There is no shortage of news articles outlining the increase in depression and anxiety across the US with the COVID pandemic and social distancing guidelines. Even before the pandemic, America has been in the throes of a suicide crisis, with the suicide rate consistently rising over the last two decades.[1] There have been limited pharmaceutical innovations to treat depression since the initial release of Prozac in the late 1980s.
Recently, Spravato®, a nasal spray used to treat depression that was originally approved in March 2019 is again making headlines across the mental health field. The information below provides a quick overview about this drug and how it can affect your plan and your members.
What is Spravato and why is it back in the news?
A new, but controversial, FDA approval
What does this mean for your plan and members?
Reach out for recommendations from our experts.
[1] https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-08-nasal-suicidal-people.html
[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/janssen-announces-us-fda-approval-of-spravato-esketamine-ciii-nasal-spray-to-treat-depressive-symptoms-in-adults-with-major-depressive-disorder-with-acute-suicidal-ideation-or-behavior-301104437.html
[3] https://www.thepharmaletter.com/in-brief/brief-fda-approves-new-use-for-spravato
[4] https://theprint.in/health/us-fda-approves-jjs-quick-acting-nasal-spray-to-treat-suicidal-people/474022/