ll start with a complimentary consultation to assess your medical history, needs, and suitability for SPRAVATO®.
02
In-Person Treatment
You’ll come into our San Diego mental health clinic, where your clinician will walk you through how to use SPRAVATO®. You’ll then self-administer the spray and relax in a comfortable treatment room for monitoring.
03
Ongoing Support
You’ll complete your initial treatment phase before evaluating your response, needs, and any ongoing sessions that may be needed.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
SPRAVATO® Treatment FAQs
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