Spravato Treatment

Spravato (Esketamine) Treatment at Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts

If you have been struggling with depression that hasn’t improved with traditional treatments, you’re not alone. Many individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) feel frustrated and hopeless after trying multiple medications without relief. Spravato® offers a new option that works differently from traditional antidepressants and is covered by most insurance plans. At Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts, we provide a safe and supportive environment for patients to explore this innovative treatment and take the next step toward feeling better.

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The Mar Y Sol Promise

Mission: At Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts, we empower clients across their lifespans to live the lives they want through individualized, holistic mental health treatment.

Vision: Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts is the pinnacle of mental health treatment because we treat your entire being in ways that enhance happiness so you can reach your goals.

What is Spravato?

Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray is an FDA-approved treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal thoughts. Manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Spravato is administered via a nasal spray device under the supervision of a healthcare provider in a certified healthcare setting, ensuring patient safety and adherence to the Spravato® Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS).

How Does Spravato Work?

Spravato contains esketamine hydrochloride, a type of medicine related to ketamine, which helps treat depression in a new way. It works by blocking a part of the brain called the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which plays a role in mood and emotions.

This is different from regular oral antidepressants, which work on brain chemicals called monoamine neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. Instead, esketamine acts faster by changing how the brain's chemical signals work, helping to relieve depressive symptoms within hours or days.  In clinical studies patients showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms four weeks into treatment when compared to a placebo.

Who Can Benefit from Spravato?

Spravato is prescribed for individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not responded adequately to at least two different oral antidepressants, such as SSRIs or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are common types of depression medication. It is usually given along with an oral antidepressant to improve results.

(can you add that this medication is approved as monotherapy or in combination with an antidepressant, some pts ask me this, the monotherapy was actually just approved recently in the last week or so )

Administration of Spravato

Spravato treatment occurs in a controlled healthcare setting, where patients self-administer the intranasal medication under the supervision of trained healthcare professionals. Each treatment session lasts approximately 2 hours, during which patients are monitored for potential side effects, such as dissociation, sedation, and increased blood pressure.

Typical Treatment Schedule

Typical Treatment Schedule
Each patient will first receive a full comprehensive evaluation.

  • Month 1: Two treatments per week

  • Month 2: One treatment per week

  • Month 3 and Beyond (Maintenance Phase): Frequency of treatment depends on the patient's symptoms and progress. Treatments may be weekly, biweekly, or monthly.

Potential Side Effects

As with any medication, Spravato may have side effects, which can include:

  • Common side effects: Sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, and feeling disconnected from reality.

  • Serious risks: Increased blood pressure, respiratory depression, and potential worsening of depression.

  • Boxed Warning: Due to the risk of sedation and dissociation, patients should not drive or operate machinery until the next day.

Safety Considerations

Patients with conditions such as hypertension, aneurysmal vascular disease, or arteriovenous malformation should discuss their medical history with their provider before starting Spravato. Additionally, Spravato should not be used by individuals who are breastfeeding or pregnant without consulting a healthcare provider.

Monitoring and Support

Throughout the treatment journey, healthcare providers work closely with patients and caregivers, offering support to manage side effects and track improvements using standardized scales such as the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) or the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) two screening tools for measuring the severity of depression.

Effectiveness and Clinical Trials

Clinical trials have demonstrated Spravato's effectiveness in reducing symptoms of depression, with randomized studies showing a significant improvement compared to placebo groups. Many patients experience short-term relief, which can be sustained with ongoing treatment.

Commitment to Mental Health

At Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts, we are dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatment options like Spravato to help individuals achieve restful sleep, regain functionality, and enhance their overall mental health. Our team offers personalized care plans to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the use of Spravato as part of your mental health treatment plan. Call us today at  (203) 456-6989.

Spravato Frequently Asked Questions

  • Spravato works by targeting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in the brain, which plays a role in mood regulation. Unlike traditional antidepressants that target neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, Spravato provides rapid relief by altering brain signaling pathways.

  • Spravato is intended for individuals diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not responded adequately to at least two oral antidepressants. Your healthcare provider can help determine if Spravato is right for you.

  • Spravato is self-administered via a nasal spray under the direct supervision of trained healthcare professionals at Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts. Each treatment session lasts about two hours to monitor for potential side effects.

  • Yes, Spravato is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and private insurers. Our team at Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts can assist with verifying coverage and guiding you through the insurance process.

  • Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, and a feeling of disconnection from reality (dissociation). These effects are typically mild and monitored during treatment sessions.

  • Serious risks can include increased blood pressure, respiratory depression, and a potential worsening of depression. Due to the possibility of sedation and dissociation, patients should not drive or operate machinery until the day after treatment.

  • Yes, Spravato is usually prescribed alongside a traditional oral antidepressant to enhance its effectiveness. Your healthcare provider will determine the best treatment plan for you

  • Individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, aneurysmal vascular disease, or arteriovenous malformation should discuss their medical history with their provider. Spravato is not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a healthcare professional

  • Many patients experience improvement in depressive symptoms within hours or days of starting treatment. However, individual results may vary, and ongoing treatment may be necessary to sustain improvements.

  • Our team offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to care, providing close monitoring, support, and assessment of progress using standardized scales like the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS).

  • To begin treatment, schedule a consultation with Mar Y Sol Mental Health Experts. Our team will evaluate your condition, discuss treatment options, and assist with insurance verification to ensure access to care.

Disclaimer

Spravato is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for individuals with a history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or certain medical conditions. Always consult with a qualified health care provider to determine if this treatment is right for you.  We recommend that you continue with your current out patient provider during ketamine treatment.