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Understanding The Differences Between Ketamine And SPRAVATO® Near Fair Lawn Brought To Light By The Death Of Friends Matthew Perry

January 26, 2024

The tragic death of Friends actor Matthew Perry brought renewed attention to ketamine, a medication connected to both legitimate healthcare use and recreational misuse.

In the wake of these news reports, it's vital to be aware of the main differences between Spravato®, the FDA-approved nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), and ketamine, an often misused substance that appears to have played a role in Mr. Perry's passing.

The circumstances surrounding Matthew Perry's ketamine use are not known publicly, and out of respect for his privacy and that of his family, it's not suitable to postulate on whether he was consuming it recreationally or for healthcare reasons.

However, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's report did identify "acute ketamine intoxication" as a contributing factor in his death, not specifying the source or context about his ketamine use.

Getting Past the Headlines: Uncovering the Differences Between Spravato and Ketamine

While both are derivatives of ketamine, Spravato and therapeutic or recreational ketamine are considerably different in how and where they are administered and the objectives of use

Dosage and Administration:

  • Spravato: FDA-authorized, low-level doses taken via a nasal spray in a structured medical setting under qualified healthcare supervision.
  • Recreational Ketamine: Uncontrolled and unregulated dosages, usually taken outside of medical settings.

Treatment Setting:

  • Spravato: Structured and safe healthcare environment with continual monitoring during treatment sessions.
  • Recreational Ketamine: Self-administered, elevating the danger of severe complications.

Treatment Goals:

  • Spravato: Specifically designed for mental health conditions like treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
  • Recreational Ketamine: Altering of consciousness and intoxication.

Spravato: A Blueprint For Patient Safety

It's wise to note that ketamine is a powerful substance with both legitimate medical applications and the threat of misuse. You must seek professional guidance if you are thinking about taking ketamine for any purpose.

Approved by the FDA in 2019, Spravato's thorough approval process included strict guardrails and a controlled distribution network permitting only certain providers to ensure patient safety. In contrast to recreational ketamine, Spravato treatment requires Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) certification to ensure patients are protected and obtain the top level of care for this new treatment.

Protecting Patients: Spravato's Design Demands Safe Administration

  • Comprehensive Patient Screening: Patients undertake comprehensive assessments for TRD near Fair Lawn to see if Spravato is a suitable treatment alternative and to document any possible risk factors.
  • Direct Medical Observation: All Spravato doses are dispensed and observed by a qualified medical specialist in a regulated setting.
  • Continual Support: Patients get ongoing support and professional monitoring throughout their treatment experience, including education on potential side effects and how to manage them.

Moving Forward: Seeking Help Is The First Step

If you or someone close to you is grappling with depression, seeking professional help is crucial. While high-profile headlines may cause some concerns, Spravato treatment is a safe and regulated treatment, offered within a strict framework to emphasize patient safety.

Get Outpatient Spravato Treatment at The Counseling Center at Fair Lawn

Qualified healthcare professionals at [[companyname1]] can evaluate your situation and determine if outpatient treatment with Spravato near Fair Lawn, or other established depression treatments, are appropriate. Our facility is REMS-certified and offers effective and safe Spravato treatment for patients with TRD who have tried two or more antidepressants without a long-term reduction in symptoms.

Here's how The Counseling Center puts an emphasis on patient health:

  • Professional and comfortable Therapy: Delivery in an approved clinical setting with a period of supervision.
  • Appointments to fit your schedule: Morning, evening, and weekend appointments near Fair Lawn will will suit your active life.
  • Family and Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs: Offering care options for diverse needs.

Praesum Healthcare is the founder of The Counseling Center at Fair Lawn and offers a full range of services across its continuum, including outpatient and inpatient programs, alcohol and drug detox, mental health options, and medication-assisted treatment. Our professional staff often see TRD, and our patients appreciate the use of Spravato to get relief from their depression symptoms:

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Would You Like to Break Free From Depression?

Go beyond the celebrity buzz with real information. Let’s converse about ketamine and necessary depression care with treatment options that are safe and effective. Take the first step. Reach out to The Counseling Center at Fair Lawn today at 201-389-5326 to arrange a consultation and find out how Spravato can benefit you.