Depression is a severe mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. For some, traditional treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy may not be effective. This is where innovative treatments like esketamine come into play. Esketamine, particularly in its nasal spray form known as Spravato®, provides new hope for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression.

Northeast Health Services is committed to offering leading-edge solutions to help our clients improve their mental well-being. If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, call 508.794.8711 to learn more about our Spravato® treatment services in Somerville and other locations in Massachusetts.

How Esketamine Nasal Spray Works for Depression Treatment

Esketamine is a derivative of ketamine, an anesthetic that has been used for decades. Unlike traditional antidepressants that target neurotransmitters like serotonin or norepinephrine, esketamine works on the brain’s glutamate system. Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain and plays a crucial role in mood regulation and cognition.

When administered, esketamine quickly targets the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor in the brain, rapidly increasing glutamate levels. This cascade effect ultimately helps form new neural connections, improving mood and cognitive function. The fast-acting nature of esketamine makes it particularly effective for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) who have not responded to other approaches, offering a significant shift in how we approach mental health care.

Differences Between Esketamine and Spravato® Treatment

While esketamine is available in various forms, the most common and Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved form for treating depression is the Spravato® nasal spray. Here’s a comparison to help you understand the differences:

• Administration – Spravato® is administered as a nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare provider, ensuring proper dosage.
• Speed of action – Both forms offer rapid relief—however, the nasal spray might be a more convenient and less invasive option.
• Supervision – The Spravato® treatment typically involves a supervised session, lasting about two hours, where clients are monitored for any immediate side effects.
• Effectiveness – Clinical trials have shown that Spravato® can offer significant relief for those with treatment-resistant depression, often within hours to days.

As we delve deeper into the topic of esketamine for depression, it’s essential to understand the specific protocols and considerations involved in its administration.

What to Expect from Spravato® Treatment

If you choose Spravato® treatment at Northeast Health Services in Somerville, here’s what to expect. First, you will have an initial consultation involving a thorough evaluation to determine if Spravato® is right for you. This includes reviewing your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals. During treatment sessions, you will self-administer the Spravato® nasal spray under a healthcare provider’s supervision and be monitored for about two hours to manage any immediate side effects. After the initial treatment, follow-up care will monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if needed.

The benefits of Spravato® are numerous. Clients often experience rapid relief, with noticeable improvements within hours to days. The treatment is administered under supervision to ensure efficacy. It is integrated with other therapies and medication management for a holistic approach to care. Flexible scheduling, including multiple locations and telehealth options, makes fitting treatment into a busy lifestyle easier.

Connect with Northeast Health Services and Start Depression Treatment in Massachusetts Today

Esketamine, particularly in its Spravato® nasal spray form, offers a promising new avenue for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. Targeting the brain’s glutamate system provides rapid relief and helps form new neural connections, offering hope where traditional treatments may have failed.

At Northeast Health Services, we are dedicated to making innovative treatments accessible to our community. If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.