How Spravato (Esketamine) Works: A New Hope for Depression at Sturges Family Practice
Depression is a serious and widespread mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While traditional antidepressants work for many, some individuals struggle with persistent symptoms despite trying multiple treatments. At Sturges Family Practice in Coeur d'Alene, we are committed to offering the most advanced and effective treatments for mental health, including Spravato (esketamine), an innovative therapy designed to help individuals with treatment-resistant depression.
Understanding Treatment-Resistant Depression
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is diagnosed when an individual has not found relief from depressive symptoms after trying at least two different antidepressant medications at appropriate doses and durations. Living with TRD can be incredibly challenging, affecting not only emotional well-being but also physical health, relationships, and daily functioning.
At Sturges Family Practice, we understand the frustration that comes with battling depression, and we are proud to offer Spravato as a potential solution for those who have not responded to traditional treatments.
What Is Spravato (Esketamine)?
Spravato is an FDA-approved nasal spray that contains esketamine, a derivative of ketamine, which has been used for decades as an anesthetic. Unlike conventional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin and dopamine levels, Spravato works on the glutamate system, which plays a key role in forming new neural connections. This unique mechanism makes it particularly effective for individuals who have not experienced relief with other medications.
At Sturges Family Practice, we offer Spravato treatment in a safe, monitored setting, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care while undergoing this innovative therapy.
How Spravato Works
Spravato functions differently from traditional antidepressants by targeting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in the brain. By increasing glutamate activity, Spravato promotes the growth of new synaptic connections, helping to restore neural pathways that may have been damaged by prolonged depression. This process can lead to rapid improvements in mood and cognitive function, often within hours or days, rather than weeks or months.
The Treatment Process at Sturges Family Practice
At Sturges Family Practice, we follow a structured protocol to ensure Spravato treatment is both safe and effective for our patients:
Initial Consultation: Patients undergo a thorough evaluation with our experienced providers to determine if Spravato is the right treatment option.
Supervised Administration: Since Spravato has psychoactive effects, it must be administered under medical supervision in our clinic. Patients will self-administer the nasal spray under the guidance of our trained staff.
Observation Period: After each treatment, patients remain at our clinic for at least two hours for monitoring. Our team ensures that individuals are stable before they leave the facility.
Treatment Schedule: The initial phase consists of twice-weekly treatments for four weeks, followed by a maintenance phase that may involve weekly or biweekly treatments, depending on individual needs.
The Effectiveness of Spravato
Clinical trials have shown that Spravato can provide significant relief from depression symptoms, even in patients who have struggled with TRD for years. Many patients at Sturges Family Practice report noticeable mood improvements within hours or days of beginning treatment. This rapid response can be especially life-changing for those experiencing severe depressive symptoms or suicidal thoughts.
In combination with a traditional oral antidepressant, Spravato has been proven to significantly reduce depressive symptoms, allowing individuals to regain their energy, motivation, and overall quality of life.
Potential Side Effects
While Spravato offers remarkable benefits, patients should be aware of potential side effects. Some of the most common include:
Dizziness
Nausea
Increased blood pressure
Dissociation (a temporary feeling of detachment from reality)
Because of these effects, patients must arrange for transportation home after each session, as they are not permitted to drive for the remainder of the day. At Sturges Family Practice, our team closely monitors patients throughout their treatment to ensure safety and comfort.
Insurance Coverage and Affordability
We understand that cost can be a concern when considering new treatments. The good news is that most major insurance providers cover Spravato for eligible patients. At Sturges Family Practice, our staff will help you navigate the insurance process and determine the best way to access this life-changing treatment.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Many of our patients have shared powerful stories of transformation after undergoing Spravato treatment at Sturges Family Practice:
"After years of struggling with depression and trying countless medications, I finally found relief with Spravato. The team at Sturges Family Practice has been incredibly supportive throughout the entire process. For the first time in years, I feel hopeful again."
Hearing these success stories motivates us to continue offering cutting-edge mental health treatments for our community in Coeur d'Alene.
Is Spravato Right for You?
If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, Spravato may be a viable option. At Sturges Family Practice, our team is dedicated to helping patients explore all available treatments to find the one that works best for them.
To learn more about Spravato or to schedule a consultation, contact Sturges Family Practice today. We are here to help you take the next step toward a brighter, healthier future.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medical treatments.
