1705 results for "Ketamine"
Efficacy of single and repeated ketamine administration for suicidal ideation in adults with psychiatric disorders: A meta-analysis.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – January 10, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking meta-analysis reveals ketamine's powerful potential in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts. Analyzing data from nearly 4,000 participants across 49 clinical trials, researchers found that even a single dose significantly decreased suicidal ideation within 4 hours. Peak effectiveness occurred at 24 hours, with benefits lasting up to a month. Multiple doses showed similar success, offering hope for those needing urgent mental health intervention.
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated rapid-onset anti-suicidal ideation effects of ketamine. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and duration of...
Ketamine reverses chronic corticosterone-induced behavioral deficits and hippocampal synaptic dysfunction by regulating eIF4E/BDNF signaling.
Neuropharmacology – December 15, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable ability to rapidly treat depression may work through a previously unknown mechanism in the brain. New findings show that this medication reverses depression-like behaviors by activating specific protein signals in the hippocampus. When mice were exposed to stress hormone Corticosterone, they developed depression symptoms. Ketamine treatment fixed this by boosting BDNF, a crucial brain-growth protein, through a molecular pathway called eIF4E.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating illness with a high global burden. While Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antago...
Comparing the hemodynamic effects of ketamine versus fentanyl bolus in patients with septic shock: a randomized controlled trial.
Journal of anesthesia – December 01, 2024
Summary
In critical care settings, choosing the right sedation medication can significantly impact patient outcomes. Ketamine showed remarkable benefits over fentanyl in patients with septic shock, increasing cardiac output by 71% compared to a 31% decrease with fentanyl. The research tracked vital signs in mechanically ventilated patients, revealing ketamine's superior ability to maintain stable blood pressure and heart function during sedation.
Abstract
Ketamine and fentanyl are commonly used for sedation and induction of anesthesia in critically ill patients. This study aimed to compare the hemody...
Comparing the adverse effects of ketamine and esketamine between genders using FAERS data.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Women and men experience notably different side effects from ketamine and esketamine treatments. Analysis of FDA adverse drug events revealed that men were more likely to experience physical reactions like urinary retention and hypertension with esketamine, while women showed different patterns. Signal mining of ketamine data found gender differences in toxicity responses and cardiovascular effects.
Abstract
Ketamine was developed as an anesthetic. Esketamine is the isolated S-enantiomer of racemic ketamine. They provide new avenues for the treatment of...
Research trends and hotspots of ketamine from 2014 to 2023: a bibliometric analysis.
Frontiers in neuroscience – January 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's evolution from anesthesia medication to breakthrough depression treatment has sparked unprecedented research interest. Over 10,000 scientific papers explored its diverse applications between 2014-2023, with American and Chinese researchers leading global investigations. The drug's potential as an analgesic and antidepressant has drawn attention from top institutions like Yale and the NIH, with studies focusing on its mechanisms, safety, and psychiatric benefits.
Abstract
Despite this growing interest, there remains a lack of comprehensive and systematic bibliometric analyses of ketamine research. This study aimed to...
Adolescent administration of ketamine impairs excitatory synapse formation onto parvalbumin-positive GABAergic interneurons in mouse prefrontal cortex.
Biochemical and biophysical research communications – September 17, 2024
Summary
Ketamine exposure during adolescence can permanently alter brain development, particularly affecting crucial connections in the prefrontal cortex. Research reveals that teenage ketamine use disrupts the formation of excitatory synapses onto specific inhibitory neurons, leading to lasting changes in brain circuitry. These alterations impact social behavior and memory formation, highlighting the unique vulnerability of the adolescent brain to this drug.
Abstract
Ketamine, an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, induces deficits in cognition and information processing following chronic abuse. Ado...
Ketamine and fluoxetine exert similar actions on prelimbic and infralimbic responsivity to lateral septal nucleus stimulation in Wistar rats.
Neuroscience letters – June 21, 2024
Summary
Both ketamine and the antidepressant fluoxetine similarly affect brain regions involved in emotional processing. Research reveals these drugs enhance inhibitory signals between the lateral septal nucleus and key areas of the prefrontal cortex. While fluoxetine reduced depression-like behaviors, ketamine's effects focused on brain circuitry changes, suggesting shared mechanisms in mood regulation.
Abstract
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been proposed to be a useful alternative in cases of a poor response to other treatments in patients...
Subcutaneous ketamine reduces suicide risk and improves functioning in depression: A proof-of-concept study.
Psychiatry research – July 01, 2024
Summary
A breakthrough in mental health treatment shows that small doses of ketamine injected under the skin can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts and depression. In this groundbreaking approach, patients received carefully monitored doses, with most showing significant improvement after eight sessions. The C-SSRS assessment tool confirmed dramatic decreases in suicidal ideation, while depression symptoms notably improved. This well-tolerated treatment could offer new hope for those battling severe depression and thoughts of suicide.
