Spravato vs Infusion: Which is Better for What?

Modern treatments of mental health conditions have improved in the recent past and, therefore, give hope to people with depression. Among several others, the drug that has been receiving much attention is ketamine. It claims to deliver quick results to people suffering from treatment-resistant depression and other related psychiatric disorders.

In this post, our main focus is to differentiate between the two forms of ketamine: Spravato (nasal) and IV Infusion. So, whether you are new to this treatment or want to get more insights about your options, this blog will be an excellent resource for you.

The Basics of Spravato (Esketamine)

Esketamine, marketed under the brand name Spravato, is a ketamine derivative. It acts specifically on the NMDA receptor located in the brain and is involved in mood enhancement.

Esketamine, when given as a nasal spray, absorbs in the bloodstream through the lining of the nasal cavity. In the blood, the drug rapidly enters the brain and attaches itself to NMDA receptors. Ultimately, all this results in unique chemical reactions that improve mood and create a relaxed feeling.

Approved by the FDA in 2019, Spravato is prescribed mainly for the treatment of resistant depression and major depressive disorder.

The Basics of IV Ketamine Infusion

Ketamine infusions involve the direct administration of ketamine into the blood. This well-established route of administration allows us to adjust the dosage of the drug carefully. The IV route also eliminates the slow absorption and results in quick effects.

Ketamine also acts on the NMDA receptors and results in the same cascade of chemical changes in the brain as that of Spravato.

It gives swift alleviation of depressive signs. Therefore, it has been indicated as a useful treatment for anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The infusions are normally done in clinical facilities, so there could be close supervision for safety reasons.

Spravato vs Infusion: Difference between the Treatment Process

The administration processes of Spravato and ketamine are different, as the former involves a nasal spray while the latter comes in infusion.

Depending on your unique conditions, Spravato has to be administered as a nasal spray in a clinic, preferably twice a week within the first two weeks. The session runs for about two hours, allowing the healthcare provider to observe the person under treatment and rule out reactions, if any.

Ketamine, on the other hand, is administered intravenously, and its duration of administration is usually between 40 minutes and one hour. The patient is often given several sessions in a week. Monitoring is required in a clinic for each infusion.

As for the comparison between Spravato and infusion, the nasal spray is more convenient. In contrast, the infusion can be more accurately dosed and regulated.

Cost Considerations

The cost factor is another consideration when deciding between Spravato and infusion. The cost of Spravato is significantly higher than IV infusions. However, due to its FDA approval, it can possibly be covered by your insurance company\ reducing the out-of-pocket expenses.

On the other hand, the cost of a single ketamine infusion session can range from $400 to $800, and most insurance companies do not cover off-label uses, making out-of-pocket expenses even higher. Financial assistance for the procedures might be possible, but the total price remains challenging for most patients.

Accessibility and Availability

Spravato and infusion treatments are not identical in terms of accessibility.

Spravato is approved by the FDA and can be accessed in most of the certified treatment centers within the United States, making it more accessible. However, the requirement for administration in a medical setting can limit its use.

Ketamine infusions, being off-label, are available in specialized clinics but may not be as widely accessible as Spravato. Your location and the local policies of your area can greatly influence your accessibility to the ketamine infusion. Finally, specialized staff also need to administer this unique therapy, making it even harder to access this treatment.

If you are looking for a board-certified ketamine center in NY Long Island, contact us today. We at Ketalink offer both ketamine IV and nasal therapy at affordable prices.

Efficacy of Spravato vs Infusion

Research has indicated that Spravato can be an effective therapy against mental health conditions, which hasn't shown much improvement with antidepressants. Interestingly, similar benefits have also been noticed with ketamine infusions.

The more recent therapy involving the nasal administration of ketamine also revealed positive results in reducing the symptoms of depression within a day of starting the therapy.

Unfortunately, not much is known about the comparative efficacy of these treatments. Therefore, there is a need for future trials that can compare the impact of these treatments.

In simple words, upon comparing Spravato and infusion, one can conclude that every option has its advantages. Therefore, the choice might be made depending on the response of a particular patient.

Spravato vs Infusion: Which is Better for What?

It has been established that when comparing Spravato and infusion, it is necessary to consider several important factors.

Spravato, as a nasal spray, is slightly more comfortable for those who do not want to go for intravenous therapy. It is useful for cases of depression that do not respond to other medications prescribed under the supervision of a doctor.

On the other hand, ketamine has more precise dosing in terms of infusions, and it is as effective for various other ailments like PTSD. The decision-making hinges on factors like the medical history, the treatment's effectiveness, cost and availability.

The Bottom Line

By now, you already know that Spravato, as well as ketamine infusions, show potential for the treatment of mental health conditions. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks. Therefore, it's best to consult with a professional. Expert staff can assess your unique needs and preferences and guide you on the most suitable option.

If you still need clarification, contact us for professional guidance.