TMS and Spravato® are FDA-approved treatment options for people with depression who haven’t found relief through traditional therapies. These treatments offer safe and effective alternatives by targeting the brain directly without the systemic side effects often linked to medications.
TMS uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate mood-regulating areas of the brain, while Spravato® (Esketamine) works by targeting NMDA receptors to rapidly change brain chemistry for symptom relief.
At Bristol Health, we specialize in providing both TMS and Spravato® using a personalized, patient-centered approach. We carefully evaluate your health profile, treatment history, and personal goals to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re choosing between TMS or Spravato® for depression or considering a combination of both, our team guides you toward the most effective path for lasting mental wellness.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific brain areas involved in mood regulation. It primarily targets the prefrontal cortex, which plays a key role in controlling emotions and decision-making.
During a TMS session, a specialized device is placed on the scalp to deliver gentle, targeted magnetic pulses to the targeted areas. These pulses help activate nerve cells and improve communication between brain regions, supporting more balanced brain activity.
Since the treatment targets the brain directly without involving drugs, it can be especially effective for people who have not found lasting relief from multiple antidepressant medications. It is also used to treat other mood disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, offering a safe, well-tolerated option for those seeking options beyond medication-based care.
Key benefits of TMS therapy include:
Spravato® is a prescription nasal spray that contains esketamine, a close relative of ketamine. It’s an FDA-approved option specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and for those experiencing major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation. Spravato® offers an option for people who haven’t responded well to traditional antidepressants.
Unlike standard antidepressants that can take weeks to show results, Spravato® works by rapidly modulating brain chemistry. It targets the NMDA receptors in the brain, which play a key role in regulating mood, learning, and memory, to alleviate depressive symptoms.
Key benefits of Spravato® include:
If you’re wondering if TMS or Spravato® may be right for your depression, we offer expert guidance to help you navigate your options and find the best path forward.
Understanding the difference between TMS and Spravato® is necessary to help you make an informed decision for your health history.
At Bristol Health, we take a personalized approach based on your health history, symptom severity, and personal goals to design a treatment plan for your condition.
TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain linked to mood regulation, particularly the prefrontal cortex. These magnetic pulses help improve communication between brain cells, supporting long-term changes in brain activity associated with improved mood.
In contrast, Spravato® (Esketamine) works by chemically modulating brain pathways, specifically targeting NMDA receptors involved in mood and cognition. This can lead to a rapid shift in brain chemistry and help to relieve severe depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts more quickly than traditional antidepressants.
TMS is delivered through a small device placed on the scalp during in-office sessions. Each session lasts about 30 to 40 minutes, and you remain fully awake and alert throughout treatment.
Spravato® is a nasal spray administered under medical supervision in a certified healthcare setting. After using the spray, you are monitored for at least two hours to ensure safety.
TMS typically requires 4 to 6 weeks of regular sessions, often 5 times per week during the initial phase. Improvements tend to build gradually as the brain adjusts over time.
Spravato® sessions usually start more frequently (twice weekly) and may taper to once weekly or less, depending on your progress.
TMS is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild headaches, scalp discomfort, or a light tapping sensation during treatment. These effects are usually temporary and tend to decrease as your body adjusts over the course of therapy.
Spravato® may cause side effects, such as dissociation, dizziness, nausea, elevated blood pressure, and sedation. To ensure your safety, Spravato® must be administered in a certified healthcare setting under medical supervision.
TMS is ideal for those seeking a long-term treatment with a strong safety record and steady, lasting improvements. It offers sustained benefits without the risk of dependency.
Spravato® can be a good option for those needing rapid relief from severe depression or acute suicidal thoughts. When administered under medical supervision, Spravato® has not been shown to cause long-term harm. Some patients experience ongoing mood improvement with continued use, particularly when combined with a comprehensive mental health plan.
At Bristol Health, we prioritize safety and responsible use, ensuring your Spravato® treatment is closely overseen to support both your immediate and long-term well-being.
TMS and Spravato® may also be used together as part of an integrated treatment plan to achieve more balanced and lasting results. One advantage of TMS is that it does not interfere with other therapies, making it safe to combine with Spravato® or additional treatments under medical supervision.
It’s often recommended to use TMS or Spravato® alongside other forms of care, such as psychotherapy or medication, for a more comprehensive approach.
Whether used simultaneously or sequentially, our team at Bristol Health focuses on finding the combination that provides the greatest relief and supports your long-term mental wellness.
Deciding between TMS and Spravato® is a personal choice. Both are evidence-based treatments with strong safety profiles, but the best option depends on individual needs and circumstances.
At Bristol Health, we begin with a comprehensive, individualized assessment of your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. Our experienced team helps you weigh the pros and cons of each treatment, factoring in your personal preferences, health profile, and financial considerations.
Whether you need TMS, Spravato®, or a combination of both, our goal is to design a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and supports lasting mental wellness.
Choosing the right treatment for depression is a deeply personal decision, and both TMS and Spravato® provide safe, effective paths to relief. At Bristol Health, we support your mental health and help you reclaim a brighter, more balanced life.
To learn more about how TMS therapy and Spravato® can help you, please call us at (801) 903-5903 or request an appointment online. Our compassionate team is here to help you take the first step toward improved mental health and well-being.
If you are struggling and need someone to talk to right now, the resources below provide free and confidential assistance 24/7:
Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
https://988lifeline.org/
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