Abstract
This investigation explores the efficacy of subcutaneous ketamine for mitigating depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation, addressing a crucial ne...
Ketamine and Psilocybin Differentially Impact Sensory Learning During the Mismatch Negativity
OpenAlex – November 07, 2025
Summary
Ketamine profoundly impacts how the brain processes sensory information, significantly reducing its precision in frontal areas compared to placebo between 207 and 316 milliseconds. Psilocybin, however, showed no such effect. Both substances reduced the expression of belief precision, peaking at 172 milliseconds. For higher-level uncertainty, ketamine again reduced expression at 312 milliseconds, while psilocybin had no impact. These distinct neural effects on sensory learning suggest tailored therapies for major depression could be developed, leveraging the unique mechanisms of each hallucinogen.
Abstract
Abstract Ketamine and psilocybin show potential as therapies for various mental illnesses, including major depressive disorder. However, further in...
Treatment-resistant major depression: Systematic review of comparative efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy and ketamine
Physiology International – January 30, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) significantly boosts remission rates for Major Depressive Disorder, surpassing ketamine's rapid-onset benefits. A systematic review of seven randomized clinical trials confirms both options are safe in the short term. While ketamine offers quick relief, ECT consistently achieves superior remission. Future progress hinges on understanding how individual patient traits influence treatment response, alongside comprehensive, long-term comparative studies to fully assess the safety and efficacy of these powerful therapies.
Abstract
AbstractDepression is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a condition characterized mostly by low or depr...
Basic aspects of ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression - a review paper
Quality in Sport – July 28, 2024
Summary
Up to 60% of major depression cases resist standard treatments, but ketamine offers a rapid, effective alternative. Its efficacy rivals electroconvulsive therapy, with a significantly faster onset than traditional antidepressants, quickly reducing suicide risk. The FDA approved esketamine for treatment-resistant depression in 2019. Ketamine's therapeutic benefits depend on form and dosage, likely involving brain neuroplasticity for its swift action.
Abstract
Introduction and purpose: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most common psychiatric illness, affecting millions of people worldwide. The first...
Ketamine differentially affects implicit and explicit memory processes in rats.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's impact on memory is more nuanced than previously thought. While this drug is known for its antidepressant effects, research reveals it affects different types of memory in distinct ways. In fear conditioning tests, ketamine made it harder for rats to unlearn fearful memories. However, when navigating the Morris water maze, rats given ketamine actually showed improved ability to adapt to new routes. This suggests ketamine may selectively influence implicit and explicit memory processes, rather than causing overall memory impairment.
Abstract
Ketamine, a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist, produces antidepressant effects at subanesthetic doses. The therapeutic effect, however, is o...
Ketamine retards recovery from reward downshift and supports conditioned taste aversion.
Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior – October 28, 2023
Summary
Ketamine's effects on emotional memory reveal an unexpected dark side: the drug can actually intensify negative experiences with food. When rats experienced a switch from high to low sugar water, ketamine made them more reluctant to drink, creating lasting aversive memories. This demonstrates how the drug influences reward processing and taste aversion, suggesting complex interactions between ketamine, frustration, and memory formation.
Abstract
Ketamine is a noncompetitive N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist with antidepressant, anxiolytic, and memory effects in clinical and pr...
Ketamine versus electroconvulsive therapy for major depressive episode: An updated systematic review and non-inferiority meta-analysis.
Psychiatry research – September 01, 2024
Summary
The anesthetic ketamine shows promise as an antidepressant, but may not match electroconvulsive therapy's effectiveness for severe depression. Analysis of 655 patients revealed that while ketamine caused fewer cognitive side effects and less muscle pain, ECT produced stronger improvements in depression symptoms, particularly for hospitalized patients with major depressive disorder. Both treatments remain valuable options for treating mood disorders.
Abstract
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the comparative effectiveness of ketamine versus electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) ...
The Effect of Minimal-Dose S-Ketamine Administration Post-Surgery on Opioids Consumption and Functional Rehabilitation Exercises in Patients Undergoing Minimally Invasive Radical Resection of Esophageal Cancer.
Therapeutics and clinical risk management – January 01, 2025
Summary
For patients recovering from esophageal cancer surgery, a minimal dose of S-ketamine remarkably reduced opioid consumption by 40%. This finding emerged from a comparison where patients received either S-ketamine or a placebo for postoperative analgesia. Those given S-ketamine not only used significantly less pain medication but also showed superior functional recovery. This approach offers a promising way to enhance patient rehabilitation.
Abstract
To examine the impact of minimal-dose S-ketamine on postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing minimally invasive radical resection for esophag...
