Ketamine and Spravato (Esketamine): Understanding Their Use in Treating Mental Health Conditions

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) and Spravato present a unique option for those seeking relief from treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. This page delves into the science behind KAP and Spravato, its potential benefits, and the treatment process, empowering you to make informed decisions about your well-being, and helping you feel and function at your best.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a medication primarily used as an anesthetic in medical settings. First synthesized in the 1960s, Ketamine is commonly used for anesthesia induction and maintenance during surgical procedures, particularly in emergency settings due to its rapid onset of action.

In addition to its anesthetic properties, ketamine is also used off-label in treating various mental health conditions. At lower doses than those used for anesthesia, ketamine has shown efficacy in rapidly reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and certain types of chronic pain.

Ketamine is typically administered via intravenous infusion, although other administration routes such as intramuscular injection, oral tablets, and nasal sprays are also used in certain medical and research settings. When used for depression and other mental health conditions, ketamine treatment is often provided in a controlled clinical setting under medical supervision.

Ketamine is a Schedule III Controlled Substance under State and Federal law.

What is Spravato (Esketamine)?

Spravato is a brand-name medication containing esketamine, which is a form of ketamine. In 2019, it was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not responded adequately to other antidepressant treatments.

Spravato is administered as a nasal spray and is typically used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant. It is specifically indicated for individuals who have not experienced satisfactory improvement with at least two different antidepressant treatments in the current episode of depression.

Despite ketamine being an anesthetic, SPRAVATO is not for use as a medicine to prevent or relieve pain (anesthetic).

Disclaimer: It is not known if SPRAVATO is safe and effective for use in preventing suicide or in reducing suicidal thoughts or actions. SPRAVATO is not for use in place of hospitalization if your healthcare provider determines that hospitalization is needed, even if improvement is experienced after the first dose of SPRAVATO. It is also not known if SPRAVATO is safe and effective in children.

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a mental health treatment approach that utilizes the trance-inducing and pain-relieving characteristics of ketamine to aid individuals in addressing a range of mental and emotional difficulties. This typically involves the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, in conjunction with psychotherapy sessions. The patient is administered ketamine in a controlled clinical setting, through various routes of administration, while a therapist guides the patient through the experience. The psychotherapy component may involve exploring thoughts, emotions, and experiences that arise during the ketamine session, with the goal of facilitating therapeutic insights and personal growth.

 

 

How do they work:

Both Ketamine and Spravato work by antagonizing the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor in the brain, which plays a role in pain perception, memory, and mood regulation. It also affects other neurotransmitter systems, including glutamate and serotonin, which play a role in mood disorders.

Potential benefits:

     

      • Studies have shown that Ketamine produces rapid antidepressant effects within hours or days of administration. This is beneficial for patients with severe depressive symptoms or those with TRD

      • Research has also shown that the beneficial effects of ketamine last long after the acute administration period which is advantageous for patients who are looking for long-term symptom management. It should be noted however that the effects of Ketamine may still vary among individuals.

      • Unlike other traditional antidepressant medications, Ketamine has a low risk of drug interactions when used in combination with other medications. This is a possible option for patients with complex medical conditions or those taking multiple medications 

      • Ketamine is administered by a trained professional in a controlled clinical environment, therefore, it is considered generally safe.

    Important Considerations

    Despite the innovation in the field of mental health that Ketamine and Spravato brought about, there are still considerations to take note of:

       

        • Ketamine and Spravato are administered using different methods. It is best that patients talk to their health care provider which is best for them.

        • Ketamine and Spravato may cause various side effects such as nausea, headaches, and dizziness. It is imperative to address these symptoms immediately to ensure patient’s comfort and continued treatment 

        • Patients’ health history should always be considered. Certain medical conditions such as liver disease, hypertension, and substance use disorders may not be suitable for ketamine/Spravato treatment. Due to potential complications, patients are advised to always consult with their physicians to find out if they are eligible for ketamine/Spravato.

      Spravato & Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program (SKAPP)

      Discover the transformative mental health services at Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry in Michigan, where we specialize in cutting-edge treatments like our Spravato & Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program (SKAPP). Whether you’re struggling with treatment-resistant depression or other mental health challenges, our clinic offers compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs. Our highly trained professionals pair each treatment with expert integration sessions, ensuring rapid symptom relief and fostering long-term emotional growth.

      At Best Fit Counseling & Psychiatry, we offer both intramuscular ketamine and Spravato (esketamine) through SKAPP, providing a comprehensive, innovative approach to treating mental health conditions. Patients can choose between Spravato or ketamine, both administered in a controlled clinical setting for fast relief of depressive symptoms. As these medications target brain receptors involved in mood regulation, and when combined with psychotherapy, they offer emotional support to address deeper mental health issues. This holistic approach promotes immediate and sustained mental wellness, allowing you to feel and function at your best. Contact us today to start your journey toward lasting healing and improved well-being.

      Disclaimer:

      The information provided here is intended for general knowledge only and should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional about your specific situation and treatment options.

      References:

         

          • American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). Ketamine/esketamine in clinical practice: What clinicians need to know. APA Learning Center. https://education.psychiatry.org/Listing/2472a89f-11e3-4ed1-b3ae-3be51401a71c

          • Hvizdos, A. (2016). The use of ketamine in the acute management of depression. U.S. Pharmacist, 41(11), HS28–HS32.

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