Ketamine (Spravato)

Ketamine (Spravato)

Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment for depressed patients who have not had good success with medication management and therapy.

It is a nasal spray given in an office setting where patients are monitored for two hours. Patients come in to do treatments twice a week for four weeks, then once a week for four weeks, and then every two weeks after that. Over time, some treatments are spaced out even further.

Some patients will see a positive response in their symptoms in the first few treatments but it is also common to require a few weeks of treatment to see improvement. Patients often note improvement in mood, more energy, more enjoyment in activities, and more motivation.

What is Spravato? How Does it work?

Spravato is a prescription medicine used with an antidepressant taken by mouth for adults with TRD. Esketamine, the active ingredient in Spravato, has a unique mechanism that targets different pathways in the brain to those affected by other known antidepressants.

Unlike many other antidepressants, Spravato is administered via nasal spray, allowing it to be quickly absorbed. It works to rebalance certain chemical messengers in the brain that affect mood. Post-treatment observation is also necessary, ensuring patient safety and monitoring potential side effects.

What is a treatment like?

Patients are in a private room and many patients rest or listen to music or podcasts during the two hours they are being monitored. APC's RN, Bud Green, will check in several times to see how the patient is doing and monitor blood pressure. After two hours, patients are evaluated one more time and then discharged. Because of the sedating effects, patients need someone to give them a ride home afterwards.

Pros:

• One of the most effective treatments for depression that exists - 50% remission rate (depression resolved), 75% response rate (over 50% improvement)
• Independently effective and reducing suicidal thoughts, aside from its profound effect in treating depression
• Ketamine (although not spravato specifically) has been found to be very effective for treating not only depression, but also for anxiety disorders and PTSD
• Vast majority of side effects wash out completely within two hours and no significant side effects thereafter / No long-term side effects
• Covered by insurance

Cons:

• Maintenance treatment is required to maintain the benefit of the medication
• Cannot drive for rest of the day after a treatment

Spravato Service Locations

• 433 Metairie Road, Suite 520, Metairie, LA 70005
• 671 River Highlands Blvd, Suite 8, Covington, LA 70433