Transient peripheral blood transcriptomic response to ketamine treatment in children with ADNP syndrome
medRxiv Preprint Server – January 29, 2024
Summary
Ketamine treatment for a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, ADNP syndrome, profoundly alters blood gene activity. A study of 10 individuals revealed immediate, transient changes, including a boost in immune-related genes, which returned to baseline within days. This offers crucial insights into ketamine's molecular effects, advancing therapeutic strategies for ADNP syndrome and potentially autism.
Abstract
Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder resulting in intellectual disability, developmenta...
KETAMIR-2, a new molecular entity and novel ketamine analog.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, a new ketamine analog, ketamir-2, avoids the psychomotor agitation seen with traditional ketamine. This novel NMDA receptor antagonist was designed for a superior safety profile. Unlike ketamine, ketamir-2 did not induce hyperlocomotion in tests. It also demonstrated significant anti-depressant and anxiolytic effects, outperforming ketamine in many areas. This suggests a promising, safer therapeutic option.
Abstract
Ketamir-2 is a new molecular entity, and a novel ketamine analog designed to improve oral bioavailability, and offer a superior safety profile comp...
Primary Care Paramedic-administered Ketamine in British Columbia, Canada: A Patient Safety-focused Observational Study.
Journal of patient safety – July 07, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, no adverse patient outcomes were observed when prehospital EMS paramedics in British Columbia began administering ketamine for pain. An observational review of 100 initial cases, investigating medication safety, revealed some instances of dosing deviations and documentation challenges. However, the absence of harm strongly supports the expanded paramedic role in managing pain, highlighting a positive safety profile for this crucial prehospital intervention.
Abstract
In Western Canada, British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) aimed to enhance prehospital pain management by authorizing Primary Care Para...
Ketamine plus midazolam compared to midazolam infusion for the management of refractory status epilepticus.
Clinical neurology and neurosurgery – November 01, 2024
Summary
Stopping severe, prolonged seizures faster is crucial in neurocritical care. A key question was whether adding ketamine to midazolam could end refractory status epilepticus (RSE) sooner than midazolam alone. Analyzing patient data, it was found that while initial midazolam response was similar, introducing ketamine significantly reduced the time to stop Status Epilepticus, including cases of Super refractory status epilepticus. This suggests a beneficial role for ketamine in accelerating seizure control.
Abstract
Data for the use of ketamine (Ket) in treatment of refractory and super-refractory status epilepticus (RSE, SRSE) is lacking despite its widespread...
Role of kappa-opioid receptors in the effects of salvinorin A and ketamine on attention in rats.
Psychopharmacology – June 01, 2010
Summary
Unexpectedly, drugs altering perception, like ketamine, share brain pathways. Research explored how salvinorin A and ketamine affect rat attention in a food-motivated task. Both drugs disrupted attention similarly. Notably, a kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) blocker reversed all salvinorin A effects and some ketamine effects. This suggests ketamine also acts on KORs. These findings highlight KORs' potential role in cognitive disruptions seen in conditions like schizophrenia.
Abstract
Disruptions in perception and cognition are characteristic of psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia. Studies of pharmacological agents that ...
Emerging Use of Low-Dose Ketamine for Pain Management Beyond the ICU.
Journal of pain & palliative care pharmacotherapy – July 20, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally for critical care, is now a powerful opioid alternative for pain management. A community hospital successfully implemented a low-dose ketamine infusion protocol on inpatient floors. This offers effective relief, especially for post operative pain, demonstrating a safe, valuable new model for broader adoption of ketamine in pain management.
Abstract
Pain management is a critical challenge in healthcare as acute and chronic pain affect millions of individuals globally. Opioid-based therapies tha...
Ketamine in treating opioid use disorder and opioid withdrawal: a scoping review.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
As opioid-related deaths double over two decades, medical experts explore ketamine - a powerful NMDA antagonist - as a promising treatment option. This medication shows potential in reducing both opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Studies reveal that ketamine helps patients manage substance use challenges, particularly during the difficult withdrawal phase, while also supporting successful buprenorphine treatment transitions.
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) continues to be a public health crisis in the United States, with mortality having doubled over the last twenty years, le...
Triple-network model-based graph theory analysis of the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression: two resting-state functional MRI clinical trials.
The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science – April 02, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in rewiring brain networks linked to severe depression. New brain imaging reveals how low-dose ketamine therapy improves connectivity between three crucial brain networks in patients who haven't responded to standard treatments. Using advanced mapping of resting-state brain activity, researchers found ketamine strengthens communication in areas controlling emotional processing and self-awareness, particularly in the default mode network.
Abstract
Evidence suggests the crucial role of dysfunctional default mode (DMN), salience and frontoparietal (FPN) networks, collectively termed the triple ...
