The Immediate & Lasting Power of Spravato for PTSD and TRD

The Immediate & Lasting Power of Spravato for PTSD and TRD

The Albany Clinic • March 14, 2024

In the realm of mental health treatment, especially for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), the emergence of innovative and effective solutions is always a cause for celebration. The introduction of a new service that has the potential to significantly impact the lives of individuals battling major depression marks a significant milestone in the field of psychiatry. In this article, we'll explore the background on depression and PTSD while introducing Spravato® as a innovative treatment option.

Background on Depression and PTSD

Major depression is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Shockingly, between 20% to 70% of Americans diagnosed with major depression may experience treatment-resistant depression after failing at least two adequate trials of antidepressant medication. This staggering statistic highlights the urgent need for alternative and more effective treatment options.

Spravato®: An Innovation in Depression and PTSD Treatment

One groundbreaking solution that has garnered attention since its FDA approval in 2019 is Spravato® (esketamine) nasal spray. This innovative medication has shown promising results during clinical trials in rapidly bringing relief of depressive symptoms to patients grappling with major depression, including those experiencing suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, in clinical trials it has been proven that when combined with an oral antidepressant patients experienced significantly longer relief. The ability of Spravato® to provide swift, substantial, and long-lasting alleviation from depressive symptoms is a game-changer in the realm of mental health treatment.

The Eskatmine Difference

As a nasal spray derived from ketamine, esketamine offers an evidenced based treatment option for patients who have not found relief from traditional antidepressants. Unlike its precursor, ketamine which is administered intravenously, esketamine is administered nasally through a spray. This targeted approach allows for lower dosages, reducing potential side effects. Notably, it can rapidly alleviate symptoms, including suicidal ideation—a vital benefit highlighted by Johns Hopkins Medicine. This novel treatment requires administration under medical supervision due to initial side effects, emphasizing its safe and controlled use.

If you feel treatment for depression isn’t working, talk to your psychiatrist to see if esketamine therapy is an option for you. If you're local to Carbondale Illinois, we can help!

What qualifies you for SPRAVATO®?

Spravato®, a treatment for those with severe depression not responding to conventional medications, is covered by most major insurance policies and designed for medicinal use, distinctly from its ketamine counterpart. It's important to dispel misinformation about Spravato® and ketamine, recognizing Spravato's role in treating depression effectively. However, it's not suitable for everyone, especially individuals with cardiovascular issues or a history of substance abuse, due to risks associated with blood pressure elevation and potential for misuse.


A few other risk factors must be taken into consideration so be sure to tell your provider if you have heart, brain or liver problems, you have ever had psychosis (see, feel, or hear things that aren't there, or believe in things that aren't true), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. All prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins or herbal supplements, must be disclosed to your healthcare professional.


At your appointment your healthcare professional will discuss common side effects with you before deciding if Spravato® is right for you in treating your symptoms of depression.

Clinical Trials and Studies on Spravato®

» Swift Delivery

What sets Spravato® apart from traditional oral antidepressant medications is its unique mode of administration. As a nasal spray, Spravato® bypasses the digestive system and is directly absorbed into the bloodstream through the nasal mucosa. This alternative route of delivery allows for faster onset of action and more targeted delivery of the medication to the brain, resulting in quicker relief for patients in distress.


» Enhanced Access to Life-Saving Medication

Albany Clinic's commitment to providing greater access to Spravato® is a testament to our dedication to improving mental health care. By offering this potentially life-saving medication to patients in need, we are bridging the gap for individuals whose depressive disorder has not responded to conventional treatment methods. The impact of this increased accessibility cannot be overstated in the realm of mental health treatment.


» Future Directions for Spravato® in Depression and PTSD Treatment

Further supporting this breakthrough treatment option, in March 2024 the UConn Health Department of Psychiatry launched a new eskatemine service which represents a significant opportunity to contribute to the scientific literature surrounding this new medicine. Through research, clinical trials, and scholarly collaborations, UConn Health aims to expand understanding of the efficacy and potential applications of Spravato®, paving the way for future advancements in the field of mental health treatment.

Clinical Trials and Studies on Spravato®

Curious about how esketamine service works? Let's dive in and explore the process step by step.


» The Nasal Spray Administration

Once your physician has determined you meet the criteria for esketamine treatment they will administer the nasal spray. Each patient at Albany Clinic is carefully attended to by their treating provider. The nasal spray is expertly administered in the office to ensure the safety and comfort of every individual undergoing treatment.


