If you are struggling with symptoms of depression, finding a treatment that works can feel like an uphill battle. If you have tried antidepressants or psychotherapy without success, SPRAVATO may restore your hope for a solution that works. If you are considering this effective treatment, you may have questions about the potential side effects of SPRAVATO in Pittsburgh. Our expert team is here to help you understand what mental and physical side effects you may experience from this innovative treatment.
SPRAVATO is an FDA-cleared treatment used to manage symptoms of treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation in adults. It is administered as a nasal spray containing esketamine, which works by acting on the brain’s NMDA receptors to modulate glutamate, balance neurotransmitters, and regulate mood.
SPRAVATO works differently than traditional antidepressants, which makes it a potentially transformative option for those with severe depression who have not responded to other treatments. Based on available studies, after three months of SPRAVATO use, 88% of patients experienced a significant reduction in symptoms, and some reported that their symptoms completely resolved.
SPRAVATO is considered generally safe, and any side effects are well-tolerated by most people in Pittsburgh, but you can expect a few side effects during or immediately after your session. These can include:
Your SPRAVATO dose will be administered at our office under the guidance of our dedicated clinical team. One of our clinicians will monitor your mental and physical health for about two hours in our office to ensure your safety and manage any side effects that may arise.
While SPRAVATO is considered safe for most Pittsburgh patients, like with any medical treatment, there are a few risks of SPRAVATO to be aware of before scheduling your sessions. This esketamine-based nasal spray works as a sedative, so it can cause drowsiness, which can make driving dangerous. You will need to arrange for someone to pick you up after your SPRAVATO treatment.
Though it is rare, the sedative effects of SPRAVATO can cause temporary breathing problems in patients with certain respiratory conditions. It can also cause temporary spikes in blood pressure. While this should not cause side effects for healthy individuals, if you have uncontrolled hypertension, SPRAVATO can increase your risk of certain complications like stroke, aneurysm, or cardiac problems.
Another important risk to be aware of is that taking any antidepressant medication has the potential to increase suicidal ideation. SPRAVATO is FDA-approved to treat suicidal thoughts in adults, so while we do not anticipate this, it is vital to monitor your emotional state during your treatment course and let us know right away if you experience any negative changes.
For individuals who are experiencing symptoms of depression and have not found relief from traditional methods, SPRAVATO can be a transformative solution. The best way to know if you are a candidate for SPRAVATO is by scheduling an appointment at our office. Here, one of our board-certified psychiatry providers will meet with you for an initial evaluation where we will discuss your medical and psychiatric history, any previous treatments you have tried, and mental health goals. Once we get a sense of your overall health and psychiatric needs, we can consider the potential side effects and risks of SPRAVATO to determine your eligibility for treatments in Pittsburgh.
If you have more questions about the potential side effects of SPRAVATO in Pittsburgh, our dedicated clinical team is here to provide individualized guidance. We are here to help you understand what to expect from SPRAVATO so you can make informed decisions for your care. Call today to schedule an initial evaluation and discuss your options.
