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Spravato Vs Ketamine

What's The Difference Between Spravato And Ketamine?

October 06, 2023

You might have read about SPRAVATO, the first breakthrough depression medication in over two decades. Made exclusively for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), Spravato acts on particular neural pathways to boost mood regulation. Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, frequently confused with the anesthetic ketamine. The two medicines are comparable, though there are various important differences between Spravato and ketamine.

What is Spravato (esketamine)?

Spravato is a revolutionary new drug that works in a different manner than established antidepressants. The medication comes in the form of a self-administered nasal spray and assists the brain in delivering messages more productively. By triggering particular receptors, you can better govern mood and reduce harmful depression symptoms. The effect on mood can be quick, especially for people who suffer from Treatment-Resistant Depression.

The active ingredient in Spravato is esketamine, a ketamine derivative. Despite the fact that ketamine and Spravato are chemically similar, they affect the body in different ways. Ketamine functions as an anesthetic, while esketamine stimulates different neural receptors to boost brain plasticity. Considering there is a possibility of side effects like sedation, Spravato is always given under the guidance of a recognized healthcare provider, like The Counseling Center in West Caldwell.

Esketamine is noted for its swift impact, with results frequently noticed as soon as 1-2 days after the first dose. Clinical studies demonstrate that treatment benefits are realized at the conclusion of the 4-week induction period. Patients using Spravato have reported:

• Mood regulation

• Enhanced productivity

• Heightened interest in socialization

Spravato will not replace your regular antidepressant but is taken with your usual antidepressant.

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a substance typically employed as a limited-duration anesthetic and given intravenously. The FDA has never endorsed ketamine to manage depression. Ketamine also has emerged as a "club drug" that has grown in popularity among young adults and teens. Ingested as a liquid or powder, ketamine can generate sensations of euphoria and dissociation from reality. To lean more about ketamine addiction, please call us at 973-453-0808.

What Is The Difference Between Spravato and Ketamine?

Common Questions Concerning Spravato vs. Ketamine

Will Spravato reduce pain like ketamine?

Spravato is not intended to treat pain, and pain reduction hasn’t been observed as a side effect. Ketamine is utilized as a surgical and veterinary anesthetic.


Can I take Spravato on my own?

Presently, Spravato is only accessible through authorized healthcare providers in light of sedation and dissociation side effects and the danger of misuse or abuse.

What is Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)?

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

  • You've been diagnosed with a severe depressive disorder
  • You’ve used at least two antidepressant medicines
  • You haven’t been receptive to treatment

Millions of people globally are diagnosed with a major depressive disorder, and approximately 30% of those are challenged with TRD.

What is Spravato treatment like?

First of all, if you think Spravato could benefit you, you need a clinical assessment to figure out if the medication is suitable. At each session, you'll have your vital signs taken and administer the nasal spray yourself. Each Spravato session may last as long as two hours so professionals can watch for side effects. A short appraisal is performed at the finish of each session to record your progress. Due to safety matters, the drug will only be available via a REMS-certified Spravato Treatment Center like The Counseling Center in West Caldwell. It is also advised that you participate in regular therapy sessions when using Spravato.

Want To Know More About Spravato?

Reach out to the Counseling Center to find out if Spravato is appropriate for you. Chat with an expert by calling 973-453-0808 or completing the form on this page. We're ready for you 24/7, each day of the week.

Are You Experiencing Treatment-Resistant Depression? Take Our Assessment!
Not sure what Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) is? Check out our blog for detailed information and insights. If you have been diagnosed with TRD, we can help you explore your treatment options such as SPRAVATO.