In addition to traditional ketamine treatments given by injection, orally, or infusion, there’s a different form of ketamine called esketamine (brand name Spravato) which may be inhaled nasally.
Esketamine is intended for administration by the patient under the direct supervision of a healthcare professional. This form of ketamine has been approved by the FDA in the US specifically for use with treatment resistant depression. Spravato is typically prescribed in conjunction with other anti-depressants.
The main benefit of Spravato (esketamine) which makes it a preferable option is the rapidity of its effectiveness. For someone struggling with treatment-resistant depression or thoughts of suicide, the quick response is a major benefit to this form of treatment.
Esketamine reaches peak concentrations in the body in between 20 and 40 minutes. It works much more rapidly than traditional antidepressants and is preferred for use in someone experiencing an acute major depressive episode or thoughts of self harm
Depending on the dose established by your practitioner, you will be administering puffs to each nostril from one or more dispensers.
Using 2 devices (for a 56 mg dose) or 3 devices (for an 84 mg dose), you’ll administer the medication under supervision, then take a 5-minute rest between use of each device to allow medication to be absorbed. After five minutes, you will be ready for your second puff, if you need one.
Esketamine can cause excess sedation (tired feeling) after treatment, so it’s generally required that patients remain in the clinic for at least 2 hours until it’s determined that it’s safe for you to leave. You’ll need to have someone help you get home.
Doses typically begin at twice a week for the first 8 doses. After the first moth, you’ll have an evaluation to see how your symptoms are responding, to determine whether continuing treatment is appropriate for you.
After this time it is possible your doctor will recommend that your therapy and esketamine treatment continue at adjusted dosages, or adjust your treatment in other ways.
excess sedation (tired feeling) after treatment, so it’s generally required that patients remain in the clinic for at least 2 hours until it’s determined that it’s safe for you to leave. You’ll need to have someone help you get home.
There is a risk for abuse and dependence with prolonged esketamine treatment. Your health care provider will evaluate your history and condition to establish whether esketamine is an appropriate option for you.
SPRAVATO has been FDA-approved for certain conditions, so there’s an excellent chance that if you qualify as a candidate, your insurance will cover Spravato.
All policies are different, though, so be sure you discuss your coverage with your provider. We can help you to determine whether your coverage will extend to treatment with Spravato
PMC Psychedelic is a leading provider of innovative and effective treatments for mental health conditions. Our clinic in New York offers a range of cutting-edge therapies, including ketamine infusion therapy, TMS, and med management. We also offer telehealth services for patients who cannot travel to our clinic. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you overcome your mental health challenges and regain your quality of life.
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