» Treatment Schedule

Patients receiving esketamine follow a customized treatment schedule. Initially, patients may receive the nasal spray frequently. Following this intensive phase, the frequency of administration may reduced based on results in reducing depressive symptoms. This structured approach aims to optimize the therapeutic benefits of esketamine for patients and help to reduce common side effects.


» Continuation of Treatment

After the initial period of treatment, patients may continue receiving esketamine on a less frequent basis based on an assessment by their provider. This flexibility allows for personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's needs. Qualified providers at The Albany Clinic work closely with patients to determine the most effective and sustainable long-term treatment strategy.


» The Powerful Potential of Combining Esketamine Treatment with Therapy

One of the most promising avenues in mental health treatment for depressive disorders such as PTSD and TRD involves the fusion of esketamine with therapy and oral antidepressants. When combined with therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychotherapy, esketamine treatment can potentially enhance the overall efficacy of treatment by addressing both the biological and psychological aspects of depression.

The synergistic effect of esketamine and therapy holds the promise of not just alleviating symptoms but also addressing the underlying causes of depression, leading to more sustainable and long-term recovery outcomes for individuals battling treatment-resistant depression.

the word spravato is on a white background

Conclusion & Support

As we look ahead to the future of mental health treatment, the emergence of new services that combine esketamine treatment with traditional therapies offers a dual ability to contribute to the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and treatment resistant depression. By integrating cutting-edge pharmacological interventions with evidence-based psychological approaches, these services have the potential to address the complex and multifaceted nature of depression more comprehensively.


Furthermore, by grounding their practice in the evidence base that guides the mental health field, these innovative services not only provide clinical benefits to individuals seeking relief from depression but also contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and best practices in mental health care.


Together, the collaborative efforts of researchers, clinicians, and institutions like UConn School of Medicine and John Hopkins Medicine pave the way for clinics like The Albany Clinic to envision a future where individuals with treatment-resistant depression have access to more effective and holistic treatment options that promote healing and recovery.


Seeking Help for Severe Depression or Suicidal Thoughts

Struggling with severe depression or suicidal thoughts is an urgent matter that requires immediate attention and care. If you or someone you know is in crisis, it's essential to take action to ensure safety and well-being.


Alert Your Psychiatric Provider Immediately

If you have a psychiatric provider or therapist, let them know about your current state as soon as possible. They can offer support, guidance, and even make adjustments to your treatment plan to provide you with the help you need.


Get Help by Calling 9-1-1, 2-1-1, or the National Suicide & Crisis Hotline 988

If you do not have a psychiatric provider or if the situation is urgent, do not hesitate to reach out for help immediately. You can call emergency services by dialing 9-1-1, contact a local crisis helpline such as 2-1-1, or connect with the National Suicide & Crisis Hotline by dialing 988. These resources are available 24/7 to provide support and assistance during times of crisis.


The Albany Clinic in Carbondale Illinois invites you to reach out for expert guidance and support on your journey towards healing and stability. We offer Spravato® treatment as well as traditional ketamine infusion, TMS therapy, and other services to help with depression.

35 Albany Rd. Suite A Carbondale, IL 62903

Phone:     (888) 804-4330

Source:

Daly, Ella J et al. “Efficacy of Esketamine Nasal Spray Plus Oral Antidepressant Treatment for Relapse Prevention in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” JAMA psychiatry vol. 76,9 (2019): 893-903. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.1189

Book Your Free Initial Consultation

In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine Therapy: What’s Best for Your Mental Health?

By Kimberly Mercille • July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy

A Guide to IV Ketamine

By Matt Rodriguez • July 8, 2025
Intravenous (IV) ketamine has emerged as a promising option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other hard-to-treat mental health conditions. Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic, but is now being used in controlled medical settings to deliver rapid relief when traditional therapies fall short. This guide explores the history, science, benefits, and practical considerations of IV ketamine therapy and what you can expect from treatment at The Albany Clinic.

