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Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, especially when traditional treatments don’t provide adequate relief. However, a new and promising therapy has emerged – esketamine nasal spray. This innovative treatment may offer a more effective solution for individuals struggling with bipolar disorder.
What is Esketamine Nasal Spray?
Esketamine nasal spray is a new medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of depression in adults who have not responded to other antidepressant treatments. It belongs to a class of drugs called NMDA receptor antagonists and is a close chemical cousin of ketamine, a medication that has been used off-label for years to treat depression.
Esketamine nasal spray is administered under medical supervision in a doctor’s office or clinic. The nasal spray is self-administered, with patients typically receiving two sprays in each nostril twice a week for the first month and then once a week thereafter.
How Can Esketamine Nasal Spray Help Bipolar Disorder?
Esketamine nasal spray has shown promise in treating bipolar depression, a type of depression that affects individuals with bipolar disorder. A recent study found that esketamine nasal spray, when used in combination with traditional mood stabilizers, was more effective in reducing depressive symptoms than traditional mood stabilizers alone.
Additionally, esketamine nasal spray has a rapid onset of action, with patients experiencing a reduction in depressive symptoms within hours of the first dose. This is in contrast to traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks or even months to provide relief.
What Are the Risks of Esketamine Nasal Spray?
As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with esketamine nasal spray. Some of the most common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and disassociation. However, these side effects are typically mild and resolve quickly.
There is also a risk of abuse and dependence with esketamine nasal spray. As a result, it is only available through a restricted distribution program called the Spravato REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy).
How Can Nao Medical Help?
If you’re struggling with bipolar disorder and haven’t found relief with traditional treatments, esketamine nasal spray may be a promising option. At Nao Medical, we offer a range of mental health services, including esketamine nasal spray therapy. Our experienced psychiatrists will work with you to determine if this innovative therapy is right for you and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
FAQs
Q: Can esketamine nasal spray be used as a standalone treatment for bipolar disorder?
A: No, esketamine nasal spray is used in combination with traditional mood stabilizers for the treatment of bipolar depression.</
Q: How long does each treatment session with esketamine nasal spray last?
A: Treatment sessions typically last around 2 hours, including the time it takes for the medication to take effect and for patients to be monitored after the session.
Q: Is esketamine nasal spray covered by insurance?
A: Esketamine nasal spray is covered by some insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. At Nao Medical, we accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer affordable self-pay options for those without insurance.
Q: What should I expect during my first treatment session with esketamine nasal spray?
A: During your first treatment session, you will receive the esketamine nasal spray and be monitored for side effects for approximately 2 hours. After the session, you will need to have someone drive you home and avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for the rest of the day.
Book an Appointment at Nao Medical
If you’re interested in learning more about esketamine nasal spray therapy for bipolar disorder or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced psychiatrists, visit our appointment booking page or contact us today. We’re committed to providing high-quality, affordable care for our communities, and look forward to helping you on your journey to mental wellness.
