Depression Treatment With Nasal Spray

For some people with severe depression, the drugs available to date are not effective. A new nasal spray should now help these patients.

Severe depression is one of the most common mental illnesses worldwide – almost 300 million people are affected. But even today, not everyone can be helped: According to experts, about one third of all patients are considered resistant to treatment. This means that the antidepressants available to date are not effective. This should now change – with the help of a simple nasal spray.

A study proves effectiveness

This nasal spray bears the product name Spravato and contains the active ingredient esketamine. This is an anaesthetic whose mechanisms of action are said to increase the chances of recovery from depression, according to manufacturers Johnson and Johnson. A study has shown that the active substance, when applied twice a week, relieves depression in patients with acute suicidal tendencies within a few hours. In addition, the nasal spray is expected to have a much faster effect than previous antidepressants, which only start to work after four to six weeks.

Not without side effects

The manufacturer points out that the nasal spray can have various side effects. Among other things, it can lead to high blood pressure, dizziness and a changed perception. Nevertheless, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) already approves the use of the spray for treatment-resistant depression and severe depression with suicide risk. A decision on whether the nasal spray will be approved in America is expected in March – and an application has already been submitted to the European Medicines Agency.

Am I just in a low mood or am I already depressed?

Unlike a low mood, a depression is permanent and does not disappear on its own over time – it must be treated professionally. Patients suffering from depression suffer mainly from the following symptoms:

• Persistent deep depression for at least two weeks
• Feeling of inner emptiness, no emotions like joy are felt anymore, even with positive events
• Sense of continued hopelessness
• Interest in hobbies and social contacts disappears
• Avolition
• Constant physical and mental exhaustion
• Tiredness

In addition, patients often suffer from strong self-doubt, feelings of guilt and concentration problems. If you experience similar symptoms over a longer period of time, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible – the sooner a depression is detected and treated, the greater the chances of success.