Esketamine (SPRAVATO)
Call 515-643-8350 to inquire.
MercyOne offers new option for treatment resistant depression
MercyOne Des Moines Psychiatry Residency Clinic now offers Esketamine (brand name SPRAVATO®), a breakthrough treatment for adults with treatment resistant depression, as well as depressive symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts or actions. Esketamine can help patients find relief, offering hope in what can feel like a hopeless situation.
Symptoms associated with major depressive disorder may include:
- Depressed mood or feelings of sadness
- Disrupted sleep
- Lack of interest or inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia)
- Feelings of guilt or hopelessness
- Lack of energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Slowed thoughts or movements (psychomotor retardation)
- Restlessness and/or purposeless movements (psychomotor agitation)
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
Learn more about esketamine treatment:
Call MercyOne Des Moines Psychiatry Residency Clinic at 515-643-8350.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is esketamine?
Esketamine is a prescription nasal spray, used along with an oral antidepressant taken by mouth to treat depressive symptoms and treatment resistant depression. In 2019, the FDA approved the use of esketamine in adults for the treatment of treatment resistant depressive disorder when used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant.
How does esketamine work?
Esketamine works differently than standard depression medications by NMDA receptor modulation as a novel mechanism for accelerated improvement in severe and chronic forms of depression. Esketamine, in addition to standard anti-depressants has been shown to help some depression patients have significantly better outcomes than oral anti-depressants alone. In fact, patients may find significant improvement in depression symptoms after completing their initial treatment regimen.
How long does treatment take?
Esketamine nasal spray is taken in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, and patients are monitored for two hours after receiving a dose.
Do I qualify for esketamine treatment?
Treatment-resistant depression is defined as adults who are currently struggling with major depressive disorder and have not responded adequately to at least two different antidepressants of adequate dose and duration in the current episode. Please consult with your provider or call MercyOne Des Moines Psychiatry Residency Clinic at 515-643-8350 to see if you qualify.
Will I continue care with my current mental health care provider?
Yes. We encourage that esketamine patients continue care with their current psychiatrist, therapist or other behavioral health care professional.
Should I continue taking my antidepressant medication?
Yes, you have to be taking antidepressant medication to qualify for esketamine treatment. Any medication changes need to be given by your mental health provider.
Why doesn’t my clinician offer esketamine?
Administering esketamine requires special equipment and training, so most psychiatric practices aren’t set up to offer this kind of treatment.
Are there risks with esketamine treatment?
A low dosage of esketamine is used to treat depression, making the treatments very safe. During the treatment, we monitor blood pressure, heart rate and other vitals to ensure patient safety.
Is esketamine addictive?
Esketamine itself, like some other medications prescribed for depression and anxiety, can be addictive. However, studies have shown that esketamine treatment, when administered in low doses and in a controlled setting presents virtually no risk of abuse or addiction.
Where can I be treated with esketamine?
Esketamine is only available at a few locations in central Iowa. The MercyOne Des Moines Psychiatry Residency Clinic is proud to offer this new option at our downtown MercyOne Medical Center location.
Will my insurance cover esketamine?
Please check with your insurance company to determine coverage.
Where can I learn more?
To learn more about esketamine treatment, contact your primary care provider or call MercyOne Des Moines Psychiatry Residency Clinic at 515-643-8350.
