Looking For Inspiration? Look Up Latest Depression Treatments
Latest Depression Treatments
If your depression doesn't improve by taking antidepressants or psychotherapy new medications that work quickly may be able to treat depression that is resistant to treatment.
SSRIs are the most popular and well-known antidepressants. They work by altering the way that the brain processes serotonin as a chemical messenger.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is also referred to as cognitive behavioral therapy, assists you in changing negative thoughts and behavior such as hopelessness. The NHS offers 8 to 16 sessions.
1. Esketamine
In March 2019, the FDA approved a new nasal spray for depression, called esketamine. (Brand name Spravato). It is derived from the anesthetic, the ketamine. This has been shown to be effective in cases of severe depression. The nasal spray can be used alongside an oral antidepressant to combat depression that has not responded to standard medications. In one study 70% of patients with depression that was resistant to treatment received this medication were able to respond well, which is a significantly higher response rate than just taking an oral antidepressant.
Esketamine is different from traditional antidepressants. It increases the amount of neurotransmitters that transmit messages between brain cells. The results are not immediate. Patients usually feel better after a few days, but the effects last longer than SSRIs and SNRIs.
Researchers believe that esketamine reduces symptoms of depression by strengthening the connections between brain cells. In animal studies, esketamine reversed the breakdown of these connections that can occur during depression and stress. Additionally, it appears to boost the growth of neurons that can help to reduce suicidal ideas and feelings.
Another reason esketamine stands out from other antidepressants is the fact that it is administered via an nasal spray that allows it to get into the bloodstream more quickly than a pill or oral medication would. It has been proven to reduce depression symptoms within hours, and in some people the effects are nearly instantaneous.
A recent study that followed patients for 16 weeks found that not all patients who started treatment with esketamine had reached the remission phase. This is a bit disappointing, but not unexpected, according Dr. Amit Anand, an expert on ketamine but not involved in the study.
At present, esketamine is only available through an experimental clinical trial or private practice. It is not considered to be a first-line treatment option for depression and is typically prescribed when SSRIs or SNRIs haven't worked for a person with treatment-resistant depression. The doctor will determine if the condition is resistant to treatment, and then determine whether esketamine might be beneficial.
2. TMS
TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate neurons in the brain. It is noninvasive, doesn't require anesthesia or surgery and has been proven to improve depression in people who don't respond to psychotherapy or medication. types of therapy for depression is also used to treat the disorder of obsessive compulsiveness and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
For depression, TMS therapy is typically given in a series of 36 daily sessions spread over six weeks. The magnetic pulses are similar to pinpricks that are placed on the scalp, and may be a little difficult to get used to. After an appointment, patients can return to work or go home. Based on the type of stimulation used the session TMS session can last between 3.5 and 20 minutes.
Researchers believe that rTMS can alter the way that neurons communicate. This process, known as neuroplasticity allows the brain form new connections and to change its function.
TMS is FDA approved to treat depression in cases when other treatments like medications and talk therapy have failed. It has also been proven to be effective in treating tinnitus and OCD. Scientists are also exploring the possibility of using it to treat Parkinson's and anxiety.
Although a number of different studies have shown that TMS can improve depression, not everyone who receives the treatment benefits. It is essential to undergo a thorough psychiatric and medical evaluation prior to beginning this treatment. TMS is not a good option in the event of a history or certain medications.
A visit to your doctor could be beneficial if you are struggling with depression but not seeing any benefits from the treatment you are currently receiving. You could be eligible to participate in the TMS trial or other forms of neurostimulation. However, you need to first try several antidepressants before your insurance will cover the cost. If you are looking to learn more about these life-changing treatments, call us today for a consultation. Our experts will assist you through the process of the decision of whether TMS treatment is right for you.
3. Deep brain stimulation
A non-invasive therapy that rewires the brain's circuitry could be effective in just one week for people with treatment resistant depression. Researchers have devised new methods that allow them to deliver high-dose magnetic impulses to the brain in a shorter time and on a schedule that is more manageable for patients.
Stanford neuromodulation therapy, now available in the Advanced Psychiatric Therapeutics Clinic at the UC Davis Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, uses MRI images to guide electrodes to send magnetic impulses to specific brain regions. In a recent study, Mitra and Raichle observed that in three-quarters (75%) of patients who suffer from depression, the typical flow of neural activity from the anterior cingulate cortex and the anterior insula was interrupted. SNT returned the flow to normal within a few days, coinciding perfectly with the easing of their depression.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS), an invasive procedure, can cause similar effects in some patients. After several tests to determine the most appropriate placement, neurosurgeons implant one or more wires, referred to as leads, inside the brain. The leads are connected to a neurostimulator implanted under the collarbone, which appears to be a heart-pacemaker. The device provides an ongoing electric current through the leads. This alters the brain’s natural circuitry, reducing depression symptoms.
Certain psychotherapy treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal therapy can also help with depression symptoms. Psychotherapy can take place in a group setting or in one-on-one sessions with a mental health professional. Some therapists also offer the option of telehealth services.
Antidepressants remain a cornerstone of treatment for depression. However, in recent years there have been some remarkable advances in how quickly these medications can work to lift depressive symptoms. Newer drugs, such as gepirone (Exxua), esketamine (Spravato), brexanolone (Zulresso) and dextromethorphan-bupropion (Auvelity), all have been shown to work faster than older antidepressants.
Other therapies, such as electroconvulsive treatment (ECT) or repetitive transcranial magnet stimulation (rTMS) make use of magnetic or electric stimuli to stimulate the brain. These are more complex procedures that require the supervision of a physician. In certain instances they may cause seizures or other serious adverse side effects.
4. Light therapy
Bright light therapy, which involves working or sitting in front of a bright artificial light source, has been known for many years to treat major depression disorder through seasonal patterns (SAD). Research has shown that bright light therapy can help reduce symptoms like fatigue and sadness by improving mood and controlling circadian rhythm patterns. It also aids those who suffer with depression that is not a continuous one.
Light therapy mimics sunlight, which is an essential component of a biological clock called suprachiasmatic (SCN). The SCN is linked to mood, and light therapy can rewire misaligned circadian rhythm patterns which can cause depression. Light therapy can also lower the production of melatonin and improve the function of neurotransmitters.
Some doctors are also using light therapy to treat a less severe kind of depression called winter blues, which is similar to SAD but is less common and only happens in the months when there is the least amount of daylight. They recommend sitting in the light therapy box every morning for 30 minutes while awake to get the most benefit. Light therapy results are seen in one week, unlike antidepressants that can take weeks to kick in and may trigger negative side effects, such as nausea or weight gain. It is also suitable for pregnant women and older adults.
Researchers advise against using light therapy under the supervision of an expert in mental health or psychiatrist, because it may cause manic episodes in those with bipolar disorders. Some people may feel tired in the first week because light therapy can alter their sleep-wake patterns.
PCPs need to be aware of any new treatments that have been approved by FDA. However, they shouldn't ignore the tried-and-true techniques like antidepressants or cognitive behavioral therapy. "The quest for more effective and innovative treatments is exciting, but we should continue to prioritize the best-established therapies," Dr. Hellerstein tells Healio. He says PCPs need to educate their patients about the benefits of new treatments and aid them in sticking with their treatment plans. This could include arranging transportation to the doctor's appointment, or setting up reminders for patients to take their medications and attend therapy sessions.