Living with treatment-resistant depression can leave individuals feeling hopeless. When traditional medications fail to provide relief, innovative options like Spravato (esketamine) offer a new approach to mental health care. At TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, Minnesota, we offer Spravato as an advanced treatment for patients struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to traditional therapies. In this article, we’ll explore how Spravato works and how it can help you find relief.
What Is Spravato (Esketamine)?
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a major public health challenge. Standard antidepressant treatments, such as SSRIs or SNRIs, don’t work for around 30% of those with depression. This can leave people feeling hopeless and increase the risk of worsening mental health, including suicide. Public data shows that 30% of those with TRD attempt suicide at least once in their lifetime.
Spravato shows promise for people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Unlike traditional antidepressants, it works through a different mechanism and has shown significant benefits for individuals who haven’t responded to conventional medications.
Spravato is a nasal spray form of esketamine, which is derived from the dissociative anesthetic ketamine. Unlike traditional antidepressants, ketamine targets NMDA receptors in the brain, which is believed to boost neuroplasticity and help “rewire” unhealthy thought patterns.
Spravato was developed by the pharmaceutical company Janssen Pharmaceutical (of Johnson & Johnson) in 2010. It is administered as a nasal spray and requires lower doses compared to ketamine because it has stronger effects on NMDA receptors. While ketamine is only licensed for anesthesia, Spravato has been approved by the FDA for TRD as well as major depression with suicidal ideation.
In 2019, Janssen Research and Development conducted a Phase 3 study investigating the effectiveness of Spravato plus antidepressants for those with TRD. Spravato-treated patients showed a more significant reduction in depressive symptoms than the placebo group.
Here at TRU Wellness, we offer a range of treatments for those struggling with mental health issues, including Spravato for TRD. Our Spravato clients often report significant improvements in mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life after starting treatment.
How Does Spravato Work at TRU Wellness in Minnetonka?
If you’re struggling with TRD in Minnesota, our TRU Wellness clinic in Minnetonka can provide a potentially life-changing treatment plan. This could involve Spravato.
Our process follows these simple steps:
- Phone Intake: Our client experience coordinator will review your medical background and explain our process over the phone.
- Initial Evaluation: You’ll have two telehealth appointments: one with a mental health provider to assess your psychological and social history, and another with a medical professional to review your medical history and explain the Spravato treatment process.
- Administration: If cleared, you’ll undergo a series of Spravato treatments, with the number of sessions based on your needs and response. During sessions, you’ll self-administer the nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
- Continuous monitoring and support: Our team will monitor your progress closely, adjusting the treatment plan as needed to optimize outcomes and ensure sustained improvement in depressive symptoms.
You can learn more about what to expect during your Spravato treatments by visiting this page.
What Are the Benefits of Spravato for Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Spravato offers several benefits for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression:
- Rapid Relief: Many patients experience symptom improvement within hours to days, unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks.
- FDA-Approved: Spravato is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression, providing a safe and regulated option for patients.
- Supervised Treatment: The treatment is administered in a clinical setting, ensuring your safety throughout the process.
- Reduced suicidal ideation: For individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts, Spravato offers a critical lifeline by quickly alleviating these dangerous symptoms.
- Improved mood and functioning: Clients often report significant enhancements in mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life after starting Spravato treatment.
- Minimal downtime: The administration process is straightforward and typically requires only two hours per session, allowing clients to return to their daily activities promptly.
How to Know If Spravato Is Right for You
While Spravato has helped many patients, it’s important to determine if it’s the right treatment for you. TRU Wellness in Minnetonka offers consultations to assess whether you’re a good candidate. You may benefit from Spravato if:
- You have tried at least two antidepressants without success.
- You have a diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression.
- You are seeking a treatment that offers faster relief than traditional medications.
- You are experiencing suicidal ideation.
There are also instances where Spravato will be unsuitable due to the drug’s physical and psychological side effects. Our providers will work closely with you to determine whether Spravato is right for you and offer alternative therapy options if needed.
Is Spravato Covered by Insurance in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover Spravato for patients with treatment-resistant depression. However, coverage details can vary based on individual plans. At TRU Wellness, we assist patients in verifying their insurance benefits before starting treatment.
FAQs about Spravato Treatment at TRU Wellness
- Q: How quickly does Spravato work?
A: Many patients feel relief within hours to days, though individual results may vary. - Q: Is Spravato safe?
A: Yes, Spravato is FDA-approved and has been proven safe when administered under medical supervision. - Q: How often will I need Spravato treatments?
A: Typically, Spravato is administered once or twice a week during the induction phase and once a week during the maintenance phase. However, administration will vary depending on your treatment plan.
Consider Spravato Treatment at TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, MN
If you’ve struggled with depression that hasn’t responded to other treatments, Spravato at TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, Minnesota, could offer the relief you’ve been seeking. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you find the best path forward. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
Take the next step in your mental health journey with TRU Wellness —find out if Spravato is right for you by giving us a call and getting in touch with a team member today.
Sources: