If you or a loved one is considering Spravato treatment for mental health, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what to expect during a treatment session. Spravato, also known as esketamine, is a nasal spray medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults who have not responded well to other treatments.
This innovative medication works by targeting certain receptors in the brain to help alleviate symptoms of depression.
Understanding Spravato: An Overview
What Is Spravato?
In order to fully grasp what a Spravato treatment session entails, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of how the medication works. Spravato is a derivative of ketamine, a well-known anesthetic agent. However, unlike ketamine, Spravato is administered through the nasal route under the supervision of a healthcare provider. This nasal spray formulation allows for precise dosing and reduces the potential for abuse.
While the exact mechanism of action of Spravato is not fully understood, it is thought to work by targeting the glutamate system in the brain. Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood regulation. By modulating the glutamate system, Spravato may help alleviate symptoms of depression.
It is key to note that Spravato treatment is not a standalone therapy. It is typically used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan developed by a healthcare provider.
The Science Behind Spravato
Before delving into the specifics of a Spravato treatment session, it’s worth understanding the scientific basis for its use. The glutamate hypothesis of depression suggests that abnormalities in the glutamate system may contribute to the development and persistence of depressive symptoms. This hypothesis has led researchers to explore novel treatments that target the glutamate system, such as Spravato.
Studies have shown that Spravato has rapid-acting antidepressant effects, with noticeable improvements in symptoms within hours to days. Even so, the precise mechanism by which Spravato exerts its therapeutic effects is still being investigated, and research in this area is ongoing.
The Role of Spravato in Mental Health Treatment
Spravato is primarily used in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults who have not adequately responded to at least two prior antidepressant treatments. It is intended for individuals who have experienced persistent symptoms of depression despite trying other treatment options.
It’s important to understand that Spravato is not a first-line treatment for depression. It is reserved for individuals who have not responded well to other interventions. Your healthcare provider will carefully assess your medical history and treatment response before determining if Spravato is an appropriate option for you.
Preparing for Your First Spravato Session
What to Expect During Consultation
Before starting Spravato treatment, you will have an initial consultation with your healthcare provider. This consultation serves several purposes, including assessing your eligibility for Spravato treatment, discussing potential risks and benefits, and addressing any concerns or questions you may have.
During the consultation, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, including any previous treatments for depression or other mental health conditions. They may also conduct a physical examination and order laboratory tests to ensure that you meet the criteria for Spravato treatment.
This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and clarify any uncertainties you may have about the treatment process. It’s critical to openly communicate with your healthcare provider to ensure that you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about Spravato treatment.
Necessary Pre-Treatment Steps
Prior to your first Spravato session, there are some important steps that you will need to take to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. These steps may vary depending on your specific situation and the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
One crucial aspect of preparing for Spravato treatment is refraining from eating or drinking for at least two hours before the session. This is to minimize the risk of adverse events, such as nausea or vomiting, that may occur shortly after administration of the medication. Your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions regarding fasting requirements and any other necessary preparations.
In addition, it is essential to arrange for transportation to and from the treatment facility on the day of your Spravato session. Due to the potential side effects of the medication, it is not safe to drive or operate machinery immediately after the treatment.
The Spravato Treatment Process
The Role of the Healthcare Provider
During a Spravato treatment session, you will be under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider. This may be a psychiatrist, nurse, or other qualified professional with experience in administering Spravato. The role of the healthcare provider is to ensure your safety throughout the treatment and monitor your response to the medication.
Before administering Spravato, your healthcare provider will assess your vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate. This is to establish a baseline for comparison and monitor any potential changes that may occur during the session.
Your healthcare provider will also carefully measure and administer the appropriate dose of Spravato nasal spray. The dosage will be determined based on several factors, including your weight, medical history, and treatment response.
The Treatment Environment
A Spravato treatment session typically takes place in a controlled and supervised environment, such as a healthcare clinic or treatment center. The treatment area is designed to provide a calm and comfortable setting, conducive to relaxation and reflection. During the session, you will be placed in a private room or a designated area where you can recline comfortably. This is to ensure that you are in a safe and secure position during the treatment.
