Introduction:
In 2019, a team of experts published an article in The New England Journal of Medicine highlighting the significance of esketamine, a new nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This medication is a milestone as it belongs to an entirely new class of antidepressants, offering rapid relief for those who struggle to find effective treatment.
Key Points for Patients:
- What Makes Esketamine Special?
- Esketamine is the first FDA-approved antidepressant in decades that works differently from traditional medications.
- It’s for people with TRD—those who haven’t responded to at least two other antidepressants.
- How Does It Work?
- Most antidepressants adjust serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine levels. Esketamine targets a brain chemical called glutamate, crucial for learning and mood.
- Rapid Relief:
- Unlike typical antidepressants, which can take weeks to work, esketamine often provides relief within hours.
- Safety Measures and Side Effects:
- Esketamine must be taken in a clinic under medical supervision to ensure safety.
- Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and a temporary sense of disconnection.
The VitalPoint for Patients:
Esketamine is an exciting option for people who’ve tried everything else for depression. It’s fast-acting and provides hope for individuals with severe, treatment-resistant symptoms. Talk to your doctor to learn if it might help you.
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