Depression is a debilitating mental health condition that affects about 280 million people worldwide. Traditional antidepressants often take weeks to show effects, and some individuals may not respond to these treatments at all. This is where S-ketamine, a relatively new and promising intervention, comes into play.
S-ketamine is a derivative of ketamine and is administered under the Spravato® name. Almost all insurance plans cover S-ketamine treatment, and patients can benefit from savings programs, some paying just $10 per treatment.
Here at Palo Alto Mind Body, we offer Spravato at our practice in Palo Alto, California, helping our treatment-resistant depression (TRD) patients overcome their symptoms and condition.
S-ketamine is administered in nasal form and has been gaining attention for its rapid and robust antidepressant effects. The main benefits of S-ketamine for helping with depression include:
One of the most significant benefits of S-ketamine is its rapid onset of action. Unlike traditional antidepressants that may take several weeks to start working, S-ketamine can alleviate depressive symptoms within hours to days. This kind of rapid relief allows individuals who are experiencing severe depression or suicidal ideation to get much-needed quick intervention.
Many patients with depression don’t respond adequately to conventional antidepressant therapies. S-ketamine has shown effectiveness in individuals with treatment-resistant depression, offering hope to those who haven’t found relief with other medications.
Studies have demonstrated that a significant percentage of patients who don’t respond to traditional antidepressants experience a substantial reduction in depressive symptoms with S-ketamine treatment.
S-ketamine works through a different mechanism than most traditional antidepressants. It primarily acts on the glutamatergic system, specifically targeting NMDA and AMPA receptors in the brain. This unique action helps restore synaptic connections and enhance neuroplasticity, which is believed to be disrupted in depression.
By addressing depression through this novel pathway, S-ketamine offers an alternative for patients who haven’t benefited from other types of antidepressants.
Patients receiving S-ketamine often report not only a reduction in depressive symptoms but also an overall improvement in mood and cognitive function. This includes better emotional regulation, increased motivation, and enhanced clarity of thought.
Although the effects of S-ketamine can be rapid, ongoing research suggests that repeated dosing may lead to sustained antidepressant progress over time. Maintenance treatments can help prolong the benefits and potentially reduce the frequency of depressive episodes.
The potential for long-term relief makes S-ketamine a valuable tool in managing chronic depression.
If you suffer from TRD and are looking for an FDA-approved solution covered by insurance, call our team today at 650-681-2900, or book a consultation online to learn more about S-ketamine.
