Comparing Depression Treatment Options at TRU Wellness
For individuals with treatment-resistant depression, finding the right therapy can feel like a daunting task. When traditional antidepressants don’t work, newer therapies like Spravato (esketamine) and ketamine infusion therapy offer hope. But how do these treatments compare, and which one is right for you?
At TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, Minnesota, we provide both options, giving patients access to innovative solutions for managing depression. This guide will help you understand the differences between Spravato and ketamine infusions, so you can make an informed decision about your mental health treatment.
What Is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?
Originally developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has gained recognition as a powerful antidepressant over the past decade. In 2000, researchers conducted the first randomized controlled trial demonstrating ketamine had rapid-acting, sustained benefits for patients with depression. Since then, numerous studies have confirmed ketamine can be a powerful depression treatment, including for those with treatment-resistant cases.
Ketamine differs from traditional antidepressants like SSRIs in its unique interaction with NMDA receptors in the brain. This interaction is believed to increase neuroplasticity and help patients “re-wire” negative thought patterns associated with depression.
Patients undergoing ketamine infusion therapy at TRU Wellness in Minnetonka will receive intravenous injections of ketamine for about 40 to 60 minutes. Health professionals will closely monitor patients to check their vital signs and ensure their safety.
Though ketamine infusion therapy is not FDA-approved specifically for depression, it is used off-label to treat the condition, as well as other mental health disorders. At TRU Wellness, we provide ketamine treatments for a variety of conditions where ketamine has proven to be effective, including anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and panic disorder.
What is Spravato?
Spravato is a nasal spray version of esketamine, one of the two mirror-image molecules that make up ketamine. It was developed by the pharmaceutical company J&J Innovative Medicine for treating depression.
Spravato has the same mechanism as ketamine but is more potent at NMDA receptors, which allows for smaller doses to be used. Like ketamine, it can provide rapid-acting relief with longer-lasting effects compared to conventional antidepressant treatment. The FDA has specifically approved Spravato to treat both TRD and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation.
Patients undergoing Spravato therapy at TRU Wellness will be administered Spravato intranasally under medical supervision, ensuring patient safety.
Comparing Spravato and Ketamine Infusion Therapy
When comparing Spravato to ketamine infusions, it’s important to understand how they differ in administration, effectiveness, and insurance coverage. Below is a breakdown of key factors to consider:
Administration
- Spravato is administered as a nasal spray in a clinical setting, while ketamine infusion therapy is delivered through an IV.
- Both treatments require patients to stay in the clinic for a short monitoring period.
- Spravato is generally considered less invasive than ketamine infusion therapy.
Dose
- Ketamine infusions are often provided at doses between 0.5-1mg/kg, whereas Spravato is provided at 84 mg.
- Doses of ketamine during infusion therapy tend to vary and be adjusted ongoingly according to a patient’s response. Spravato doses tend to be more controlled.
Dosing Schedule
- Ketamine infusion therapy is often provided twice a week for the initial phase. Patients then receive “booster infusions” during their maintenance phase, which will differ from patient to patient.
- Spravato is generally provided twice a week for the first month then once a week for the month after. After this point, the dosing frequency will be dependent on the patients’ response.
Effectiveness
- Both treatments provide rapid relief for patients with treatment-resistant depression, often showing results in a matter of hours or days.
Side Effects
- Both treatments can cause side effects such as dissociation, nausea, and dizziness. However, patients are monitored closely to ensure they respond well to the treatment.
- Some patients may prefer Spravato due to its FDA approval and nasal spray format, which can feel less invasive than an infusion.
Insurance Coverage
- Due to its FDA approval, Spravato is typically covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare.
- Ketamine infusion therapy is often not covered by insurance since it is considered off-label for depression, meaning patients may need to pay out-of-pocket.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Choosing between Spravato and ketamine infusion therapy depends on several factors, including your medical history, preferences, and insurance coverage. Here’s how to decide:
- Consider Spravato if:
- You prefer a non-invasive nasal spray.
- You want an FDA-approved treatment and one that is more likely to be covered by insurance.
- You meet the Spravato treatment criteria listed on the Spravato packaging.
- Consider Ketamine Infusion Therapy if:
- You are comfortable with IV infusions
- You are looking for an option with a broader range of off-label uses.
- You are willing to explore payment options outside of insurance.
At TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, we offer consultations to help determine which treatment is best for your unique situation. Our experienced providers will work with you to find a solution that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Why Choose TRU Wellness for Your Treatment in Minnetonka?
At TRU Wellness, we’re committed to offering cutting-edge solutions for mental health treatment. Whether you’re considering Spravato or ketamine infusions, our goal is to provide compassionate care in a supportive environment.
Why Patients Choose Us:
- Personalized treatment plans: Every patient’s journey is unique, and we tailor our treatments to your specific needs.
- Experienced providers: Our team is skilled in administering both Spravato and ketamine infusion therapy to ensure you receive the best possible care.
- Convenient location in Minnetonka: We proudly serve the Minnetonka community, offering easy access to advanced mental health treatments.
Depression Treatment at TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, MN
Both Spravato and ketamine infusion therapy offer promising solutions for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression. At TRU Wellness in Minnetonka, we provide both options to ensure our patients have access to the care that works best for them. Whether you’re seeking a non-invasive option like Spravato or prefer the broader applications of ketamine infusions, our team is here to help you navigate your choices and find relief.
FAQs about Spravato and Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Q: How long does it take to feel better with Spravato or ketamine infusions?
A: Many patients experience relief within hours or days of starting treatment, though individual responses may vary.
Q: Is Spravato covered by insurance in Minnesota?
A: Yes, Spravato is often covered by insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare in Minnesota. Contact us to verify your coverage.
Q: Can I switch from ketamine infusions to Spravato?
A: Yes, some patients transition from one treatment to another depending on their response. At TRU Wellness, our expert team will work with you closely to adjust your treatment according to your individual needs and treatment response.