Ketamine infusion for pain control in severely injured patients: Results of a randomized controlled trial.
The journal of trauma and acute care surgery – June 01, 2025
Summary
In the quest for better pain management after severe injury, ketamine shows unexpected results. A rigorous trial at a major trauma center explored whether this alternative medication could reduce reliance on opioids in patients with serious injuries. Despite high hopes, low-dose ketamine infusions didn't decrease opioid use or improve pain scores compared to placebo. This challenges current assumptions about ketamine's role in trauma care.
Abstract
Opiate-based pain regimens remain the cornerstone of pain management following traumatic injury, but issues related to opioids have driven research...
Patient preference effects in a randomized comparative effectiveness study of electroconvulsive therapy and ketamine for treatment resistant depression: An ELEKT-D trial secondary analysis.
Psychiatry research – May 01, 2025
Summary
Patient preference significantly impacts depression treatment success, with those receiving their preferred therapy showing better outcomes. When comparing ECT and ketamine treatments, patients who received their preferred option - especially those choosing ketamine - reported better response rates and fewer side effects. Notably, preference matching proved particularly beneficial for ketamine patients, while also reducing adverse effects in ECT recipients.
Abstract
Previous studies have shown patient preference can have large effects on treatment adherence and patient satisfaction. However, the direct effects ...
Low-dose ketamine improved brain network integrity among patients with treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation.
Psychiatry research – March 01, 2025
Summary
A single low dose of ketamine shows promise in rapidly improving brain network connections while reducing depression and suicidal thoughts. In this groundbreaking research, patients with treatment-resistant depression received either ketamine or a control medication. Using advanced brain imaging, researchers found ketamine strengthened functional connectivity in key brain regions, particularly the thalamus and angular gyrus. These improvements in brain network organization corresponded with significant reductions in depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation.
Abstract
Ketamine is a dissociative drug used for the treatment of depression. However, the neurofunctional mechanism underlying the antidepressant effect o...
Perioperative ketamine to reduce and prevent acute and chronic post-thoracotomy pain: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.
Journal of thoracic disease – December 31, 2024
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in preventing long-term pain after chest surgery. In a breakthrough finding, patients who received ketamine before thoracic surgery were three times less likely to develop chronic post-thoracotomy pain (CPTP) after 90 days. While it didn't reduce immediate post-surgery discomfort, ketamine significantly lowered the risk of developing persistent neuropathic pain, offering new hope for better surgical recovery.
Abstract
Moderate to severe postoperative pain is common among patients following thoracotomy and serves as a risk factor for developing chronic post-thorac...
Differential effects of statins on the anti-dyskinetic activity of sub-anesthetic ketamine.
Neuroscience letters – February 06, 2025
Summary
Low-dose ketamine shows promise in treating involuntary movements in Parkinson's disease, but common cholesterol medications may interfere. Research reveals that while ketamine helps reduce abnormal movements, certain statins can block its benefits. Notably, pravastatin disrupts ketamine's therapeutic effects, while lovastatin doesn't. This finding has important implications for Parkinson's patients taking both medications.
Abstract
Sub-anesthetic ketamine has been demonstrated to reduce abnormal involuntary movements (AIMs) in preclinical models of L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia (L...
The diverse effects of ketamine, jack-of-all-trades: a narrative review.
British journal of anaesthesia – March 01, 2025
Summary
Beyond its well-known role in anaesthesia, ketamine emerges as a remarkably versatile medicine. This NMDA receptor antagonist offers powerful analgesia for pain management, while showing promise in treating depression with rapid relief from suicidal thoughts. Its benefits extend to anti-inflammatory properties, potential tumour suppression, and safe sedation with cardiovascular stability.
Abstract
Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor antagonist that was first discovered in 1962, has become established in anaesthesia providing dose-d...
Examining the impact of comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder on ketamine's real-world effectiveness in treatment-resistant depression.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine offers new hope for people with hard-to-treat depression, even when complicated by post-traumatic stress. In a breakthrough finding, this rapid-acting antidepressive agent proved equally effective for patients with treatment-resistant depressive disorder, regardless of whether they had comorbid stress disorders. The treatment significantly reduced symptoms in both conditions.
Abstract
Depression with comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with more severe symptoms and a reduced response to traditional treatme...
Characterization of the temporal profile of the antinociceptive effects of an intravenous bolus of ketamine using the analgesia nociception index in no-anesthetized adult patients.
Journal of clinical monitoring and computing – April 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's pain-relieving effects peak just 2 minutes after injection, offering rapid relief for patients. This groundbreaking pharmacology research tracked how ketamine influences pain perception by monitoring the body's analgesia-nociception balance in 20 awake patients. Results showed ketamine significantly improved pain control scores from 38 to 53, demonstrating its effectiveness as a fast-acting analgesic medication.
