Spravato® is a safe and non-invasive form of treatment for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder. Each treatment session is personalized for the patient, but there is a general process that Spravato providers typically follow. This guide highlights the Spravato treatment process to help you decide if you should consider treatment.
The Spravato treatment process involves a consultation with a mental health professional and follow-up visits to administer the Spravato nasal spray in the office if deemed beneficial for the patient. It is important to discuss Spravato with a mental health professional before starting treatment.
Spravato is an FDA-approved prescription medication that is administered through nasal spray for patients that have a severe form of depression. Specifically, Spravato treats adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder (MDD). Spravato may also be prescribed to patients that do not have TRD or MDD but have severe depression symptoms such as suicidal thoughts or actions. Spravato is given along with antidepressant medication.
The first step in the Spravato process is a consultation. The first visit gives the healthcare provider an opportunity to assess the patient’s symptoms, medical history, treatment goals, and more to determine if they are a good candidate for Spravato. Treatment is typically not administered on the first visit. The healthcare provider can also answer any questions the patient has. Lastly, they can schedule a follow-up visit for the first Spravato treatment session.
On the day of the Spravato treatment session, the patient can administer the Spravato nasal spray themselves in the office. This is done under the supervision of the healthcare provider. Before doing so, the healthcare provider takes the patient’s blood pressure. A blood pressure reading is also taken after the nasal spray. There is an observation after each treatment session for at least two hours to monitor how the patient is feeling and any side effects (see below).
Although Spravato is safe to use for most patients with depression, there are some potential side effects to be mindful of before beginning treatment. These side effects include but are not limited to dizziness, nausea, vomiting, disorientation, and a lack of energy. Some patients, however, experience very few or no side effects.
The number of Spravato treatment sessions the healthcare provider recommends depends on a variety of factors. In general, patients receive two doses of Spravato each week in separate sessions. After the first several weeks, the healthcare provider may reduce the number of sessions to one per week.
Here are answers to several frequently asked questions about Spravato treatment. The goal of this information is to provide you with as much information as possible. However, keep in mind that every individual is unique, and it is important to discuss your specific situation with a licensed mental health professional to determine if Spravato treatment is right for you.
As discussed, Spravato is used to treat treatment-resistant depression. This is a condition in which antidepressants, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other common types of depression treatment have not worked. The best way to determine if Spravato is a good option for your treatment needs is to visit with a mental health professional to discuss all available treatment options.
The Spravato dosage does not lead to sedation for most patients. However, it is not uncommon for patients to doze off and feel sleepy during treatment. This is because Spravato produces a relaxed and euphoric state that helps alleviate symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. Any feelings of tiredness should go away soon after the session ends and during the in-office recovery period.
There is no evidence to suggest that Spravato that is used carefully in appropriate doses within a supervised facility leads to dependence (or addiction) to the substance. With that said, there are ties to ketamine that are used for recreational purposes and can be addicting when taken irresponsibly, so it is important to avoid ketamine use outside of a supervised facility.
If you have not found relief for your depression, then Spravato may be able to help. Here at our office, we take pride in helping our patients who may struggle with depression find long-term relief. Among other potential treatments, we can help you determine if Spravato is appropriate and help you throughout the treatment process.
Get more information here: https://mb.futurepsychsolutions.com or call Future Psych Ketamine Clinics at (843) 788-9718
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