As of recent years, the medical field introduced a treatment called Spravato (esketamine) for treatment-resistant depression.
It marks first time the FDA approved a new method of treating depression.
Nevertheless, as with every new addition, Spravato’s side effects have been questioned.
A common question has been, “Does Spravato cause weight gain?”
To answer the question, we’ll explore the nature of Spravato, its side effects, and specifically, if it causes weight gain.
Spravato: The Basics
Let’s start by defining what Spravato is.
It’s the brand name for esketamine, which is a nasal spray used along with an oral antidepressant.
Traditional antidepressants might take weeks to work fully, but Spravato starts working within hours or a couple of days after its administration.
Spravato is believed to be a good alternative for people with severe, treatment-resistant depression because of this.
Does Spravato Work?
The answer is yes, it does.
The Spravato mechanism of action targets one’s glutamate system, especially NMDA receptors.
This makes it a good choice for patients who have been resistant to previous treatments and couldn’t find relief.
Research shows that patients receiving Spravato alongside an oral antidepressant experienced improvement in depression symptoms not seen in placebo-treated patients.
And more importantly, these improvements usually appeared within a day.
The effectiveness of Spravato, though, differs from person to person based on genetics, metabolism, and severity of depression.
How to Administer Spravato?
Spravato administration is done under professional supervision in a clinical setting as a nasal spray since it can cause sedation and disorientation.
We’ll walk you through the process.
- Appointment duration. Each appointment should take about two hours, which includes pre-dose observation, dosing, and monitoring post-dose.
- Pre-dosing. Patients’ blood pressure is checked before the drug is given.
- Dosing. The patient administers Spravato as a nasal spray under medical supervision — the dosage depends on the patient’s weight.
- Monitoring. Post-administration, patients remain in the clinic for two hours of observation until it’s safe for them to leave.
- Post-clinic. Patients should arrange transport home and avoid strenuous activities for the next day to avoid sedation.
Related: To learn more about Spravato, and how does Spravato work, read our blog – What Is Spravato and How Does Spravato Work?
Spravato’s Side Effects
Spravato might cause a few side effects.
These can include:
- Nausea.
- Dizziness.
- High blood pressure.
- Disorientation.
- Drowsiness.
- Headaches.
- Vertigo.
Learn more about Spravato’s side effects by visiting Medical News Today.
Mental health professionals carefully observe Spravato’s symptoms throughout the treatment for safety reasons.
Do talk about your medical history and current health with your doctor before your Spravato treatment, since that’s important.
The long-term effects and less common side effects continue to be examined through ongoing research.
The question at hand is if weight gain is a possible side effect.
Many people who use other antidepressants experience weight gain as an overlooked yet bothersome side effect.
But can the same be said for Spravato?
Does Spravato Cause Weight Gain?
No, there hasn’t been any evidence in scientific literature or ongoing research linking Spravato directly to weight gain.
Spravato has not been associated with weight gain according to clinical studies.
Weight gain was not listed as a common side effect in the FDA’s patient medication guide either.
The Effects of Depression on Weight
Unfortunately, depression and weight directly do have a complicated relationship, and we should think about it before drawing any conclusions.
Depression can change one’s eating behaviors, and sometimes even triggers binging or overeating as an unhealthy coping mechanism.
The types of antidepressants also cause changes in weight.
For example, some antidepressants can increase hunger and cause metabolic changes – which decodes into weight gain.
Alternatively, some antidepressants cause weight loss because of side effects like nausea or appetite loss.
If someone notices weight change while using Spravato, finding its cause – if it’s depression itself, the use of Spravato, an oral antidepressant, or something else – can be tricky.
Personal Differences
A patient’s weight changes also largely depend on their characteristics and the effects of the drug.
Some people gain weight for various reasons, including:
- Age.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Hydration status.
- Lifestyle.
- Diet.
- Fitness and daily movement.
- Concurrent medication use.
Therefore, it would be an oversimplification to define the situation purely as “Spravato equals weight gain”.
The reality often turns out to be more nuanced.
Proceeding with Caution
Unless comprehensive long-term studies confirm Spravato’s adverse effects, any observation of weight variation while taking it should be handled with caution.
Communicate with a mental health professional if you do notice any adverse effects or uncommon side effects.
Even though there’s no direct link between Spravato and weight gain yet, each body reacts differently.
It’s essential to maintain open and constructive dialogue with your healthcare provider about your concerns regarding Spravato weight gain or any other side effects of Spravato.
Final Thoughts
Weight gain is not a side effect of Spravato.
However, depression itself has multiple symptoms and different perosnal responses.
Physicians and patients should keep an eye on weight concerns during the treatment.
It is necessary for patients and clinicians to find the best balance between efficacy and side effects.
If you need more info on Spravato and how it might affect you, please contact us at Good Path Health Services.
We’d be happy to assist you with your questions.
FAQs
How much is Spravato without insurance?
The cost of Spravato without insurance will depend.
Usually it costs from hundreds to thousand of dollars for a dose.
It’s advised to check with a healthcare provider for pricing information.
What is the cost of Spravato nasal spray?
The cost of Spravato nasal spray differs.
It could range from a few hundred to a thousand dollars based on dosage.
How long does Spravato take to work?
Spravato generally starts to work and show its effects within hours of taking it.
Some people might see good results in one single day, in some people, the effects might fully show up in a few dys.
Is Spravato covered by insurance?
Yes, but coverage for Spravato depends on your insurance plan.
To get info on this, you can get in touch with us to inquire about Spravato insurance coverage.
Spravato vs Infusion: What are the differences?
Spravato and infusion therapy differ for the conditions they treat.
Nasal spray is how Spravato works.
Medication is administered intravenously (IV) in infusion therapy.
Spravato weight loss – is it possible?
No, weight loss is not associated with Spravato.
How can I get the Spravato patient enrollment form?
The Spravato patient enrollment form and the Spravato REMS patient monitoring form are usually available through your healthcare provider or the official Spravato website.
Is Spravato addictive?
No, Spravato isn’t considered addictive. Though it can be misused, and there’s a boxed warning.
The FDA has set certain guidelines to prevent its abuse.
What is the Spravato experience like?
The Spravato experience can be different for everyone.
Some people get to see it’s effects within hours, and some could see it within a day or two.
