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Ketamine Therapy and Spravato (Esketamine) Treatment for Depression Relief

Understanding ketamine and esketamine treatments

What is ketamine?

Ketamine was developed in the 1960s as an anesthetic to help people sleep before surgery. While high doses induce sleep, lower doses actually stimulate the brain. This unique effect led researchers in the late 1990s and early 2000s to explore low-dose ketamine as a novel antidepressant, given its potential to promote brain cell activity and change.

How does ketamine therapy work?

At low doses, ketamine stimulates brain cells much like exercise stimulates muscles. This leads to the release of a growth hormone called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). BDNF encourages the growth of new connections between brain cells, known as synapses, which may be reduced in cases of treatment-resistant depression. By promoting synapse growth, ketamine and Spravato (esketamine) can help reverse some brain changes associated with depression.

These medications also affect the Default Mode Network (DMN) in the brain—a circuit involved in processing the world around us, storing personal memories, reflecting on emotions, and social interactions. In depression and other psychiatric conditions, the DMN may function differently. After ketamine or Spravato (esketamine) administration, the DMN is temporarily disrupted, potentially altering thought processes. As the medication clears from the system over several hours, research suggests the DMN returns to healthier functioning.

Additionally, ketamine interacts with opioid receptors in the brain—the same receptors that respond to endorphins and create a "runner's high"—which can elevate mood.

The therapeutic experience of ketamine and Spravato (esketamine)

Beyond biological effects, ketamine and Spravato (esketamine) can open doors to new ways of thinking and perceiving. During treatment, you may experience a sense of warmth and relaxation, with a heightened awareness of the present moment. Many people describe feeling a gentle detachment from everyday concerns, allowing for profound insights and a fresh perspective on life.

Some individuals report seeing calming patterns or colors, and sounds may become more vivid and soothing. This serene state can help you reconnect with yourself and explore positive emotions and thoughts. The experience typically lasts between 30 to 120 minutes, providing a peaceful interlude that can contribute to your healing journey.

We are dedicated to making your treatment as comfortable and uplifting as possible. Our tranquil setting is designed to support your well-being. We recommend wearing cozy clothing and bringing headphones to enjoy calming music during your session.

Ketamine vs. Spravato (esketamine)

Ketamine consists of two mirror-image molecules, similar to how your left and right hands are mirror images. Spravato (esketamine) is one of these molecules. Due to differences in absorption:

Spravato (Esketamine)

Ketamine

FDA-approval

•

Insurance coverage

Full coverage by most major plans

Parts can

Conditions treated

FDA-Approved for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder

Off-label for depression, anxiety, ptsd, and others

Efficacy

Similar rates of response and remission
* source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36724113/

Administration route

Intranasal spray

Intravenous infusion, intramuscular injection, oral lozenge, or intranasal spray

Ketamine is typically administered intravenously or via intramuscular injection to ensure proper dosing, as it is not well-absorbed orally or through the skin.
Spravato (esketamine) can be absorbed through nasal tissues, allowing it to be delivered as a nasal spray. It is FDA-approved for treating depression and suicidality and is covered by most insurance plans.

Ketamine vs. Spravato (esketamine)

Ketamine consists of two mirror-image molecules, similar to how your left and right hands are mirror images. Spravato (esketamine) is one of these molecules. Due to differences in absorption:

Ketamine is typically administered intravenously or via intramuscular injection to ensure proper dosing, as it is not well-absorbed orally or through the skin.
Spravato (esketamine) can be absorbed through nasal tissues, allowing it to be delivered as a nasal spray. It is FDA-approved for treating depression and suicidality and is covered by most insurance plans.

What conditions can they treat?

Due to regulatory differences, ketamine and Spravato (esketamine) are used for various conditions:

Spravato (esketamine) is approved for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and suicidality related to depression is typically administered intravenously or via intramuscular injection to ensure proper dosing, as it is not well-absorbed orally or through the skin.
Ketamine is used (off-label) to treat depression (from major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety.

VIP experience from the Lumin Health team of experts in ketamine treatment

The Lumin Health medical team

Our team of experts includes board-certified and Harvard-trained clinicians dedicated to your mental well-being. As specialists in Spravato (esketamine) and ketamine therapy, we provide safe, effective care with rigorous protocols and personalized treatment plans. Lumin Health also works closely with your existing care providers to ensure seamless, comprehensive support.

The Lumin Health concierge team

Our caring concierge team is here to make every step of your journey simple and stress-free. We handle all insurance coordination and scheduling, and our team would be grateful to answer your questions about ketamine and Spravato, and offering personalized assistance, we handle the details so you can focus on healing. Our goal at Lumin Health is to provide unwavering support whenever you need it.