Uncovering The Differences Between Ketamine And SPRAVATO® A Shadow Cast By The Death Of Friends Matthew Perry
January 26, 2024
The tragic passing of Friends actor Matthew Perry brought renewed awareness of ketamine, a substance connected to both legitimate healthcare use and recreational misuse.
In light of these news stories, it's vital to understand the main distinctions between Spravato®, the FDA-sanctioned drug for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), and ketamine, a frequently misused dissociative anesthetic that appears to have played a part in Mr. Perry's tragic death.
The details about Matthew Perry's ketamine use are not publicly disclosed, and out of respect for his privacy and that of his family, it's not right to question whether he was consuming it recreationally or for healthcare reasons.
However, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's report did conclusively identify "acute ketamine intoxication" as contributing to his passing, not specifying further details about his ketamine usage.
Going Past the Headlines: Unpacking the Distinctions Between Spravato and Ketamine
While both are derived from ketamine, Spravato and therapeutic or recreational ketamine differ significantly in how and where they are administered and the goals of use
Dosage and Administration:
- Spravato: FDA-sanctioned, precise, low doses taken via a nasal spray in a controlled medical environment under close supervision of licensed healthcare staff.
- Recreational Ketamine: Uncontrolled and unregulated dosages, typically self-administered outside of healthcare facilities.
Treatment Setting:
- Spravato: Safe and supportive medical environment with close monitoring during sessions.
- Recreational Ketamine: Self-administered, heightening the threat of severe complications.
Treatment Goals:
- Spravato: Used for specific mental health afflictions like treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
- Recreational Ketamine: Intoxication or altered states of consciousness.
Spravato: A Framework For Patient Safety
It's important to know that ketamine is a potent substance with both legitimate medical applications and risks of misuse. You should seek guidance from a healthcare professional if you are considering taking ketamine for any reason.
Approved by the FDA in 2019, Spravato's thorough approval included uncompromising regulations and a controlled distribution system allowing only select providers to ensure patient safety. Dissimilar to unregulated ketamine, Spravato treatment calls for Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) certification to ensure the highest standards of safety and quality of care for patients starting this groundbreaking new treatment.
Shielding Patients: Spravato's Framework Calls For Safe Administration
- Comprehensive Patient Screening: Patients undertake detailed evaluations for TRD to find out if Spravato is a suitable treatment choice and to uncover any potential risk factors.
- Direct Medical Monitoring: All Spravato doses are provided and monitored by a skilled medical specialist in a controlled environment.
- Ongoing Support: Patients receive comprehensive support and close monitoring for the duration of their treatment, including advice on side effects that can develop and strategies for managing them.
Moving Ahead: Getting Help Is Your First Step
If you or someone you care about is struggling with depression, getting professional assistance is vital. While high-profile headlines may raise some trepidation, Spravato treatment is established as a safe and regulated treatment, provided within a rigid framework to prioritize patient safety.
Discover Outpatient Spravato Treatment at The Counseling Center
Specialized healthcare providers at [[companyname1]] can assess your situation and find out if outpatient treatment with Spravato , or other approved depression treatments, are appropriate. Our facility is REMS-certified and delivers safe and effective Spravato treatment for TRD patients who have taken two or more antidepressants without success.
Here's how The Counseling Center prioritizes patient health:
- Convenient and Comfortable Therapy: Treatment occurs in an approved clinical setting with a period of supervision.
- Flexible Scheduling: Morning, evening, and weekend sessions will minimize disruption to daily life.
- Family and M.A.T. Programs: Providing care options for specific needs.
Praesum Healthcare is the parent operator of The Counseling Center and offers a comprehensive range of care across its continuum, including outpatient and inpatient programs, substance detox, mental health services, and medication-assisted treatment. Our skilled staff have experience with TRD, and our patients appreciate the use of Spravato to get relief from their depression symptoms:
Ready to Find A Solution For Depression?
Go beyond the celebrity news with helpful information. Let’s have a conversation about ketamine and vital medical care with treatment options that are safe and effective. Take charge of your situation. Contact The Counseling Center today at 866-850-5001 to arrange a consultation and find out how Spravato can help.
Author
Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Stephen Cooke brings over a decade of experience in international and American healthcare communications to Praesum. A prolific writer and published author, Stephen has dedicated his career to promoting health and recovery across various organizations.
