Depression is a frustrating disorder that can affect your mood and ability to complete daily tasks, lowering your quality of life. Many people experience relief from their symptoms with antidepressants. However, if your symptoms don’t improve, you may have treatment-resistant depression. Your Psychiatric Consultants of Atlanta provider may recommend Spravato Atlanta in such cases.
Who can benefit from Spravato?
Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment effective for treating a major depressive disorder in patients whose symptoms have not responded to other treatments. If you have tried therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy without experiencing any significant improvement, you may be eligible for Spravato. Additionally, if you have severe symptoms of depression that put you at risk for suicide, your provider may recommend this treatment. Your provider may combine this treatment with oral antidepressants to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. However, not everyone can benefit from this treatment. Your doctor will perform a thorough medical exam to ensure you are eligible.
What to expect during the treatment
The first step is to consult your provider at Psychiatric Consultants of Atlanta, who may conduct a comprehensive assessment and discuss any previous treatments for depression you have had. Depending on your symptoms and treatment history, your doctor may recommend antidepressants. If you have suicidal thoughts or treatment-resistant depression, the team may suggest Spravato.
The procedure involves self-administering a nasal spray under the supervision of your doctor. During your consultation, the team will instruct you on administering the nasal spray. You may need doses per week for the first four weeks and then one per week for another four weeks. Afterward, you will receive a maintenance dose after every two to four weeks. During the treatment, your doctor will monitor you closely for side effects like elevated blood pressure or disassociation. You will remain at the facility for at least two hours until the team ensures it is safe to discharge you. You will need to plan transportation to and from the practice each treatment session, as driving yourself immediately after treatment will be unsafe. Over time you will experience a significant improvement in your mood and overall functioning.
Side effects associated with Spravato
Like any other medical treatment, Spravato may cause side effects like nausea, dissociation, and dizziness. These symptoms may prevent you from certain activities like operating machinery or driving. Dissociation is a feeling of detachment from yourself or your environment, which can be unsettling and disorienting. In rare cases, Spravato can result in severe symptoms, including hypertension, burning or pain when urinating, chest pain, vision changes, loss of consciousness, and sudden severe headaches. Another rare complication is an allergic reaction to the drug. Signs of an allergic reaction include itching or swelling on your face or throat, rash, or severe dizziness. If you experience these symptoms, inform your physician, who may revise your dosage.
Before beginning treatment, inform your doctor about any allergies to reduce your risk of allergic reactions. You should also disclose underlying medical issues, including cardiovascular and substance abuse disorders.
For more information about Spravato, call the Psychiatric Consultants of Atlanta office or book an appointment online.
