We’re pleased to announce that Pain Physicians of Wisconsin is now Pro Spine & Pain.
We’re pleased to announce that Pain Physicians of Wisconsin is now Pro Spine & Pain.
When a patient with major depressive disorder (depression) does not respond adequately to at least two different types of antidepressant medication or psychotherapy, they are considered treatment-resistant. Depression and chronic pain are closely linked. In fact, up to 40% of those with chronic pain experience depression.
Because of this, Pro Spine and Pain is offering a new treatment for depression. Spravato is a nasal spray medication that is FDA-approved for adults with treatment-resistant depression.
Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to work, Spravato often begins to improve symptoms much more quickly—sometimes within hours or days. This rapid action makes it a valuable option for people who haven’t found relief with other treatments. In addition, Spravato can be used alone or in combination with antidepressant medications.
Spravato works differently than traditional antidepressants like SSRIs or SNRIs. It targets a brain receptor called NMDA, which helps promote the growth of new connections between brain cells. This process, called neuroplasticity, may explain why Spravato can work so quickly to improve mood and reduce depression symptoms.
Spravato treatment occurs in phases. During the induction phase (weeks 1-4), the patient will receive Spravato twice per week. During the maintenance phase (weeks 5-8), the treatment is reduced to once per week. After that, treatment can be continued every two weeks or weekly, depending on the patient’s response.
Spravato must be administered in a healthcare setting under the supervision of a clinician. Patients are monitored for a period of at least two hours, with their blood pressure and breathing checked regularly during this time. Once the clinician determines the patient is stable, they may go home. However, patients should not drive or operate machinery until the next day after a restful sleep.
Side effects of Spravato treatment typically occur on the day of treatment and may include a feeling of dissociation, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, headache, feeling “drunk” and vertigo. Patients may also experience increased blood pressure. Serious side effects are rare and occur in less than 0.2% of sessions. Unlike many antidepressants, Spravato has a very low risk of sexual side effects.
For more information about Spravato, talk to your healthcare provider or contact us at (262) 297-7246.
