What's The Difference Between Spravato And Ketamine?

You may have heard of SPRAVATO, the first breakthrough depression medication in over 20 years. Made exclusively for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), Spravato targets certain neural pathways to improve mood regulation. Spravato is the trade name for esketamine, often confused with ketamine, an anesthetic. The two medicines are related, but there are several major differences between Spravato and ketamine.

What is Spravato (esketamine)?

Spravato is a groundbreaking new medicine that works differently than traditional antidepressants. The medication comes in the form of a self-administered nasal spray and aids the brain in transmitting messages more productively. By engaging particular receptors, you can regulate mood better and decrease adverse depression symptoms. The influence on mood can be rapid, particularly for people who suffer from Treatment-Resistant Depression.

The active pharmaceutical ingredient in Spravato is esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Even though ketamine and Spravato are chemically similar, they influence the body in different ways. Ketamine is used as an anesthetic, while esketamine targets certain neural receptors to enhance neuroplasticity. Because of potential side effects like sedation, Spravato has to be given under the guidance of credentialed healthcare professionals, like the ones at The Counseling Center in Toms River.

Esketamine is noted for its quick impact, with results commonly noticed as soon as 1-2 days past the initial dose. Clinical studies indicate that treatment benefits are realized at the conclusion of the induction period (4 weeks). Patients using Spravato have enjoyed:

• Mood improvement

• Enhanced productivity

• More interest in social activities

Spravato does not take the place of your regular antidepressant medicine but is used with your oral antidepressant.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a drug typically utilized as a limited-duration anesthetic and taken intravenously. The FDA has not approved ketamine as a depression treatment. Ketamine also has emerged as a "club drug" that has become popular among young adults and teenagers. Consumed in liquid or powder form, ketamine can produce a sense of euphoria and dissociation. For more information on ketamine addiction, please reach out to us at 732-605-6364.

What Is The Difference Between Spravato and Ketamine?

Common Questions Regarding Spravato vs. Ketamine

Will Spravato nasal spray alleviate pain like ketamine does?

Spravato is not authorized to treat pain, and pain relief is not one of the drug's side effects. Ketamine is used as a veterinary and surgical anesthetic.

Can I use Spravato without supervision?

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

What is Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)?

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

• You've been diagnosed with a severe depressive disorder
• You’ve taken a minimum of two antidepressant treatments
• You haven’t responded to treatment

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

What is Spravato treatment like?

First and foremost, if you think Spravato might benefit you, you must have a clinical assessment to determine if the medication is suitable. At each appointment, you'll get your vital signs examined and self-administer the nasal spray treatment. Every Spravato appointment can last as long as two hours so medical staff can observe you for side effects. A quick evaluation is done at the close of each appointment to see how you’re progressing. Because of safety questions, the drug can only be administered via a REMS-certified Spravato Treatment Center like The Counseling Center in Toms River. It is also recommended that you participate in therapy regularly while using Spravato.

Want To Know More About Spravato?

Reach out to the Counseling Center to determine if Spravato is right for you. Chat with an expert by calling 732-605-6364 or completing the form below. We're here for you 24/7, each day of the week.