Abstract
An effect-site target-controlled infusion (TCI) would allow a more precise titration of intravenous analgesics effect. The analgesia nociception in...
Efficacy of racemic ketamine or esketamine monotherapy for reducing suicidal ideation in uni- or bipolar depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience – October 09, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough findings show ketamine offers rapid relief from suicidal thoughts in people with major depressive and bipolar disorders. This comprehensive analysis of 13 clinical trials found that ketamine treatment doubled the chances of overcoming suicidal ideation compared to placebo treatments. While standard esketamine showed mixed results, traditional ketamine emerged as a promising fast-acting option for severe depression.
Abstract
The current systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of racemic ketamine or esketamine on suicidal ideation in individuals with uni-...
The Use of Prophylactic Ketamine to Mitigate Postoperative Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review.
Journal of perianesthesia nursing : official journal of the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nurses – April 01, 2025
Summary
A single dose of ketamine during surgery could significantly reduce post-surgical depression, offering hope for millions. This comprehensive analysis of nine clinical trials found that administering ketamine during operations helped prevent depressive symptoms in most surgical patients. When given during or immediately after surgery, ketamine not only aided recovery but also protected mental well-being, with minimal surgical complications. Seven out of nine studies showed marked improvement in mood scores, suggesting this approach could transform how hospitals address post-surgical depression.
Abstract
Depression is predicted to be the leading burden of disease worldwide by 2030 with a prevalence of 10% to 60% in the surgical population. Depressiv...
Allosteric inhibition of NMDA receptors by low dose ketamine.
Molecular psychiatry – March 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable antidepressant effects at low doses work differently than previously thought. Scientists discovered that tiny amounts of ketamine don't completely block brain receptors, but rather gently modify their function through a newly identified mechanism. This selective action allows normal brain signaling while reducing excessive activity, explaining why low-dose ketamine can effectively treat depression without causing anesthesia.
Abstract
Ketamine, a general anesthetic, has rapid and sustained antidepressant effects when administered at lower doses. Anesthetic levels of ketamine redu...
The Efficacy of Ketamine for Acute and Chronic Pain in Patients with Cancer: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) – August 06, 2024
Summary
Ketamine shows promising results in managing severe cancer pain when traditional treatments fall short. This comprehensive analysis of clinical trials reveals that combining ketamine with standard pain medications significantly improved pain control in cancer patients, particularly after surgery. While most effective for acute pain, ketamine helped reduce opioid requirements and provided relief for some patients with refractory cancer pain. The treatment proved especially beneficial when administered intravenously alongside conventional pain management approaches.
Abstract
Managing cancer-related pain poses significant challenges, prompting research into alternative approaches such as ketamine. This systematic review ...
Transient peripheral blood transcriptomic response to ketamine treatment in children with ADNP syndrome.
Translational psychiatry – July 25, 2024
Summary
A single dose of ketamine can trigger rapid changes in gene expression patterns in children with a rare genetic condition affecting brain development. In a groundbreaking investigation of 10 patients, researchers found that ketamine treatment immediately activated immune system responses while temporarily decreasing RNA processing. These molecular changes reversed within 24 hours to a week, suggesting ketamine's effects are both powerful and precise in their timing.
Abstract
Activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP) syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder resulting in intellectual disability, developmenta...
The Pharmacological Management of Ketamine Use Disorder: A Systematic Review.
Journal of addiction medicine
Summary
As ketamine use rises globally, healthcare providers now have initial evidence for managing its misuse. Benzodiazepines show promise in treating both acute ketamine intoxication and withdrawal symptoms. For long-term recovery, medications like naltrexone and lamotrigine may help prevent relapse. While current evidence comes from small studies, these findings offer a starting point for treating ketamine dependence with targeted medications.
Abstract
There has been limited evidence synthesis examining treatment of ketamine use disorder. We aimed to conduct a systematic review to assess the effic...
Effect of Ketamine Treatment on Social Withdrawal in Autism and Autism-Like Conditions.
Clinical neuropharmacology
Summary
A promising breakthrough in autism treatment reveals that ketamine may help reduce social withdrawal symptoms. Research shows that intravenous ketamine treatments can improve social engagement in individuals with autism spectrum conditions, particularly in the short term. While traditional antidepressants often take weeks to work, ketamine's rapid-acting properties showed immediate benefits for some patients, with minimal side effects. Multiple case studies demonstrated decreased isolation and improved social interactions, offering hope for those seeking alternative therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Ketamine and esketamine have been used in the field of psychiatry to alleviate conditions such as major depressive disorder. Our objective was to e...
Formulary Coverage of Esketamine and Ketamine for Depression in Ohio Health Insurance Marketplace and Medicaid Plans.
