Various factors influence treatment efficacy. For example, adhering to medication guidelines enhances the chances of treatment success. Spravato, also known as esketamine, is a nasal spray that doctors prescribe with oral antidepressants to help depressed patients restore their interest in daily living. Administration of spravato Atlanta occurs in-office for effective management of side effects.
You may experience drowsiness, dizziness, fainting, and anxiety, which are the most common side effects of the drug. Patients also experience dissociation, a feeling of disconnectedness from consciousness. Patient monitoring is critical for at least two hours after esketamine administration to ensure relief from side effects and safety for hospital discharge. Another side effect of taking esketamine is the risk of abuse and psychological dependence. There is a need for careful understanding and consent to follow the requirements of the Spravato REMS Program. Consulting your doctor and pharmacist for your country’s regulations is also critical to ensure the safe use of the drug.
How to use spravato
Your pharmacist will provide a medication guide to read before starting esketamine. Review the guidelines each time you go for treatment to ensure you do not miss anything. The following are some of the guidelines to consider:
Fasting for at least two hours before treatment is necessary to reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting. You may also need to avoid drinking liquids at least 30 minutes prior to treatment.
A stuffy nose will require corticosteroid or decongestant drops or spray in your nose to clear the airway for esketamine treatment. Clearing a stuffy nose should happen one hour before the spravato treatment.
Spravato treatment requires the use of a nasal spray device. You will receive adequate instructions from your healthcare professional to help you use the nasal spray device.
You may need to blow your nose before treatment. Your dose will determine the number of spray devices you use during each treatment. Each device requires you to spray once in each nose. Upon spraying each device, lean your head back to give the drug time to enter your body. You will need to rest for five minutes after using each device. Avoid blowing your nose immediately after completing your spravato dose.
Your doctor will perform monitoring at least two hours after treatment to detect side effects and provide necessary management protocols. Ensure you bring a loved one to your esketamine appointment, who will drive you home after the treatment.
Spravato treatment requires patient-centeredness. Your doctor will develop an appropriate plan, including a specific dose and treatment schedule depending on your condition and treatment progress. Committing to treatment ensures desired clinical outcomes.
You must stop the medication gradually to minimize withdrawal symptoms like cravings, tiredness, poor appetite, and anxiety). Collaborating with a trusted care provider will ensure a seamless spravato treatment. However, you will also need to play your part by following recommended guidelines to ensure treatment efficacy. Contact Psychiatric Consultants of Atlanta if you are undergoing spravato Medication for your depression to inform your doctor about treatment progress to identify the need for dosage adjustments.