SPRAVATO is a medication which is taken orally, under the supervision of a medical professional, to treat treatment-resistant depression (TRD). SPRAVATO, also called esketamine, is a safe, prescription version of ketamine which became FDA-approved in 2019 to treat TRD and major depressive disorder (MDD).
 
While taking SPRAVATO, you should avoid consuming alcohol and taking other medications, such as sedatives, that can cause drowsiness. Mixing alcohol and SPRAVATO can have fatal effects, so it is strongly advised to cease use in the days prior to your session. Consult your healthcare provider if you are using cannabis products or prescription medications.
 
It is important to not eat or drink for 4 hours before your ketamine treatment, to limit the risk of nausea or vomiting during the session. You can drink clear liquids, such as water, as it is advised to keep yourself well hydrated. It is recommended to arrive at your session well rested and in comfortable clothing.
 
In addition, you should avoid driving after the session, so it is important to plan a ride to and from the treatment center. It is best to ask a close friend or family member to accompany you to treatment and provide a ride home, as you may have an altered state of consciousness and should be in the care of an individual you trust.
 
It is important to inform the specialist of any pre-existing medical conditions you may have during your consultation session, such as:
 
– Heart problems
– Liver problems
– Psychosis
– Pregnancy or breastfeeding
– Brain injury
 
Furthermore, it is advised to not plan any activities on the day of your treatment. It is recommended by specialists to take a restful day to recover after taking SPRAVATO.

Ketamine nasal spray is typically administered by a healthcare provider in a medical setting. The medical professional will measure the appropriate dose of the ketamine nasal spray and administer it into your nostril by using a special applicator. If you desire, you can administer the ketamine nasal spray yourself, under the close supervision of the medical specialist.
 
As ketamine can produce visual distortions, sensory distortions, euphoria and distorted reality, it is essential to complete your treatment in a medical setting, from start to finish. A typical ketamine treatment lasts from 90 minutes to 2 hours. A healthcare professional will monitor your condition and advise you when your treatment is finished and it is safe to return home.
 
The effects of the ketamine nasal spray will wear off after several hours or a few days, depending on the dosage. Depending on your response to the treatment, several sessions may be recommended to most effectively treat your symptoms. Consistent treatment allows for longer lasting benefits.

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a medical condition that is difficult to treat with traditional antidepressant medications and remedies. Ketamine, a drug commonly used as an anesthetic, provides relief for those with TRD. Since becoming FDA-approved in 2019, ketamine treatment has provided a rapid and effective solution, offering a decrease in TRD symptoms in as little as 24 hours.
 
Ketamine works by binding to a specific type of receptor in the brain called the NMDA receptor. This binding leads to changes in the activity of certain neurotransmitters, particularly glutamate, which is involved in the regulation of your mood. Ketamine also leads to the release of other neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline, which are also involved in mood regulation.
 
Ketamine nasal spray has a rapid and robust antidepressant effect which can help relieve the symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine nasal spray works by restoring the balance of neurotransmitters in brain circuits that are involved in mood regulation. It is important to note that ketamine treatment is not suitable for everyone, and it is very important to consult a specialist to determine what course of treatment is best for you.
 
Symptoms of treatment-resistant depression can be minor to severe. It might be challenging to diagnose depression that resists treatment. Our board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Soroya Bacchus at Psychiatry Unplugged can help you to identify and treat your health issues. We are conveniently located at 6801 Park Terrace, Suite 530B Los Angeles CA 90045. For more information, call us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Los Angeles CA, Beverly Hills CA, Santa Monica CA, Encino CA, Pacific Palisades CA, and surrounding areas.