How is Spravato Used to Treat Depression?

Spravato® is a relatively new way to help treat depression, particularly among patients that are diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder (MDD). For patients that have not found relief for their depression through more traditional treatment methods, Spravato may be an appropriate treatment solution to try. 

Spravato as a part of your depression treatment plan

Spravato is a part of a broader depression treatment plan and is not intended to be used on its own. It is typically combined with antidepressant medication, lifestyle changes, counseling, and other potentially helpful methods of treating TRD and MDD. 

What is Spravato?

Spravato, often referred to as esketamine, is a brand-name prescription medication that is used to treat severe depression. Spravato is administered as a nasal spray or through injection. Spravato must be prescribed by a mental health professional and is taken along with antidepressants as a part of a depression treatment plan. 

When is Spravato recommended?

Spravato was developed for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD). It can also help with the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) or for patients that show symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions due to their depression. Spravato must be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional after a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's medical history, symptoms, and more. As mentioned, Spravato is taken along with antidepressant medication and other methods of treating depression (i.e. lifestyle changes, counseling, etc.). 

What is the Spravato treatment process?

The Spravato treatment process begins with a consultation. This allows the healthcare provider to discuss the patient’s goals, assess their symptoms, review their medical history, and make a determination as to whether or not Spravato is appropriate. A follow-up visit can be scheduled for the first treatment session. Each treatment session must take place in the office and involves a nasal spray followed by an observation period of at least two hours. Patients are required to come into the office for one to two treatment sessions each week. 

Are there any side effects of Spravato?

The Spravato treatment process is safe when performed under the supervision of a mental health professional. However, there are some potential side effects of Spravato. The most notable side effects include but are not limited to:

• Disorientation
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Numbness
• Lack of energy

The healthcare provider can monitor the side effects during the observation period after each treatment session. 

What to expect long-term with Spravato

The healthcare provider can ultimately determine how many sessions the patient requires. In general, most Spravato patients are required to visit the healthcare provider twice each week to begin treatment and eventually reduce the treatment sessions to one per week until the patient no longer requires or benefits from Spravato. 

Schedule a consultation to learn more about Spravato

Are you interested in Spravato for treating depression? If you feel you may be a good candidate for treatment and have not found successful treatment for your depression, then contact our team by phone or message today.

Get more information here: https://futurepsychsolutions.com or call Future Psych Solutions at (803) 335-5232

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