Treatment refractory depression is a very prevalent and debilitating problem. Our clinic offers some much needed treatment options as alternatives to standard antidepressant medications which often fail due to inefficacy or side effects. In addition to TMS which we’ve discussed in prior blogs, we are also happy to offer Spravato (esketamine), another treatment for treatment-resistant depression. FDA-approved since 2019, Spravato is an intranasal spray that is used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression in adults.
What should you expect from Spravato? When first starting Spravato treatment, you will have two sessions a week for four weeks, after which Dr. Cho will review with you to decide if Spravato should be continued. At each session, you will self administer the Spravato nasal spray under the supervision of our staff, after which you will rest comfortably for 2 hours while our staff routinely monitors you for possible side effects. Common side effects include feeling sedated and/or dissociated, as well as a temporary increase in blood pressure. After you receive your treatment, you will not be able to drive or operate other heavy machinery for the rest of the day, so a ride is required when you receive Spravato treatment.
Have studies shown Spravato to be an effective treatment for treatment-resistant depression? In a 2021 academic review of 5 studies on the efficacy of Spravato with an antidepressant versus a placebo with an antidepressant, the study found that per 100 patients, the group that was administered Spravato with an antidepressant had 5-21 additional cases of remission and 14-17 additional patients who responded well to the treatment. The review was able to conclude that Spravato plus an antidepressant had a positive benefit in patients with treatment-resistant depression.
If you are struggling with depression and anxiety and/or antidepressant treatments have not helped, Spravato may be an option for you. If interested, please give us a call at (832) 699-7922 or visit the link in our bio to learn more. Our friendly staff are happy to answer any questions and schedule you for a consultation!
