What Is Spravato?
Spravato (esketamine) is a prescription Medication used to treat Treatment-resistant Depression in adults, meaning depression that has not responded to at least two different types of antidepressants. It is an FDA-approved nasal spray that is designed to help improve mood and relieve symptoms of depression in patients who have not found success with other treatments. Spravato works by targeting and stimulating the brain's glutamate system, which is different from how traditional antidepressants work by targeting serotonin and norepinephrine. This unique mechanism of action makes Spravato an option for individuals who have not found relief from their depression with standard medications.
Spravato is typically administered in a Healthcare setting under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to the potential for side effects such as dissociation, sedation, and increased blood pressure. Before using Spravato, patients are carefully screened for conditions such as Cardiovascular Disease, as it can have effects on blood pressure.
The treatment is generally used in combination with an Oral antidepressant and is part of a broader therapeutic approach to managing depression. Due to its potential for abuse, Spravato is classified as a controlled substance and is prescribed and administered under strict medical supervision.
