Spravato™ Nasal Spray
Introducing an Effective Alternative to Ketamine IV Injections
What is Spravato?
Spravato is a prescription nasal spray of esketamine, a drug used as a general anesthetic and also effectively for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with suicidal thoughts. Spravato is a self-administered nasal spray, normally under the supervision of a healthcare provider in a healthcare setting. While initially developed due to the positive results of ketamine injections, Spravato is considered an alternative due to its ingredients and the way it is administered to patients.
How is Spravato Administered?
Spravato is self-administered as two to three sprays in five-minute increments and is a good alternative for patients who would prefer to avoid an IV or who have anxiety surrounding IV needles. It must be administered in combination with an oral antidepressant. The patient’s healthcare provider will determine exactly how much Spravato the patient will take and when they will administer it.
Depending on how long a healthcare provider recommends for the patient to take the drug, here is a typical prescription schedule:
Weeks 1 to 4: Spravato is administered twice a week, eight times in total.
Weeks 5 to 8: One treatment weekly
Week 9 and after: Every 2 weeks or as needed, depending on the patient’s response.
Spravato Esketamine Treatments as An Alternative Treatment for MDD
In 2019, the Esketamine nasal spray Spravato was approved by the FDA for the treatment of MDD that is treatment resistant or includes suicidal thoughts. With its approval, patients now have the choice between Ketamine IV infusions or esketamine treatments in the form of a nasal spray for MDD.
Discover the differences and value of both Ketamine infusions and Spravato nasal spray here.
Clinical trials reveal that Spravato can have a positive effect on depressive symptoms by lowering the frequency of suicidal thoughts, and also by strengthening or repairing damaged or weakened neurotransmitters that can cause depression in the first place – thereby potentially helping develop new cell connections in the brain.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Spravato?
The most commonly seen side effects of Spravato are:
- Dissociation
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sedation
- Spinning sensation
- Reduced sense of touch and sensation
- Anxiety
- Lack of energy
- Increased blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Feeling drunk/inebriated
More serious side effects Spravato include:
- Increased blood pressure
- Problems with thinking clearly
- Bladder problems
Please note: Spravato esketamine treatments cannot be used for pain relief or any other diagnosis and may not be prescribed to minors.
Click here for more Spravato frequently asked questions and answers (FAQs).
Contact New Pathways Clinic in Cleveland to Get Started with Spravato Esketamine Nasal Spray
At New Pathways Clinic, we are always sensitive to each patient’s unique history and needs. We will never make you feel uncomfortable or unwelcome in our care. Reach out to us today to find out if Spravato Nasal Spray is the right option for you. We look forward to being of assistance!