When depression does not improve with standard medications, many people begin to explore other treatment options that offer new hope. Two of the most recognized alternative therapies for treatment-resistant depression include transcranial magnetic stimulation, often called TMS therapy, and
Spravato, a prescription nasal spray.
While both treatments can help individuals whose symptoms have not responded to traditional antidepressants, their processes differ. Understanding the differences between TMS therapy and Spravato can help you or your loved one feel more confident when deciding the next steps in your treatment options. Contact
Genesis Behavioral Health Services to schedule your consultation and learn more.
What Is TMS Therapy?
Although used to treat depressive symptoms like Spravato, TMS therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of your brain linked to mood regulation. A provider performs the treatment, which does not require anesthesia, in their office. When receiving TMS therapy, you will remain awake and alert during each session and can return to your daily routine immediately afterward.
The FDA first cleared TMS therapy in 2008 for adults with major depressive disorder who did not respond to at least one antidepressant medication. Stimulating specific brain regions can help improve communication between nerve cells and reduce symptoms of depression over time. A typical course of treatment involves multiple sessions per week for several weeks.
What Is Spravato?
Spravato differs from TMS therapy in that it is a prescription nasal spray that contains esketamine, a form of ketamine. The medication is approved for use in adults with
treatment-resistant depression and for depressive symptoms associated with major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions. Unlike standard medications that may take weeks to work, Spravato can begin affecting certain brain pathways more quickly by targeting receptors involved in mood and stress responses.
Because Spravato can cause temporary side effects, such as dizziness or changes in blood pressure, a medical professional must administer it in a certified health care setting. When you receive Spravato at our clinic, you will stay in our office for monitoring after each dose to ensure your safety.
How Do TMS Therapy and Spravato Work?
Although both TMS therapy and Spravato can alleviate treatment-resistant depression, they diverge in their mechanisms of action. TMS therapy uses magnetic energy to activate nerve cells in the brain. The goal is to strengthen neural connections that support your healthy mood regulation. Over time, repeated stimulation can help restore more balanced brain activity.
Spravato uses a medication-based approach. It interacts with glutamate receptors in the brain, which play a role in learning, memory, and emotional regulation. By influencing these pathways, the medication may help improve mood more rapidly than traditional antidepressants.
Key Differences
TMS therapy is device-based and does not involve medication, whereas Spravato is a medication administered as a nasal spray. As TMS therapy and Spravato have distinct treatment methods, you can expect different side effects. With TMS therapy, you may experience mild scalp discomfort or headache, while Spravato may cause temporary sedation, dizziness, or increased blood pressure.
Generally speaking, TMS therapy often requires frequent visits over several weeks. Spravato treatments occur less frequently but require a period of observation time after each dose. These factors, combined with your medical history, current medications, and symptom severity, will help your provider determine the most appropriate treatment.
Contact Us To Learn How TMS Therapy Differs From Spravato
Our licensed clinicians at Genesis Behavioral Health Services understand that depression affects every person differently. We provide individual therapy, family therapy, medication management, and Spravato treatment for individuals experiencing treatment-resistant depression.
When depression feels overwhelming, receiving evidence-based care and compassionate support can make a meaningful difference. Call us to
schedule a consultation to learn more about the differences between TMS therapy and Spravato.