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Depression

By Kimberly Mercille • May 27, 2025
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an emerging mental health treatment that targets key mechanisms linked to depression. In this article, we’ll discuss the science behind SGB and its potential benefits. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this information can help you make an informed decision about whether SGB might be the right option. What is a Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)? What is the Stellate Ganglion? The stellate ganglion is a cluster of sympathetic nerves located on each side of the neck near the first rib. These nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. The term "stellate" means "star-shaped" because the ganglion often looks like a star under a microscope. It helps regulate the body's stress response by controlling norepinephrine, a chemical that triggers the fight-or-flight reaction. When this system becomes overactive, it can cause various physical and psychological problems, including depression. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy may help by reducing the activity of the stellate ganglion, calming the fight-or-flight response, and lessening the damaging effects of prolonged nervous system stress. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work? Stellate Ganglion block (SGB) is when a local anesthetic is injected near the stellate ganglion. These drugs inhibit transmission between nerve cells, dampening activity in the ganglion. They typically include lidocaine, bupivacaine, or mepivacaine, which are sometimes combined with a steroid medication. Patients may also receive another medication to relax them before treatment. SGB is typically performed using ultrasound guidance . The injection process lasts no more than 10 minutes, but patients will motinoted for another 30-45 minutes after treatment to ensure their safety. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work for Depression? Chronic stress is a major contributor to depression and is often linked to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. People with depression commonly show high levels of cortisol, a hormone that plays a key role in the body's stress response, in their blood stream. Cortisol is helpful in small doses, but when chronically elevated, it can disrupt neural circuits in the brain. Excessive cortisol can lead to: Neurotoxicity - Cortisol can be toxic to nerve cells, especially in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and emotional regulation. Overinflammation - Cortisol increases the activity of the body’s natural defense system, resulting in the system causing damage to nerve cells. Impaired synaptic plasticity - Cortisol inhibits the capacity for the brain to “re-wire” itself. This makes it harder for people to adapt to stressful situations and learn new patterns of behaviour. Disrupted sleep - High cortisol can prevent people from sleeping well. During sleep, restorative biological processes occur in the brain, and excess cortisol can prevent these from happening. SGB decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can reduce cortisol levels. This can help restore function in brain areas and pathways associated with positive mood, emotional regulation, and stress resilience. Evidence Supporting SGB for Depression To date, there’s very limited evidence supporting the use of SGB for depression. One pilot study found that SGP significantly reduced depression symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and was well-tolerated. However, there was no significant difference to the placebo group and the sample size was very small. Nonetheless, multiple lines of research show that SGB can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which shares similarities with depression. In a trial of SGB for PTSD , participants reported significantly lower scores of depression following treatment. Who May Benefit from SGB for Depression? SGB is primarily utilized for treating PTSD, so individuals with PTSD who also experience depression may find SGB beneficial. Additionally, SGB has shown potential in alleviating anxiety symptoms, suggesting it may be advantageous for those dealing with both depression and anxiety. Because SGB isn’t approved by the FDA, it is typically only used when standard treatments like antidepressants and psychotherapy haven’t worked. SGB is an “off-label” treatment, much like ketamine therapy or brain stimulation therapies. Importantly, SGB may not be suitable for everyone because of medical reasons. Contraindications include: Recent myocardial infarction Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy Glaucoma Pre-existing contralateral phrenic nerve palsy Severe emphysema Cardiac conduction block Potential Risks and Side Effects of SGB Common Side Effects Most side effects of SGB are temporary and resolve as the anesthetic wears off. These may include: Hoarseness or Voice Changes: The proximity of the stellate ganglion to nerves controlling the voice box can lead to temporary hoarseness. Drooping Eyelid (Ptosis): Temporary drooping of the eyelid on the side of the injection may occur. Red or Bloodshot Eyes: Some individuals may notice redness in the eyes following the procedure. Watery Eyes and Nasal Congestion: Increased tearing and nasal stuffiness are possible but typically short-lived. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat and Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may experience a sensation of a lump in the throat and have difficulty swallowing after the procedure. Warmth or Tingling in the Arm or Hand: A warm or tingling sensation in the affected limb may be experienced temporarily. Although uncommon, some individuals may experience more serious complications, such as nerve damage, seizures, and allergic reactions. Given the potential risks, patients interested in SGB at the Albany Clinic will have an in-depth consultation with one of our qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing treatment. They can assess your medical history, current health status, and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure in your specific case. SGB for Depression in Illinois If you're in the Carbondale area and interested in the potential benefits of SGB for depression, the Albany Clinic is here to help. We specialize in innovative mental health treatments, including SGB, which has been shown to provide rapid relief from mental health symptoms, with effects lasting several weeks. Our experienced team offers personalized support, guiding you through every step—from determining if SGB is the right option for you to exploring alternative treatments and financial considerations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your mental health journey.