Living with a major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety disorders may be challenging. Often, it takes time and several different approaches to find a treatment plan that works well and doesn’t cause negative side effects. You may feel a lack of control over your feelings, and it negatively impacts your daily life. You don’t have to suffer in silence. You are not alone. My TMS Therapy is here to help you.
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) can have from mild to severe symptoms and may require different approaches to identify what helps. If you’ve been prescribed antidepressants, tried psychotherapy (counseling) and your depression symptoms stayed persistent, you might want to consider SPRAVATO® (Esketamine) or Ketamine for depression treatment.
At My TMS Therapy, SPRAVATO® (Esketamine) is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare, because it is FDA approved and well-studied and to be effective, and safe. To be considered eligible, a patient must have tried two or more other antidepressants without benefit.
What is the Difference Between SPRAVATO® and Ketamine Infusion?
What is SPRAVATO®?
On March 5, 2019, FDA approved SPRAVATO® nasal spray to treat adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). Esketamine is sprayed into the nostril and absorbed into the nasal passage. SPRAVATO® produces fast and effective results in a reduction of depression symptoms.
SPRAVATO® spray contains esketamine, a variant of the anesthetic ketamine. Professionals note that esketamine targets the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and increases levels of glutamate, the brain’s most chemical message carrier.
SPRAVATO® Treatment Process:
SPRAVATO® is self-administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider at one of the My TMS Therapy clinics in South Florida. It is administered in a pleasant and relaxing healthcare setting over five to ten minutes in two to three successive intranasal sprays.
A healthcare provider will assess your blood pressure before and after SPRAVATO® is administered. You will be under observation period for 60-120 minutes. During the observation, you will rest comfortably in a dedicated area where our professional staff will monitor you for any side effects.
Prior to arriving at your SPRAVATO® treatment appointments, please plan your rides home. Due to potential side effects that may alter motor coordination and mental alertness, you will be prohibited from driving. In order to make your SPRAVATO® treatment more enjoyable, feel free to bring personal items such as headphones, a tablet, or a blanket to help you relax.
SPRAVATO® is a safe, FDA-approved, and effective prescription nasal spray (taken along with an oral antidepressant), for treatment-resistant depression in adults. At My TMS Therapy clinics, you can begin your healing journey. Contact us today.
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine therapy is an intravenous infusion directly into the bloodstream. Ketamine was mainly used as an anesthetic drug. Low doses of ketamine have been successfully used for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). It is administered through an IV and 100% of the dose that is given will reach the brain therefore the results are more effective. If a patient responds to ketamine therapy, it can significantly relieve serious symptoms of depression and even reduce suicidality. However, it is not yet FDA-approved and is considered an experimental treatment.
Ketamine infusions may provide relief from mental health issues for patients that have not responded to traditional treatment options. Ketamine is administered by a licensed medical professional. Ketamine infusions have been used for depression, anxiety, PTSD, certain types of neuropathic chronic pain, and now even for migraine.
In order to qualify for treatment, a patient must answer a questionnaire and provide medical history. Examples of contra-indicators that preclude you from being a good candidate for Ketamine infusions:
- High blood pressure
- Schizophrenia
- Liver problems
- Hepatitis
Ketamine is not suitable for people with a history of substance use disorder. Please consult your primary healthcare provider prior to considering Ketamine treatment.
Ketamine therapy may be administered over the course of two or three weeks. Your licensed provider might assign 6 sessions or more. Occasional booster infusions may be administered as needed if the treatment is not delivering desired results.
Ketamine infusion side effects may include:
- Dissociative effects
- Addictive properties
- Temporary hallucinations
- Fuzzy vision
- Dizziness
- Floating sensations
Ketamine infusions usually take place in a comfortable setting, in a reclining chair, and in dim lighting (to reduce sensory stimulation). Patients may be pre-treated with a powerful anti-nausea drug, such as Zofran.
During the treatment, Ketamine is known to modulate glutamate receptors in your brain, which is involved in the signal processing of brain chemistry. Both Ketamine and SPRAVATO®, can significantly improve mood quickly.
Consult with your healthcare provider to see if SPRAVATO® is right for you. You should not take SPRAVATO® if you have a ketamine or esketamine allergy, blood vessel disease or connection abnormality or a history of brain hemorrhages. Discuss alcohol or prescription drug abuse with your doctor before taking SPRAVATO®.
Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant should not take SPRAVATO®. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant during the treatment period.
Make an Appointment
SPRAVATO® (esketamine) CIII nasal spray has made a significant difference in patients’ lives, and it may help you find the relief you need. We encourage you to request an appointment to speak with the medical professionals at My TMS Therapy about SPRAVATO® as a remedy for your treatment-resistant depression.