Journal of psychiatric practice – March 01, 2024
Summary
Despite proven antidepressant benefits, insurance coverage for ketamine and esketamine varies dramatically in Ohio. While no insurance plans cover generic IV ketamine for depression, most marketplace plans (72.7%) and all Medicaid plans cover the newer, FDA-approved intranasal esketamine - even though ketamine may be more cost-effective and potentially more effective for treating depression.
Abstract
For more than 2 decades, intravenous ketamine has been demonstrated to have rapid antidepressant effects. However, access to this generic drug is l...
Ketamine increases activity of a fronto-striatal projection that regulates compulsive behavior
bioRxiv Preprint Server – July 06, 2020
Summary
Ketamine rapidly reduces symptoms in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). To understand this therapeutic effect, researchers used a mouse model of compulsive behavior, finding ketamine boosts activity in a specific fronto-striatal circuit. Significantly, activating this circuit with light technology reversed compulsive grooming. This reveals ketamine's effective control of compulsive behavior via this pathway, offering vital insights into its therapeutic effects for OCD.
Abstract
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions), is associated with dy...
Comparative efficacy and safety of intravenous racemic ketamine, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroconvulsive therapy for Stage 2 or higher treatment-resistant depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.
PCN reports : psychiatry and clinical neurosciences – September 01, 2025
Summary
Treating severe depression that resists standard therapies is challenging, yet new insights offer promising alternatives. A comprehensive network meta-analysis of 35 studies compared electroconvulsive therapy with intravenous ketamine and transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment-resistant depression. The findings suggest that ketamine and transcranial magnetic stimulation are not inferior in efficacy or safety. Notably, ketamine showed higher patient acceptability. This analysis indicates these emerging treatments hold strong potential as viable alternatives.
Abstract
Although electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the standard treatment for Stage 2 or higher treatment-resistant depression, it has several drawbacks. ...
Haloperidol versus Ketamine for Managing Acute Agitation in the Emergency Department: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Bulletin of emergency and trauma – January 01, 2025
Summary
In emergency situations, calming severe psychomotor agitation quickly is vital. A clinical trial found that Ketamine offered a significantly faster onset of action than Haloperidol for managing acute agitation in the Emergency. This study, involving 120 adults, compared intravenous Ketamine to Haloperidol, observing both effectively reduced agitation. Ketamine's rapid effect suggests it could be a preferred first-line choice when immediate control is critical, potentially reducing complications like emergence delirium.
Abstract
The primary outcome was the management of acute agitation, as measured by the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS). Secondary outcomes included...
The Sedative and Haemodynamic effects Of Continuous Ketamine infusions on Intensive Care Unit patients (SHOCK-ICU): Investigating key outcomes, resource utilisation and staff decision-making: Clinical feasibility study protocol.
Journal of the Intensive Care Society – May 01, 2025
Summary
In intensive care units, where nearly half of UK patients need ventilator support, ketamine may offer a safer sedation alternative. This feasibility study explores continuous ketamine infusion as a promising sedation method for ICU patients on ventilators. Unlike traditional sedatives that can cause blood pressure drops and confusion, ketamine's 50-year safety record and unique properties, including potential antidepressant benefits, make it an intriguing option for intensive care sedation. The study will track 30 ventilated patients to evaluate ketamine's effectiveness and implementation potential.
Abstract
Between April 2022 and March 2023, 43.8% (88,259) patients admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU) in the United Kingdom (UK) required breathing sup...
Ketamine infusion therapy for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and suicidal ideation: Nursing care and considerations.
Nursing – December 01, 2025
Summary
Major depressive disorder affects millions, and for those with treatment-resistant forms, ketamine infusion therapy offers a promising behavioral health solution. This approach effectively addresses chronically depressed mood and acute suicidal ideation. Expert nursing care is vital for safe and effective ketamine administration, ensuring positive patient outcomes.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects approximately 332 million people worldwide. Among those diagnosed with MDD, approximately 53% receive pharm...
Is the Subthalamic Nucleus Sleeping Under Nitrous Oxide-Ketamine General Anesthesia?
The European journal of neuroscience – March 01, 2025
Summary
During deep brain stimulation surgery, brain activity continues even under anesthesia. When combining nitrous oxide and ketamine, doctors can still accurately identify key brain regions, though certain neural signals are reduced. This finding makes surgery more comfortable for patients while maintaining the precision needed for successful treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Abstract
Nitrous oxide is a common gaseous anesthetic used in a wide range of medical procedures due to its desirable combination of anesthetic and analgesi...
Beyond NMDA Receptors: A Narrative Review of Ketamine's Rapid and Multifaceted Mechanisms in Depression Treatment.
