Major depressive disorder (MDD) can prove to be challenging to treat. Some people may even experience what is known as treatment-resistant depression, which means that traditional medications and talk therapy do not provide relief from MDD symptoms. This can be disheartening to learn and lead to even more mental health struggles. It is beneficial to learn, then, that there are still options for treatment, such as estketamine, or Spravato, which can help manage your treatment-resistant depression symptoms.
While a wonderful tool for those who experience MDD, Spravato does not come without concerns. There are several potential side effects of Spravato in Austin that you should consider as you think about pursuing treatment. It is important to be fully informed about all aspects of your treatment, including potential drawbacks, so you are not surprised.
Spravato, a form of esketamine, is delivered via a nasal spray. When used in conjunction with your traditional treatment options, such as medication and talk therapy, Spravato can help patients in Austin manage MDD symptoms, so long as you are aware of the potential side effects. It does this by encouraging new neural connections in the mood regulation regions of your brain. This helps make overwhelming emotions manageable and allows you to engage in your desired activities more fully.
Spravato, while a useful tool for Austin patients, is not without side effects. These side effects may be minor, but you may also experience more serious drawbacks. These side effects are part of the reason that after treatment, we will monitor you for two hours before we release you. This helps ensure that you are in good health and not experiencing any side effects that may negatively impact your day.
There are common side effects of Spravato treatment that are perfectly normal. These include:
During your two-hour observation time, it is normal to experience some of these symptoms. The observation period is designed to ensure you are in a safe space and have a professional to monitor you. We will also provide you with soothing music or mindfulness activities to help you manage some of the side effects you may experience.
There is the possibility that you may experience a serious side effect when undergoing Spravato treatment. These serious side effects can include feeling sleepy, feeling sedated, or even losing consciousness. You may also experience dissociation, meaning you feel disconnected from yourself and your thoughts and feelings. In rare cases, some people experience breathing problems, such as shortness of breath. Also, there is a risk of increased suicidal thoughts, though this is common with many different psychiatric medications. You may also experience increased blood pressure.
Your Spravato treatment sessions will follow a similar trend each time. Our team will seat you in a safe, comfortable, private space and take your vitals. Then, you will self-administer the nasal spray under the supervision of our skilled team. You will have a two-hour waiting period in which we will monitor you to help manage any Spravato side effects you may experience at our Austin practice. Once your observation period is over, you will be free to leave with your pre-arranged ride, as you are not allowed to drive for some time after treatment.
Spravato is a wonderful tool to help you manage your treatment-resistant depression. Reach out and schedule a consultation to learn more about the benefits and the potential side effects of Spravato in Austin. It is important to learn about your treatment before you pursue it, and our skilled team at Cedar Park TMS is happy to walk you through the entire Spravato treatment process and help you determine if it is the right treatment option for you.
