How SPRAVATO® Works

SPRAVATO® is an FDA-approved medication to alleviate symptoms of treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation. It is also rapid-acting, sometimes in a matter of hours or days, while typical antidepressants may take several weeks to begin to be of benefit. Let’s understand how SPRAVATO® works and why it is so effective.

What Is SPRAVATO®?

SPRAVATO® is administered as a nasal spray in the clinic setting and is always used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant to augment its effectiveness. It was approved in adults with TRD and MDD with suicidal ideation and is indicated when other treatments have failed.

This therapy acts on special subtypes of glutamate receptors, such as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in the brain. This action amplifies the communication between the brain cells and rebalances neural pathways in a depressed state.

How Is SPRAVATO® Administered?

SPRAVATO® must be administered in a certified health setting because of its safety and effectiveness. The process for a typical session is as follows:

• Preparation: Your provider will ensure you’re comfortable and ready before starting the session.
• Administration: You will receive the nasal spray under guidance. The medication is absorbed through the nasal passages for rapid action.
• Observation: You will remain at our facility for at least two hours after administration. During this time, we will monitor you for side effects to ensure stability before leaving.
• Treatment Schedule: These are usually twice a week for the first four weeks, with a decrease in frequency when symptoms improve.

How Does SPRAVATO® Work in the Brain?

Unlike the traditional antidepressants that work by increasing serotonin levels, SPRAVATO® acts primarily in the glutamate system of the brain. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, and mood regulation. It works by enhancing the function of glutamate, which allows healing and restoration of broken neural pathways, in turn responsible for the symptoms of depression. This new mechanism of action brings faster and especially effective symptomatic relief for patients presenting with severe depressive episodes or crisis conditions.

What Is the Benefit of SPRAVATO®?

SPRAVATO® has a number of advantages for both TRD and MDD patients in the following respects:

• Rapid Relief of Symptoms: Many patients experience symptom improvement within hours or days.
• Improved Daily Functioning: When the symptoms of depression decrease, then patients can actively participate in daily routine activities.
• Complementary Approach: SPRAVATO® is used in combination with oral antidepressants, for an overall better outcome.
• Monitored Care: Treatment is safe and supportive because of the structured and guided process.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

SPRAVATO® is generally well-tolerated; however, some patients taking it may experience some of the following transient adverse effects:

• Dizziness or nausea
• Increased blood pressure
• Dissociation or disconnection from realities
• Mild headache

These side effects usually do not persist long after the period of drug administration, and your provider can elaborate on all possible risks during the consultation.

Who Benefits the Most From SPRAVATO®?

SPRAVATO® can be indicated for:

• Patients who found a lack of improvement with at least two other antidepressant treatments.
• Patients who are diagnosed with MDD and presenting active suicidal ideation.
• Patients who urgently require symptomatic palliation of intractable symptoms.

You should not use SPRAVATO® if you have several medical conditions, a history of substance abuse, are pregnant, or lactating.

Call The Prestige Clinic and Learn How SPRAVATO® Works

Interested in how SPRAVATO® works, or wondering whether SPRAVATO® the right treatment option for you? Our mental health professionals will walk you through the process. Call now for a consultation, go over options, and begin your journey to a healthy and happy tomorrow with this progressive therapy.