International journal of molecular sciences – December 20, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, once known only as an anesthetic, can lift severe depression symptoms within hours. This rapid-acting antidepressant works differently from traditional medications, targeting multiple brain systems simultaneously. As an NMDA antagonist, it triggers increased BDNF production, promoting neuroplasticity and new brain connections. It also rebalances triple network dysfunction and interacts with the opioid system, helping restore healthy brain function.
Abstract
The rising prevalence of depression, with its associated suicide risk, demands effective fast-acting treatments. Ketamine has emerged as promising,...
Sex difference alters the behavioral and cognitive performance in a rat model of schizophrenia induced by sub-chronic ketamine.
Journal of psychiatric research – October 01, 2024
Summary
Male and female brains respond differently to schizophrenia-like conditions, with females showing heightened sensitivity to certain symptoms. When ketamine was used to mimic schizophrenia in rats, females exhibited more intense movement changes and pain sensitivity. The antipsychotic drug risperidone effectively reversed these effects and restored normal brain chemistry in both sexes.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder with positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. In rats, sub-chronic administration of ketami...
Comparison of Fentanyl, Ketamine, and Lidocaine Combined with Propofol Anesthesia in Patients with Crohn Disease Undergoing Colonoscopy.
Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research – June 01, 2024
Summary
Pain management breakthrough: Ketamine and lidocaine prove safer alternatives to fentanyl during colonoscopies for Crohn's patients. These medications reduced oxygen desaturation risks and required less propofol while maintaining stable blood pressure. Patients recovered faster and reported equal satisfaction, marking a significant advance in making these procedures safer and more comfortable.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colonoscopy is the predominant invasive procedure for Crohn disease (CD) patients. Opioids and propofol carry risks of respiratory and c...
PREEMPTIVE INTRAVENOUS IBUPROFEN AND LOCAL KETAMINE IMPROVE POSTOPERATIVE ANALGESIA FOLLOWING THIRD MOLAR SURGERY: A DOUBLE-BLIND, RANDOMIZED, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED CLINICAL STUDY.
The journal of evidence-based dental practice – March 01, 2024
Summary
Combining ibuprofen with ketamine before wisdom tooth removal cuts post-surgery pain dramatically. In this groundbreaking pain management approach, patients receiving both medications experienced significantly less discomfort than those given either drug alone. The combined treatment also reduced the need for additional pain medication during recovery, though it didn't affect jaw stiffness (trismus).
Abstract
To compare the efficacy of preemptive ibuprofen, local ketamine, and their combination in managing postoperative pain and trismus following third m...
Prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex and its attentional modulation in the human S-ketamine and N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) models of psychosis
Journal of Psychopharmacology – May 01, 2007
Summary
Unlike Schizophrenia, where Prepulse inhibition (a reflex like the Moro reflex in psychology) is diminished, the hallucinogen S-ketamine *increased* this startle reaction in 9 volunteers. This contrasts with animal models of psychosis (e.g., using Phencyclidine, Lysergic acid diethylamide, Mescaline), which show diminished inhibition. Serotonergic DMT, unlike Psilocybin, had no effect. This Neuroscience finding reveals complex Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior, crucial for Psychedelics and Drug Studies and potentially Treatment of Major Depression.
Abstract
Patients with schizophrenia exhibit diminished prepuLse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle reflex and deficits in the attentional moduLation ...
Comparing the effect of low-dose ketamine and pressure vibration mechanical device with placebo in preventing pain on propofol injection in a patient undergoing elective surgery: a double-blind, randomized control study.
Regional anesthesia and pain medicine – January 27, 2026
Summary
A simple pressure vibration device significantly reduces acute pain from propofol injections, a common issue in medical procedures. In a trial involving 275 patients, 51.1% experienced no pain with the device, compared to just 30.4% with placebo. This non-pharmacological approach also drastically cut severe pain incidence to 4.3%, down from 18.5% in the placebo group. It proved as effective for pain management as low-dose ketamine (33.0% no pain), offering a reusable solution for improving pain perception without relying on pharmacology.
Abstract
Propofol, a commonly used intravenous anesthetic induction agent, frequently produces pain on injection, with an incidence ranging from 28% to 91%....
The cognitive neuroscience of ketamine in major depression.
Brain : a journal of neurology – June 30, 2025
Summary
A single dose of ketamine can alleviate severe depression symptoms within hours, with effects lasting for days. This fast-acting antidepressant's neurocognitive impact is key to understanding its efficacy. Studies reveal ketamine positively influences brain reward circuits, reverses negative emotional biases, and promotes long-term stress resilience. These beneficial neurocognitive changes are observed in both healthy individuals and those with depression, offering significant promise for treatment.
Abstract
Ketamine's potential as a rapid-acting antidepressant was first identified in 2000, despite its long-standing use as an anesthetic agent. Clinicall...
