What's The Difference Between Spravato And Ketamine?

You may have heard about SPRAVATO, the first breakthrough depression drug in over 20 years. Formulated solely for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), Spravato acts on specific neural pathways to improve mood regulation. Spravato is the name brand for esketamine, frequently mixed up with the anesthetic ketamine. The two medications are similar, though there are several key differences between Spravato and ketamine.

What is Spravato (esketamine)?

Spravato is a trailblazing new medication that works in a different fashion than conventional antidepressants. The medication comes in the form of a self-administered nasal spray and assists the brain in delivering messages more effectively. By engaging particular receptors, you can regulate mood better and reduce negative symptoms of depression. The effect on mood may be rapid, especially for those suffering from Treatment-Resistant Depression.

The active agent in Spravato is esketamine, a ketamine derivative. Even though Spravato and ketamine are similar chemically, they affect the body in different manners. Ketamine is an anesthetic, while esketamine targets different neural receptors to boost the brain’s plasticity. Since there is a possibility of side effects like sedation, Spravato is always taken under the direction of a registered healthcare provider, like The Counseling Center in Freehold.

Esketamine is noted for its rapid impact, with results frequently seen as soon as 1-2 days following the initial dose. Clinical studies indicate that the benefits of treatment are experienced at the conclusion of the 4-week induction period. Patients taking Spravato have noticed:

• Mood regulation

• Improved productivity

• More interest in social activities

Spravato is not intended to take the place of your prescribed antidepressant but is used along with your oral antidepressant.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a substance often utilized as a limited-duration anesthetic and administered intravenously. The FDA has never authorized ketamine as a depression treatment. Ketamine also has emerged as a "club drug" that has increased in popularity among young adults and teenagers. Ingested in liquid or powder form, ketamine can give individuals sensations of euphoria and dissociation. To lean more about ketamine addiction, please contact us at 732-515-4187.

What Is The Difference Between Spravato and Ketamine?

Common Questions About Spravato vs. Ketamine

Will Spravato nasal spray ease pain like ketamine?

Spravato is not authorized to address pain, and pain relief hasn’t been observed as a side effect. Ketamine is utilized as a veterinary and surgical anesthetic.

Can I take Spravato without supervision?

Currently, Spravato is only obtainable through approved healthcare specialists due to sedation and dissociation side effects and the potential for abuse and misuse.

What is Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)?

Spravato is only approved for people with Treatment-Resistant Depression. You might have TRD if:

• You've received treatment for a severe depressive disorder
• You’ve used at least two antidepressant treatments
• You haven’t been receptive to treatment

Millions of individuals worldwide are treated for a major depressive disorder, and around 30% of those struggle daily with TRD.

What is Spravato treatment like?

First, if you have interest in Spravato, you must have a clinical assessment to see if the medicine is suitable. During every setting, you'll get your vitals taken and take the nasal spray yourself. Every Spravato appointment can last as long as two hours so healthcare providers can observe you for side effects. A quick evaluation is done at the end of every appointment to log your progress. Due to safety concerns, the drug can only be administered at a REMS-certified Spravato Treatment Center like The Counseling Center in Freehold. It is also advised that you participate in therapy consistently while taking Spravato.

Want To Know More About Spravato?

Consult with the Counseling Center to determine if Spravato is right for you. Speak with an expert by dialing 732-515-4187 or completing the form below. We're ready for you 24/7, each day of the week.