One of the most challenging parts of living with depression is finding an effective treatment that works for you. While traditional antidepressants like SSRIs have been used for decades, they don’t work for everyone. In fact, there are many people living with depression who have tried multiple medications without finding relief, which is part of the criteria for what’s known as treatment-resistant depression. However, there is a treatment option available called Spravato® that has proven to be an effective approach for treatment-resistant depression. Understanding what this medication is, what it’s used for, and potential Spravato® side effects is essential to making an informed decision about your treatment plan.

Northeast Health Services offers Spravato® as part of our treatment options for depression. If you have questions about Spravato®, want to verify your insurance, or need to schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling 508.794.8711.

What Is Spravato®?

Spravato® is the brand name for a medication called esketamine, which has been approved by the FDA to treat treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder symptoms with suicidal thoughts. It belongs to a class of drugs known as NMDA receptor antagonists, which work by targeting glutamate receptors in the brain. This action helps increase levels of a neurotransmitter called glutamate, which is believed to play a role in the symptoms of depression.

Spravato® is used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for adults living with treatment-resistant depression. It is not intended to be used as a stand-alone treatment but rather in combination with approaches like individual therapy sessions. The medication is administered through a nasal spray and is typically given twice a week for the first four weeks, followed by a maintenance dose once every one to two weeks.

Potential Side Effects of Spravato®

As with any medication, there are potential side effects associated with Spravato®. Some of the most commonly reported side effects include:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Feeling disconnected from reality (dissociation)
• Increased blood pressure
• Feeling sleepy or sedated

These side effects are typically mild and short-lived. However, in rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as difficulty breathing, vision changes, or chest pain.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns about potential side effects with your treatment team and report any concerning symptoms immediately.

While Spravato® is considered a low-risk medication, it’s crucial to remember that everyone responds differently. What one person experiences may not be the same for another. Additionally, as with most medications, there is always the possibility of an allergic reaction. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or rash or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat after taking Spravato®, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Working Closely with Your Treatment Team

The best approach to managing potential side effects of Spravato® is to work closely with your treatment team. Discuss your concerns and any changes in symptoms or side effects with them. They can help monitor your progress, adjust the dosage if needed, and provide support throughout your treatment journey.

In addition to managing potential side effects, working closely with your treatment team also ensures that Spravato® is being used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for depression. While this medication may be effective for some individuals, it may not be the best approach for others. Your treatment team can work with you to determine the best course of action for your specific symptoms and needs.

Northeast Health Services has REMS Certified providers. REMS Certification is a process designed to ensure that healthcare providers possess the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and effectively manage the use of certain medications, particularly those with known risks or complexities. By obtaining a REMS Certification, healthcare providers demonstrate their commitment to maintaining high standards of patient care and safety.

Call Northeast Health Services Today to Get Started

If you or a loved one is living with treatment-resistant depression and are interested in learning more about Spravato® as a potential treatment option, contact Northeast Health Services today by calling 508.794.8711. For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment, and for existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly. Our team can answer any questions you may have and provide more information about our treatment approach. Together, we can work towards finding an effective solution for managing depression disorder symptoms and improving your overall well-being.