Effect of perioperative intravenous ketamine on postoperative sleep disturbance in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Indian journal of anaesthesia – May 01, 2025
Summary
Sleep problems after surgery affect millions, but a promising solution emerges: ketamine. When given during surgery, this anaesthetic medication significantly improves sleep quality and reduces pain in the days following operations. Analysis of 2,355 patients showed that those receiving ketamine reported better sleep scores on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and experienced less postoperative pain, without major side effects.
Abstract
Postoperative sleep disturbance (PSD) is a common condition that may lead to pain, cognitive impairment, depression, and delayed recovery. This rev...
Oral Ketamine as an Analgesic Therapy: Systematic Review of Randomised Clinical Trials.
Journal of pain & palliative care pharmacotherapy – April 30, 2025
Summary
While ketamine is traditionally given through IV, new research reveals promising results for oral administration in pain treatment. Analysis of six clinical trials shows that oral ketamine may help manage chronic neuropathic pain, particularly in cases where other analgesics have failed. Though side effects were common, some patients experienced significant pain reduction with doses up to 400mg daily.
Abstract
Ketamine is an analgesic used to manage neuropathic pain, but its use is limited by side effects and intravenous administration. Recently, the use ...
Ketamine rescues anhedonia by cell-type- and input-specific adaptations in the nucleus accumbens.
Neuron – May 07, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable ability to rapidly reverse depression symptoms stems from its targeted action in a key brain reward center. When stress damages pleasure-seeking circuits, ketamine repairs specific connections in the nucleus accumbens, restoring the brain's ability to experience joy. This repair occurs through strengthening synapses between the prefrontal cortex and reward neurons, leading to sustained improvements in mood and motivation.
Abstract
Ketamine is recognized as a rapid and sustained antidepressant, particularly for major depression unresponsive to conventional treatments. Anhedoni...
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Ketamine Versus Electroconvulsive Therapy in Major Depressive Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
The Psychiatric quarterly – February 18, 2025
Summary
New hope emerges for treating major depressive disorder: Ketamine performs similarly to electroconvulsive therapy in reducing depression symptoms, while better preserving memory function. Analysis of 643 patients shows both treatments effectively combat severe depression, though ketamine users experience more temporary side effects like dizziness and blurred vision.
Abstract
This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of ketamine versus electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in patients with major depressive di...
REM density predicts rapid antidepressant response to ketamine in individuals with treatment-resistant depression.
Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology – May 01, 2025
Summary
A higher density of rapid eye movements during early sleep stages may predict who will respond best to ketamine therapy for depression. Scientists found that people with treatment-resistant depression who showed more intense eye movements during their first dream cycle were more likely to improve with ketamine treatment. The drug effectively reduced these elevated eye movements while lifting depression, suggesting a promising way to identify patients who could benefit most from this breakthrough therapy.
Abstract
Abnormalities during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep contribute to the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD), but few studies have expl...
Comparison of the incidence of recovery agitation with two different doses of ketamine in procedural sedation: A randomized clinical trial.
Academic emergency medicine : official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine – January 29, 2025
Summary
Lower doses of ketamine can be just as effective for emergency procedures, with similar recovery outcomes. In a comparison of two ketamine doses for procedural sedation in the emergency department, patients receiving 0.5mg/kg showed comparable results to those given 1mg/kg. While some low-dose patients needed additional medication, both groups experienced similar levels of recovery agitation and sedation duration.
Abstract
The objective was to compare the incidence of recovery agitation and efficacy of two different intravenous (IV) doses of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg vs. 1 ...
Magnesium level and impulsivity during ketamine administration for treatment-resistant mood disorders.
Magnesium research
Summary
Low magnesium levels are common in people with mood disorders, but does this mineral affect treatment outcomes? New findings reveal insights about magnesium's role during ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression. Researchers tracked magnesium levels and impulsivity in 49 patients receiving ketamine infusions over 4 weeks. Despite expectations, magnesium concentrations showed no significant connection to changes in impulsive behaviors during treatment.
Abstract
Impulsive behaviours affect patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BP), increasing suicide risk and mood instability. ...
Hepatic adverse events associated with ketamine and esketamine: A population-based disproportionality analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – April 01, 2025
Summary
Recent data reveals surprising liver safety differences between ketamine and esketamine, two promising treatments for depression. Analysis of FDA adverse event reports shows ketamine has lower rates of serious liver problems compared to common pain relievers, though some mild liver function changes were noted. Esketamine showed minimal liver concerns overall, except for rare cases of liver failure. Regular liver testing is recommended for long-term users.
Abstract
To determine whether there is disproportionate reporting of hepatobiliary disorders in the United States (US) FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (F...