What is Spravato, and How Can It Help?

What is Spravato, and How Can It Help?

Spravato (esketamine) has emerged as a promising treatment option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression, offering a new pathway to relief for those who have not responded to traditional antidepressant therapies. At Hopewell Health Solutions, we understand that each person’s journey with depression is unique, and for some, conventional medications don’t provide the relief needed. Spravato provides an innovative approach with a rapid-acting formula that works differently from typical antidepressants.

Why Spravato?

Spravato is designed specifically for people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), which is defined as depression that hasn't responded to at least two different antidepressant treatments. While most antidepressants work by targeting serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, Spravato acts on a different pathway in the brain, targeting the NMDA receptor through the glutamate system. This distinction allows for quicker, sometimes life-changing results, especially when conventional treatments have fallen short.

Understanding the Science Behind Spravato

Spravato is a derivative of ketamine, an anesthetic that's been used for decades but is only recently recognized for its antidepressant properties. By targeting the glutamate system, Spravato rapidly promotes synaptic connections in the brain. This process is thought to help "reset" certain aspects of brain function related to mood, providing relief for depression in as little as 24 hours after administration.

How is Spravato Administered?

Spravato is administered as a nasal spray, a unique delivery method that allows for fast absorption. At Hopewell Health Solutions, Spravato sessions are conducted under close supervision by members of our Med Team to ensure the safety and comfort of our clients.

1. Session Structure: Patients will be monitored throughout the entire treatment process in a controlled setting. Each session typically lasts between two and three hours, including monitoring time after administration.
2. Application Schedule: Treatment usually begins with two sessions per week for the first four weeks, followed by a gradual decrease in frequency, depending on individual needs and responses.
3. Supervised Treatment: Patients must stay at the clinic for monitoring immediately after using Spravato, as it can cause temporary dissociation or mild sedation.

Timeframe for Treatment

For many, initial relief may be felt within the first 24 hours, a significant difference from traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks or even months to show effects. The course of treatment spans several weeks, typically involving twice-weekly sessions initially, followed by maintenance sessions as needed.

What to Expect During a Spravato Session

Spravato sessions are structured with patient comfort in mind. Here’s a breakdown of what a session looks like:

• Pre-session Check: We start with a baseline assessment of symptoms, mood, and vital signs.
• Spravato Administration: The nasal spray is self-administered under supervision.
• Observation Period: After administration, clients are monitored for at least two hours to assess response and manage any side effects.
• Post-session Reflection: We conclude with a debrief to discuss how the session felt and any changes in mood or symptoms.

Benefits and Limitations of Spravato

Benefits:

• Rapid Onset: Relief can begin within hours, offering hope for those in immediate need.
• Alternative Mechanism: Targets brain pathways differently than other antidepressants, which may lead to improvement when other treatments haven’t worked.
• Adjunctive Option: Spravato is used in conjunction with traditional oral antidepressants, potentially boosting their effectiveness.

Limitations:

• Not for Everyone: Spravato is specifically approved for adults with treatment-resistant depression. It’s not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions, like uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, dissociation, and potential for sedation. Our team provides close supervision to ensure any side effects are managed immediately.
• Clinic-Based: Due to its dissociative effects, Spravato must be administered in a healthcare setting, meaning it isn’t a medication you can take at home.

Is Spravato Right for You?

Choosing Spravato is a decision that involves a thorough assessment to determine if it’s the right fit. At Hopewell Health Solutions, our team will work with you to assess your history with depression, previous treatments, and current health status to make the best possible recommendation.