Esketamine: A Fast-Acting Treatment for Depression, Explained (Hough, FDA, 2019)

Introduction:
In 2019, the FDA approved esketamine, a nasal spray developed for people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This report by Dr. David Hough outlines its development, safety, and effectiveness. It highlights how esketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants and why it’s a significant step forward in treating depression.

Key Points for Patients:

  1. What is Esketamine?
    • Esketamine is a medication designed for adults who haven’t responded to at least two different antidepressants.
    • It’s used alongside oral antidepressants and provides relief within hours, much faster than standard treatments.
  2. How Does It Work?
    • Unlike traditional antidepressants, esketamine targets a chemical system in the brain called glutamate, which helps restore brain function and improve mood.
  3. Safety and Side Effects:
    • Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and a temporary feeling of disconnection. These effects usually pass within a few hours.
    • Patients must take the medication in a clinic under supervision to ensure safety.
  4. FDA’s Approval Process:
    • The FDA carefully reviewed clinical trials, which showed that esketamine reduced depression symptoms significantly, especially for patients at risk of suicide.

The VitalPoint for Patients:
Esketamine offers new hope for people living with severe depression. While it’s not for everyone, it can be life-changing for those who have tried other treatments without success. Talk to your doctor to see if this option might be right for you.

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