What's The Difference Between Spravato And Ketamine?

You might have heard about SPRAVATO, the first breakthrough depression drug in over 20 years. Formulated solely for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), Spravato impacts certain neural pathways to boost mood regulation. Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, commonly confused with the anesthetic ketamine. The two medications are comparable, but there are some key differences between Spravato and ketamine.

What is Spravato (esketamine)?

Spravato is a trailblazing new drug that works differently than traditional antidepressants. The medication comes in the form of a self-administered nasal spray and helps the brain send messages more effectually. By stimulating particular receptors, you can better govern mood and lessen negative symptoms of depression. The effect on mood can be rapid, especially for those with Treatment-Resistant Depression.

The active pharmaceutical ingredient in Spravato is esketamine, a ketamine derivative. Despite the fact that ketamine and Spravato are similar from a chemical standpoint, they influence the body in different ways. Ketamine is an anesthetic, while esketamine acts on certain neural receptors to improve the brain’s plasticity. Because there is a chance of side effects like sedation, Spravato has to be administered under the supervision of a recognized healthcare provider, like The Counseling Center in Millbury.

Esketamine is recognized for its quick impact, with results frequently seen in as little as 1-2 days after the initial dose. Clinical studies demonstrate that the benefits of treatment are experienced at the conclusion of the 4-week induction period. Individuals taking Spravato have reported:

• Mood enhancement

• Enhanced productivity

• Heightened interest in social activities

Spravato does not replace your regular antidepressant medicine but is taken along with your oral antidepressant.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a substance often utilized as a short-duration anesthetic and taken intravenously. The FDA has never approved ketamine as a depression treatment. Ketamine also makes the news as a "club drug" that has become popular among young adults and teenagers. Taken as a liquid or powder, ketamine can give users a sense of euphoria and dissociation from reality. To lean more about ketamine addiction, please contact us at 508-433-3866.

What Is The Difference Between Spravato and Ketamine?

Frequently Asked Questions About Spravato vs. Ketamine

Will Spravato reduce pain like ketamine?

Spravato is not authorized to treat pain, and pain alleviation hasn’t been seen as a side effect. Ketamine is administered as a surgical and veterinary anesthetic.

Can I take Spravato independently?

Presently, Spravato is only obtainable through authorized healthcare specialists in light of dissociation and sedation side effects and the potential for improper use and abuse.

What is Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)?

Spravato is only authorized for those with Treatment-Resistant Depression. You may have TRD if:

• You've been treated for a severe depressive disorder
• You’ve tried no less than two antidepressant medications
• You have not been receptive to treatment

Millions of individuals around the world are diagnosed with a major depressive disorder, and around 30% of those are challenged with TRD.

What is Spravato treatment like?

First and foremost, if you think Spravato might benefit you, you require a clinical assessment to figure out if the treatment is . In every setting, you'll have your vital signs examined and administer the nasal spray yourself. Each Spravato session can take up to two hours so healthcare providers can monitor for side effects. A quick assessment is performed at the close of each appointment to see how you’re progressing. For safety reasons, the drug can only be administered via a REMS-certified Spravato Treatment Center like The Counseling Center in Millbury. It is also advised that you attend therapy frequently while on Spravato.

Want More Information About Spravato?

Consult with the Counseling Center to find out if Spravato is appropriate for you. Chat with a trained professional by dialing 508-433-3866 or submitting the following form. We're here for you 24 hours a day, every day of the week.