There’s been a lot of buzz around Spravato (Esketamine) lately. It’s been called a “game changer” for people with treatment-resistant depression, and it seems to be living up to the hype. But what exactly is Esketamine? How long does it take to work? And how long will the improvements last? In this blog post, we’ll answer all of your questions about Esketamine and time.
What is Esketamine?
Esketamine is a type of medication that binds to the same receptor in the brain as ketamine. It’s used to treat severe depression and can provide fast-acting results for those who have not responded to traditional antidepressants.
Esketamine works on several neurotransmitter systems, including glutamate. This neurotransmitter plays an important role in mood and cognition, and it’s believed that by activating glutamate receptors, Esketamine can help relieve depression symptoms. If you’d like to learn more about Spravato, check out our deep dive blog post.
How Long Does Esketamine Take to Work?
Esketamine is known for its rapid therapeutic effect, with results often seen as soon as 24 hours after the first dose. While some people may start to feel relief from symptoms within 1-2 days, more significant effects are usually seen within a week of beginning treatment. The positive effects of esketamine may be felt not only in terms of mood improvement but also changes in behavior, such as enhanced productivity and an increased interest in activities or conversations.
Initially, the most commonly reported side effects include dizziness, nausea, and headache; however these diminish over time with continued use. It is important to note that while it takes relatively little time to experience the relief that esketamine offers, patients should still continue taking the drug for at least 4 weeks before expecting maximum benefits and minimizing relapse risks. With proper adherence to dosage instructions and regular visits with a healthcare provider, individuals can expect long-term benefits from esketamine and a sustained reduction in depressive symptoms.
How Long Will the Benefits Last?
The effects of Esketamine are usually short-term and may last anywhere from several hours to a week or more. For some people, however, the benefits can last for around one month after starting treatment with Esketamine.
It’s important to note that Esketamine is not a long-term solution for depression. It should be used in conjunction with traditional antidepressant medications and psychotherapy to provide the best results.
How Long Should You Take Esketamine?
The recommended dose and duration of Esketamine treatment depends on individual circumstances. Your healthcare provider will be able to recommend the most suitable regimen for your specific needs. Generally, it is advised that patients take their medication for at least 4 weeks before assessing whether their symptoms have improved.
If you are taking Esketamine and continue to experience symptoms of depression, it is important that you speak to your doctor. It may be necessary to adjust the dose or try a different medication.
How Can You Extend the Benefits?
To maximize the effectiveness of Esketamine and extend its benefits, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Taking medications as prescribed and attending regular therapy sessions can help maintain improvements in mood over time. It is also important to make lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress.
Esketamine is a powerful and fast-acting medication for treating depression. With proper care and follow-up, individuals can experience significant relief from symptoms in just a few days, and with lifestyle changes, these benefits can last for weeks or months.
Interested in Starting Spravato Treatments?
If you’re interested in starting Spravato treatments, reach out to BestMind. Our team of compassionate and knowledgeable professionals will provide the guidance and support needed throughout this process. We understand that starting a new treatment plan can be overwhelming, so our team is available to answer any questions you may have. With BestMind’s help, you’ll be able to take the next step on your journey toward better mental health.
