ESKETAMINE

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common, debilitating, and recurrent mental health disorder.  MDD is characterized by symptoms of persistent low mood, changes in appetite and sleep, fatigue, loss of motivation, interest or pleasure, or feelings of worthlessness.  It can also be associated with a substantial loss in productivity, quality of life, and increased mortality from suicide.  MDD has a significant global burden, with an estimated 300 million people affected and reported as the leading cause of disability of all of the mental illnesses worldwide.  Even with available therapies, a significant proportion of patients will not reach complete clinical remission, with approximately 10% to 30% not responding to multiple antidepressants.

 

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is the clinical term used to define this subpopulation of MDD patients that have not achieved optimal response to conventional therapy.  TRD presents an even greater burden, with an increased risk for subsequent relapses and suicide.  Patients with TRD are also twice as likely to be hospitalized, incurring additional medical costs.  Risk factors for TRD may include old age, high stress levels, concomitant psychiatric disorders, and a history of medication non-adherence.

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Esketamine, a novel antidepressant treatment, works in a completely different way than conventional depression medications.  It is related to ketamine, an anesthetic agent used during some surgeries.  Because of the powerful effects of this medication, special monitoring is needed. 

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If you are interested in learning more about esketamine, you can explore the Spravato website.