Spravato is a prescription nasal spray that belongs to a group of medications called NMDA receptor blockers. The main ingredient in this medication is esketamine. Spravato, usually taken with an oral antidepressant, is designed for adults with treatment-resistant depression.
Someone has Treatment resistant depression when they do not see success from two or more different antidepressant medications. This type of treatment can also help people who have major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions.
Spravato Treatment: How it Works
A patient using Spravato will typically administer the nasal spray themselves in a medical facility or mental health treatment center. The session must be supervised by a specialist who controls the process and dosage. The professional will also show the patient how to use the device and administer Spravato. After the patient uses the nasal spray, they will be asked to remain at the facility for approximately two hours for additional monitoring. This is done to ensure that the patient does not experience any side effects.
Possible side effects of Spravato therapy include:
- Dissociation
- Dizziness
- Spin sensations
- Sedation
- Nausea
- Numbness
- Feeling anxious
- Lack of energy
- Increased blood pressure
These side effects can be uncomfortable, but are usually not dangerous. Side effects should appear immediately after treatment and disappear within a few hours. But in some cases, side effects can last up to about a day.
Due to the possibility of side effects immediately following treatment, patients should make plans to have a family member or friend drive them to and from their Spravato therapy session.
Spravato Treatment Process Review
The Spravato treatment process involves a consultation with a mental health professional and follow-up visits to administer Spravato nasal spray in the office if it is deemed beneficial for the patient. It is important to discuss Spravato with a mental health professional before beginning treatment.
Spravato explained: Spravato is an FDA-approved prescription medication that is administered via nasal spray to patients suffering from a severe form of depression. Specifically, Spravato treats adults with treatment resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder (MDD).
Spravato may also be prescribed to patients who do not have TRD or MDD but have severe symptoms of depression, such as suicidal thoughts or actions. Spravato is given together with antidepressant medications.
The consultation process: The first step in the Spravato process is a consultation. The first visit gives the healthcare provider the opportunity to evaluate the patient's symptoms, medical history, treatment goals, and more to determine if they are a good candidate for Spravato.
Treatment is usually not given at the first visit. The healthcare provider can also answer any questions the patient has. Finally, they can schedule a follow-up visit for their first Spravato treatment session.
What to expect on treatment days: On the day of the Spravato treatment session, the patient can administer Spravato nasal spray themselves in the office. This is done under the supervision of the healthcare provider.
Before doing so, the doctor takes the patient's blood pressure. A blood pressure reading is also taken after the nasal spray. There is an observation after each treatment session for at least two hours to monitor how the patient feels and any side effects (see below).
Possible side effects and aftercare: Although Spravato is safe to use for most patients with depression, there are some potential side effects to be aware of before starting treatment. These side effects include, but are not limited to, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, disorientation, and lack of energy. Some patients, however, experience very few or no side effects.
Other Tips to Prepare for Nasal Esketamine Treatment
At SOZO Centers we do everything possible to schedule your treatment in the afternoon or when it is most convenient for you. We encourage you to view each treatment session as an opportunity to relax and take care of your mental health.
If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your doctor or the SOZO care team. At SOZO Centers, we will help you feel comfortable preparing for each treatment session.
Are You Struggling With Symptoms of Depression?
If you haven't found relief from your depression, then Spravato can help. Here at our office, we pride ourselves on helping our patients who may struggle with depression find long-term relief. Among other possible treatments, we can help you determine if Spravato is appropriate and assist you throughout the treatment process.
Spravato Nasal Spray in SOZO Centers
Spravato offers hope to people who have struggled with treatment-resistant depression and provides an alternative when traditional antidepressants have proven ineffective. As ongoing research and clinical studies shed light on the potential benefits and long-term effects of esketamine therapy, the therapeutic landscape for TRD continues to evolve.
Patient experiences during treatment sessions at SOZO Centers involve supervised administration and follow-up in a private room. It is essential that patients have open communication with their healthcare provider to discuss the appropriateness of Spravato therapy and the best approach to managing their depressive symptoms.
As we continue to advance the field of mental health, Spravato shows great promise in offering new hope to those struggling with treatment-resistant depression.
To begin your journey with Spravato, contact us at SOZO Centers or visit our Spravato treatment center page for more information. We are currently located in Newark, Delaware to serve your needs. We hope to hear from you soon!
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