ESKETAMINE

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As of February 2019, the FDA has approved Esketamine for treatment-resistant depression (Major Depressive Disorder in adults who have not responded adequately to multiple medication trials).  It is a unique antidepressant with remarkable efficacy in treating adults who have not responded (or responded inadequately) to other treatments, providing hope to many patients who suffer with depression but unable to find relief elsewhere. 

Treatment courses are usually twice a week for the first month, and then are maintained as needed, usually once a week or twice a month.  Due to it’s potentially strong sedating and cardiovascular effects, Esketamine is administered as a nasal spray in a doctor’s office and requires in-office oversight for at least two hours by an assistant.  Of course, for these same reasons, driving after the treatment is strictly forbidden, so alternate transportation needs to be arranged.  

Most common side effects include a lot of sedation-associated effects: dissociation, dizziness, nausea, sleepiness, vertigo, anxiety, blood pressure increase, and/or vomiting. Watching over patients as they recover helps to identify these possible side effects and avoid them in the future. 

Please contact us for an appointment to determine the suitability of esketamine for your unique condition. 

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