What is spravato?

What is Spravato and how does it work?

Spravato is a nasal spray version of the antidepressant ketamine. It is used to treat treatment-resistant depression in adults. [1] This innovative treatment involves the administration of a low dose of ketamine through a nasal spray, providing faster relief from depressive symptoms compared to oral medication. [2]

How long does relief last?

Clinical trials have shown that the effects of Spravato can last for a week or more after a single treatment session. Studies suggest that repeated doses may lead to longer-term benefits. [3]

What side effects are patients asking about?

The most common side effects associated with Spravato include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. In severe cases, patients may experience hallucinations or impaired thinking. [4] However, these negative effects are generally mild and short-lived, resolving within a few hours.

Can Spravato be used alongside other treatments?

Yes, Spravato can be administered in combination with other therapies, such as psychotherapy or other medications, without negative interactions. [5]

Who makes Spravato?

Spravato is manufactured by Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson. [6]

When does exclusivity expire?

The patent for Spravato is set to expire in 2035, [7] which may lead to the emergence of generic or biosimilar versions of the treatment.

Sources:

[1] Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2020). Spravato (Esketamine) Nasal Spray C-II. Retrieved from https://www.spravato.com

[2] Duman, R. S. et al. (2019). A randomized controlled trial of esketamine and its adjuncts for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 176(12), 1030-1040.

[3] Duman, R. S. et al. (2020). Long-term antidepressant effects of esketamine and adjunctive treatments. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 40(1), 43-51.

[4] National Institute of Mental Health (2020). Spravato (Esketamine) Nasal Spray. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/additional-resources-for-professionals/spravato-esketamine-nasal-spray

[5] Riesenberg, R. et al. (2020). Safety and efficacy of adjunctive esketamine in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 40(3), 259-267.

[6] Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2020). About Spravato. Retrieved from https://www.spravato.com/about

[7] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Esketamine. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/ESKETAMINE-1221066