The treatment environment may include soothing elements, such as soft lighting, pleasant aromas, and calming music, to enhance your overall experience. These elements are intended to promote a sense of tranquility and help you feel more at ease.
The Duration and Frequency of Sessions
A Spravato treatment session typically lasts for approximately two hours, including the administration of the medication and the post-treatment observation period. The duration may vary slightly depending on individual factors, such as your response to the medication and any specific requirements set by your healthcare provider.
Initially, you will likely undergo a series of Spravato sessions over a few weeks. The frequency of sessions will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your treatment response and individual needs. After the initial treatment phase, the frequency of Spravato sessions may be adjusted, often tapering to a maintenance schedule, where sessions are less frequent but still necessary to sustain the therapeutic effects.
Post-Treatment: What Happens After a Spravato Session?
Immediate After-Effects of Spravato
After a Spravato session, you will remain under observation for a period of time to monitor your vital signs and ensure that you are recovering well from the treatment. The exact duration of the observation period may vary depending on individual factors and the guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
It is common to experience some side effects after a Spravato session. These can include dizziness, disorientation, nausea, and increased blood pressure. These side effects are typically transient and resolve within a short period of time.
Your healthcare provider will closely monitor your immediate post-treatment experience and address any concerns or discomfort you may have. It’s important to remember that you are in a safe and supportive environment, where your well-being is the primary focus.
Long-Term Results and Follow-Up Care
The ultimate goal of Spravato treatment is to help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve your overall well-being. While individual responses may vary, many individuals report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms after undergoing a series of Spravato sessions.
It’s important to recognize that Spravato treatment is not a complete cure for depression. It is a valuable tool that can help manage symptoms and support overall mental health. Long-term results and sustained improvement often require ongoing follow-up care, including continued therapy and medication management.
Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress, adjust treatment as necessary, and provide ongoing support.
Addressing Common Concerns About Spravato Treatment
Dealing with Potential Side Effects
As with any medication, Spravato may cause side effects. It’s important to remember that the incidence and severity of side effects can vary among individuals. Most side effects associated with Spravato are mild to moderate and resolve on their own. These side effects often occur shortly after administration of the medication and subside within a few hours.
Common side effects may include dizziness, sedation, disorientation, increased blood pressure, and nausea. Your healthcare provider will closely monitor your response to the medication and provide guidance on managing any side effects that may arise.
Understanding the Risks and Benefits
Like any treatment, Spravato has its own set of risks and benefits. It is essential to weigh these carefully with the guidance of your healthcare provider. While Spravato has shown promising results in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Some potential risks of Spravato treatment include the potential for abuse or misuse, the occurrence of dissociation during treatment sessions, and the possibility of increased blood pressure. Your healthcare provider will thoroughly assess your medical history and discuss these potential risks with you to help you make an informed decision.
On the other hand, the benefits of Spravato treatment can be significant for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments. Improved mood, enhanced quality of life, and a reduction in depressive symptoms are among the potential benefits that many individuals experience with Spravato.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spravato Treatment
- Who is eligible for Spravato treatment?
- How long does it take for Spravato to start working?
- How often will I need to undergo Spravato treatment?
- What can I do to prepare for a Spravato session?
- Can I drive myself home after a Spravato session?
It’s important to thoroughly discuss these questions and any others you may have with your healthcare provider. They will provide you with personalized answers and ensure that you have the information you need to make an informed decision.
In Conclusion
A Spravato treatment session involves careful preparation, direct supervision by a healthcare provider, and a treatment environment designed to promote relaxation and safety. While Spravato treatment is not a standalone solution for depression, it can be a valuable adjunctive therapy for individuals who have not adequately responded to other treatments.
By understanding what to expect in a Spravato treatment session and addressing any concerns you may have, you can make an informed decision about pursuing this innovative treatment option for mental health. To learn if Spravato is right for you, contact Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine today to schedule a mental health consultation.