Patient Experience with Intranasal Esketamine in Treatment-Resistant Depression: Insights from a Multicentric Italian Study (REAL-ESKperience)

Di Nicola M.;Pepe M.;d'Andrea G.;Marcelli I.;Pettorruso M.;Andriola I.;Barlati S.;Carminati M.;Cattaneo C. I.;Clerici M.;De Berardis D.;De Filippis S.;Dell'Osso B.;Di Lorenzo G.;Maina G.;Manchia M.

Writing – Review & Editing

;Marcatili M.;Martiadis V.;Niolu C.;Petralia A.;Rosso G.;Serafini G.;Signorelli M. S.;Vannucchi T.;Vismara M.;Zanardi R.;Vita A.;Sani G.;Martinotti G.

2025-01-01

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Abstract

Background. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a prevalent, high-burden disorder. Esketamine nasal spray (ESK-NS) has been approved for, T.R.D.; and efficacy has been observed in both clinical trials and real-world studies. However, observations integrating patients’ perspective on this treatment are limited. This multicentric Italian study explored experiences with ESK-NS in TRD patients, focusing on perceived therapeutic effects and overall satisfaction. Methods. A self-report survey was administered to 236 outpatients with TRD (55.1% females, 54.1 ± 14.1 years) treated with ESK-NS for at least three consecutive months within standard clinical care. Based on satisfaction levels, participants were classified as “unsatisfied” (10.2%), “partially satisfied” (19.1%), “satisfied” (44.4%), or “very satisfied” (26.3%), and compared for sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and feedback on perceived benefits. Artificial intelligence (OpenAI) served to categorize responses to an open-ended question. Results. Enhanced quality of life was reported by 88.4% of participants. Significant differences emerged in earliest self-perceived benefits, most relevant effects, and impact on global functioning across groups. Specifically, “very satisfied” patients described the following: early improvements in depressed mood, suicidal thoughts, and restlessness; decreased suicidal thoughts among the most significant effects; and functional gains across all domains. OpenAI identified experiences of personal growth and rediscovery and a desire for tailored settings and approaches as recurring topics. Conclusions. Most patients reported a positive perception of ESK-NS treatment. The most satisfied participants highlighted significant benefits to depressed mood, suicidal thoughts, and overall functioning. Patient-reported experiences offer insights into different psychopathological dimensions, including functional outcomes and quality of life. Integrating these perspectives into clinical practice might assist treatment personalization, improving patients’ adherence and satisfaction.