SPRAVATO for PTSD: A New Hope on PTSD Awareness Day

PTSD is a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events can range from military combat and natural disasters to serious accidents and personal assaults.

Individuals with PTSD often experience intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their trauma long after the event has ended.

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Flashbacks (feeling like the traumatic event is occurring again)
• Frequent, distressing thoughts about the traumatic event
• Difficulty sleeping
• Nightmares
• Feeling numb
• Feeling detached or alone
• Difficulty maintaining relationships
• Negative thoughts about oneself
• Self-destructive behaviors like increased substance use or reckless driving
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Irritability, angry outbursts, or other extreme or aggressive behavior
• Persistent guilt, worry, or sadness
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Headaches
• Stomach aches
• Hypervigilance or startling easily
• Avoidance of things related to the traumatic event (people, places, activities, etc.)
• Avoidance of thoughts or conversation about the event

Unfortunately, PTSD is more common than many realize. According to the National Center for PTSD, about 60% of men and 50% of women living in the United States will experience trauma at some point in their lives, and 1 out of 11 people will develop PTSD in their lifetime. For example, approximately 13 million people had PTSD in 2020.

Additionally, around one-third of individuals who experience severe trauma will develop PTSD. Among those diagnosed with PTSD, research finds 22.3% of them will fall into the category of severe symptoms.

However, the impact of PTSD extends beyond the individual. It can affect entire families, workplaces, and communities. Studies show that people with PTSD often struggle with maintaining relationships, holding jobs, and enjoying daily activities due to the condition's pervasive symptoms like avoidance, emotional numbing, and hyperarousal.

The prevalence of PTSD in America translates to millions of individuals dealing with the disorder's debilitating effects in a multitude of ways.

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is a groundbreaking nasal spray, administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider, designed to treat severe forms of depression and PTSD. Unlike traditional antidepressants that typically take weeks to show effects, SPRAVATO® works quickly, often providing relief within hours or days.

SPRAVATO® was developed by Johnson & Johnson. The FDA approved it in 2019 for use in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This approval came after rigorous clinical trials demonstrated its effectiveness in patients who had not responded to other forms of treatment.

Recognizing its potential, researchers continued to explore its benefits for other conditions, leading to its consideration for PTSD treatment.

Most traditional antidepressants work by increasing levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters over time. In contrast, SPRAVATO® targets the brain's glutamate system, specifically the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. By modulating these receptors, SPRAVATO® helps to rapidly restore balance in the brain's mood-regulating systems (which are significantly impacted in those living with PTSD).

Another key difference is the method of nasal administration, which allows for direct and rapid absorption. This delivery method, combined with its fast-acting nature, makes SPRAVATO® a valuable option for those in urgent need of relief from severe depression and PTSD symptoms.

SPRAVATO® is a valuable option for those who have exhausted other avenues, as it delivers an array of positive benefits:

• Fast Onset of Action: Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to show results, SPRAVATO® can provide symptom relief within hours or days
• Reduced Depressive Symptoms: Many individuals with PTSD also suffer from depression, and SPRAVATO® can often address these intersecting challenges.
• Sustained Relief: Many patients report significant improvements in their symptoms after just a few doses, with effects lasting for weeks.
• Hope for Treatment-Resistant PTSD: Traditional treatments do not work for everyone, and many patients find themselves cycling through different medications and therapies with little success. SPRAVATO® is often effective in cases where other treatments have failed.

While talk therapy and mental health medication remain a cornerstone of PTSD treatment, the addition of SPRAVATO® provides a powerful tool for those who have not found relief through conventional methods. It speaks to the heart of what many with PTSD desperately need: immediate relief and a path forward.

When considering SPRAVATO® for PTSD treatment, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects and the importance of proper monitoring during treatment.

