About esketamine hydrochloride
NMDA receptor antagonist antidepressant
Used for
- Treatment-resistant depression in adults, with an oral antidepressant.
- Depressive symptoms in adults with major depression and acute suicidal thoughts or actions, with an oral antidepressant.
Usual adult dose
Usually 56 mg initially, then 56 or 84 mg twice weekly; dosing and frequency are adjusted by treatment phase and response.
Common side effects
- Dissociation, dizziness, sleepiness, or feeling detached.
- Nausea, vomiting, or altered sense of taste.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Impaired attention or coordination.
Important warnings
- Given only under healthcare supervision in a certified clinic; patients are monitored after each dose.
- Can cause sedation, dissociation, impaired judgment, and breathing problems; driving is restricted until the next day after restful sleep.
- Risk of misuse and dependence; not for unsupervised use.
- Avoid with aneurysmal vascular disease, arteriovenous malformation, or history of bleeding in the brain.
Pregnancy
May harm the fetus based on animal studies. Pregnancy use is generally avoided; effective contraception is recommended during treatment and for six weeks afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for six weeks after the final dose.
Interactions
- Central nervous system depressants, including opioids and alcohol, may increase sedation and breathing risks.
- Psychostimulants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors may increase blood pressure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.