Spravato® Treatment
Spravato® is a novel medical treatment that helps in the fight against serious mental health conditions, such as depression and PTSD, when traditional treatments don’t work. The experienced professionals at Mental Wellness of Florida can help you determine if Spravato® treatment is right for you and provide a safe space to try this treatment option.
What Is Spravato®?
Spravato® is a nasal spray that contains esketamine as its primary ingredient. Esketamine is derived from a specific part of the ketamine molecule, providing greater potency compared to traditional ketamine treatments. This increased potency allows for effective treatment at lower doses, which may lead to fewer side effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specifically approved Spravato® for nasal spray administration to treat individuals with:
Major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal ideation (SI) involves persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or irritability. The pervasive sense of hopelessness that many individuals with MDD experience can lead to suicidal thoughts.
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD): This type of depression does not improve after trying at least two different antidepressant treatments. A diagnosis of TRD may be given when various classes of medication do not lead to significant improvement, or when the side effects of the treatments are unbearable.
Since Spravato® nasal spray is FDA approved, it is usually covered by most health insurance plans, making it accessible to patients.
How Spravato® Treats Depression
How Spravato® Treatment Works
Preparing for Spravato® Treatment
Spravato® differs from traditional antidepressants, which increase neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine to improve mood. Instead, Spravato® targets glutamate, a neurotransmitter that fosters new communication pathways between brain cells. This is important in depression, where reduced communication between brain regions contributes to negative thoughts, cognitive issues, and despair. Consequently, Spravato® can provide rapid relief, with many patients experiencing benefits within a few sessions.
In Miami, our ketamine treatment includes: initial consultation to assess your needs and history; personalized treatment plan creation; in-office Spravato® sessions with supervision due to side effects; and regular check-ins to optimize treatment. We may also suggest talk therapy or TMS, covered by insurance, for a comprehensive approach to depression.
Spravato® treatment prep: Arrange transport home; no driving until the next day after sleep. No food 4 hours before, no liquids 30 minutes before. Avoid heavy meals. Take nasal sprays 1 hour prior. No alcohol 24 hours before; avoid Lamictal/benzos 6 hours prior. Relax the evening before; avoid stress.
Spravato® Treatment Side Effects
Spravato® may cause dizziness, raised blood pressure, disassociation, or sedation, mostly during early sessions. Other side effects: nausea, sleepiness, headaches, feeling drunk, anxiety, elation. We closely monitor and adjust treatment as needed.
Who Shouldn’t Take Spravato®?
Spravato® is best for those without substance abuse or major health issues. It's not for people with blood vessel disease, brain hemorrhage history, abnormal vein/artery connections, or allergies to its ingredients. We'll assess if Spravato® is right for you or suggest an alternative.
Explore Spravato® Treatment with
Mental Wellness of Florida
Depression can be challenging to navigate, but remember—you don’t have to face it alone. With the guidance of the professionals at Mental Wellness of Florida, you can explore advanced treatment options like Spravato®. Our team is committed to helping you find relief from treatment-resistant depression and guide you on your journey to better mental health.
Call (305) 546-4578 or book an appointment online today!