Side Effects

SPRAVATO® can cause several side effects, most of which are mild to moderate and occur shortly after administration. Side effects may include, but are not limited to:

• Dizziness or spinning sensations
• Dissociation (a feeling of being disconnected from yourself or your surroundings)
• Sedation (feeling sleepy)
• Decreased energy
• Feeling drunk, happy, or excited
• Numbness
• Increased blood pressure
• Nausea or vomiting

These effects are usually temporary, but it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if they persist or worsen, as they can help you manage any new symptoms that arise.

Monitoring and Safety

Because of its potent effects, SPRAVATO® is administered in a certified healthcare setting under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider. During each session, your provider will monitor your vital signs and observe you for any adverse reactions. This controlled environment ensures immediate intervention if necessary and helps optimize the treatment's safety and effectiveness.

Potential Interactions

It is also important to consider potential interactions with other medications and lifestyle factors. Inform your healthcare provider of all medicines you are currently taking, as some may interact with SPRAVATO® and alter its effects. Your provider will evaluate any potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding substance use, can enhance the benefits of SPRAVATO® treatment.

PTSD Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the profound impact PTSD has on individuals and society. This awareness-raising is crucial for several reasons:

• It helps to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and encourages more people to seek the help they need.
• Increased understanding fosters empathy and support from those who might not have personal experience with PTSD.
• It improves public knowledge about the condition so that more people can recognize the symptoms of PTSD in themselves and others, prompting them to seek care.
• It can drive advancements in treatment and support services, ensuring that those affected by PTSD receive the best possible care.

Additionally, treatments like SPRAVATO® play a crucial role in the conversation about PTSD because it provides hope for those who have not found success with traditional therapies. It symbolizes the progress being made in the field of mental health and the potential for recovery and improved quality of life.

Hearing real-life experiences from those who have undergone SPRAVATO® treatment can provide invaluable insight for those considering this innovative PTSD treatment option or wanting to learn more about its positive impact.

Ultimately, PTSD Awareness Day is about fostering a community that understands and supports those with PTSD, advocating for continued advancements in treatment, and spreading hope that healing is possible. It's a day to remember that with the proper support and resources, individuals with PTSD can lead fulfilling lives.

In summary, SPRAVATO® offers a groundbreaking approach to treating PTSD, providing rapid symptom relief and hope for those who have struggled with traditional treatments. Its unique mechanism of action and fast-acting abilities make it a valuable option for those seeking effective and sustained relief from the debilitating effects of PTSD.

As we observe PTSD Awareness Day, let us spread awareness and support. A bit of understanding and empathy can make a significant difference in the lives of those living with PTSD. Together, we can build a community that supports healing and recovery, offering hope and new possibilities for a brighter future.

If you or someone you know struggles with symptoms of PTSD, SPRAVATO® may be right for you. At Psychiatry Treatment Centers, we have clinics across southern California (Hollywood and Beverly Grove) and southeast Georgia (Hinesville, Jesup, and Richmond Hill) that can offer the support you've been looking for.

Reach out to us today to learn how you can turn a page in the next chapter of your mental health journey. Our expert team is ready to provide you with compassionate, personalized care every step of the way.

Cited Sources:

Bahr, Rebecca et al. “Intranasal Esketamine (SpravatoTM) for Use in Treatment-Resistant Depression In Conjunction With an Oral Antidepressant.” P & T : a peer-reviewed journal for formulary management vol. 44,6 (2019): 340-375.

J. Gayle Beck, DeMond M. Grant, Joshua D. Clapp, Sarah A. Palyo, Understanding the interpersonal impact of trauma: Contributions of PTSD and depression, Journal of Anxiety Disorders, Volume 23, Issue 4, 2009, Pages 443-450, ISSN 0887-6185, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.janxdis.2008.09.001.

Kessler, Ronald C et al. “Prevalence, severity, and comorbidity of 12-month DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication.” Archives of general psychiatry vol. 62,6 (2005): 617-27. doi:10.1001/archpsyc.62.6.617