Depression can be a persistent condition, and for some, standard treatments do not provide adequate relief. When at least two different antidepressant medications fail to improve symptoms, a person may be diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This condition requires a different approach to care, and one such option is Spravato. Here is more information on treatment-resistant depression, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options:
What Is Treatment-resistant Depression?
Treatment-resistant depression is a clinical term for major depressive disorder that does not respond to at least two different antidepressant treatments. Individuals with TRD continue to experience symptoms of depression despite trying various medications, and this can be a challenging experience. Recognizing TRD involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider, who will review a patient’s treatment history and symptom patterns. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the provider can discuss options, such as Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray.
What Causes It?
The exact causes of treatment-resistant depression are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development. A combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors can play a role, and these elements make an individual’s depression less responsive to standard treatments. For some, the way their body metabolizes medication reduces its effectiveness.
Another contributing factor may be the presence of co-occurring medical or psychiatric conditions, and these can complicate the treatment of depression. Chronic stress and trauma can also alter brain chemistry, making it harder for antidepressants to work as intended. A comprehensive assessment helps identify these underlying factors, allowing for a more effective treatment plan.
What Is Spravato?
Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, a prescription nasal spray used to treat adults with TRD. It is administered in a certified healthcare setting where a medical professional can monitor patients. The treatment is intended for individuals who have tried other antidepressant medications without success, so it offers an alternative for managing persistent depressive symptoms. Because it is a form of ketamine, it is a controlled substance with a specific administration protocol.
How Does It Work?
Spravato works differently from most oral antidepressants, and its mechanism targets the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in the brain. This action helps restore synaptic connections between brain cells in people with major depressive disorder. Standard antidepressants primarily focus on increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
By acting on a different pathway, Spravato can offer relief for individuals whose depression has not responded to other treatments. The patient self-administers the dose in a clinical setting, and they will be monitored after administration. Treatment sessions may be scheduled twice a week and adjusted based on the response.
What Are the Benefits?
The primary benefit of this treatment is its potential to reduce depressive symptoms in adults with treatment-resistant depression. Patients may experience a substantial reduction in symptoms following treatment, leading to an improvement in mood and overall functioning. Another benefit is its rapid onset of action for some patients, and this can be particularly helpful for those experiencing severe depressive symptoms. The structured, supervised administration also provides a supportive and safe environment during treatment.
Find Relief Today
Living with treatment-resistant depression may be challenging, but there are specialized treatments available that can help. Spravato offers a distinct approach for managing symptoms when other medications have been ineffective, and it works by targeting a specific pathway in the brain. If you have not found relief with standard antidepressants, discussing this option with a healthcare provider may be beneficial.
