1705 results for "Ketamine"
Comparison of the analgesic dose of intravenous ketamine versus ketorolac in patients with chest trauma: A randomized double-blind clinical trial.
Academic emergency medicine : official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine – April 01, 2025
Summary
For patients with chest injuries, effective pain control can speed healing and improve outcomes. New research shows ketamine outperforms traditional ketorolac for managing severe chest pain, including in patients with rib fractures. In a 90-patient trial, those receiving ketamine reported significantly lower pain scores after 30 and 60 minutes, and needed less additional pain medication. While ketamine caused more nausea, it proved especially effective for patients with chest tubes.
Abstract
Pain management is a critical part of treatment in patients with chest trauma. Opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been the most ...
Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal ideation and ketamine: a case report.
Journal of medical case reports – December 24, 2024
Summary
Ketamine therapy shows promising results for treating severe depression and PTSD, as revealed in a compelling case report of two patients who found relief after years of unsuccessful treatments. Both individuals experienced significant improvement following ketamine infusions, with electroencephalogram monitoring showing positive brain changes. Their symptoms of major depressive disorder and trauma decreased substantially, lasting several months after treatment.
Abstract
Ketamine treatment presents a novel approach for addressing refractory conditions, such as major depressive disorder, suicidal ideation, and posttr...
The impact of ketamine on emergency rapid sequence intubation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BMC emergency medicine – September 27, 2024
Summary
When emergency breathing support is needed, ketamine proves to be as safe as other sedatives for rapid sequence intubation. Analysis of 16,807 patients showed no difference in hospital mortality rates between ketamine and alternatives. Notably, ketamine may even reduce death rates in the first week, though patients might need slightly longer intensive care stays.
Abstract
Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) is a crucial step in the resuscitation process for critically ill patients, and the judicious use of sedative drugs...
Comparison of the Antianhedonic Effects of Repeated-dose Intravenous Ketamine in Older and Younger Adults with Major Depressive Episode.
Current neuropharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine therapy shows promising results in treating depression symptoms, with fascinating age-related differences. In a groundbreaking analysis of 135 patients, repeated IV ketamine treatments reduced anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure) in both older and younger adults with major depressive disorder. While both groups improved, younger patients achieved better outcomes, with higher response rates and longer-lasting benefits than older adults.
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that repeated-dose intravenous ketamine in patients with depression had rapid antianhedonic effects. However, a compariso...
GluN2B on Adult-Born Granule Cells Modulates (R,S)-Ketamine's Rapid-Acting Effects in Mice.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – October 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable antidepressant effects may depend on newly formed brain cells in the hippocampus. Research reveals that 6-week-old neurons in the dentate gyrus are crucial for ketamine's rapid mood-lifting properties. The drug's effectiveness varies between males and females, with sex differences in behavioral responses. This breakthrough links adult neurogenesis to ketamine's benefits, potentially leading to more targeted treatments.
Abstract
Standard antidepressant treatments often take weeks to reach efficacy and are ineffective for many patients. (R,S)-ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartat...
Empowering understanding: navigating consent to ketamine treatment in adolescent mental health.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in treating severe adolescent depression, but obtaining proper consent presents unique ethical challenges. Healthcare providers must balance parental rights with young patients' growing autonomy when discussing this innovative treatment. The process requires clear communication about ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects, potential risks, and its current off-label status. Success hinges on informed consent from parents while ensuring meaningful assent from adolescents themselves.
Abstract
The rising prevalence of mental health disorders in adolescents, compounded by treatment resistance, underscores the need for innovative interventi...
(R)-(-)-Ketamine: The Promise of a Novel Treatment for Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders.
International journal of molecular sciences – June 20, 2024
Summary
A promising breakthrough in mental health treatment shows that (R)-ketamine may offer relief for depression without the typical side effects of traditional ketamine therapy. This variant works as a rapid-acting antidepressant for major depressive disorder, while causing less sedation and having lower abuse potential than its counterpart. Research demonstrates effectiveness across multiple psychiatric conditions, with positive results in treating both depression and neurological disorders. The compound appears to reduce inflammation and shows potential for helping substance use disorder patients.
Abstract
NMDA receptor antagonists have potential for therapeutics in neurological and psychiatric diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy,...
Ketamine treatment for anhedonia in unipolar and bipolar depression: a systematic review.
European neuropsychopharmacology : the journal of the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology – September 01, 2024
Summary
Rapid relief from the inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia) may be possible with ketamine therapy. This groundbreaking treatment shows promise for both major depressive disorder and bipolar depression patients. Studies reveal that a single dose can quickly restore the brain's ability to experience joy and reward, with effects lasting several days to weeks. Esketamine nasal spray and IV ketamine both demonstrated significant improvements in mood and emotional responsiveness.
Abstract
Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, is a racemic mixture of esketamine and arketamine used to treat unipolar and bipolar depress...
Comparison of Dexmedetomidine and Ketamine in Serratus Anterior Plane Block for Postoperative Pain Control in Thoracotomy Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Anesthesiology and pain medicine – February 01, 2024
Summary
Pain control breakthroughs: Adding ketamine to nerve blocks proves more effective than dexmedetomidine for managing post-thoracotomy pain. In this 74-patient trial, both medications helped reduce discomfort when added to standard nerve blocks, but ketamine showed superior pain control at key intervals. Patients receiving ketamine reported significantly lower pain scores, particularly in the first 24 hours after surgery.
Abstract
Postoperative pain control after thoracotomy is very important, and if not controlled, it can cause severe complications. This study aimed to compa...
Ketamine as Treatment for Cluster Headache: A Systematic Review of Literature and a Case Series.
Pain and therapy – June 01, 2024
Summary
New hope emerges for those suffering from cluster headaches, often called "suicide headaches" due to their severity. Ketamine, traditionally used as an anesthetic, shows promising results in treating these devastating attacks. Analysis of multiple studies and patient cases reveals significant pain reduction and improved quality of life among those receiving ketamine treatment. A systematic review found positive outcomes in 68 patients, with many reporting substantial relief.
Abstract
Cluster headache is a severe and debilitating neurological condition characterized by intense, excruciating pain with a significant impact on patie...
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial of the Acute Antisuicidal and Antidepressant Effects of Intranasal (R,S)-Ketamine in Severe Unipolar and Bipolar Depression With and Without Comorbid Alcohol Use Disorder.
The Journal of clinical psychiatry – April 24, 2024
Summary
A single dose of intranasal ketamine shows promise in rapidly reducing depression symptoms, regardless of whether patients have alcohol use disorder. This treatment, using a nasal spray form of ketamine, was tested in people with severe depression and suicidal thoughts. While depression improved significantly within hours, effects on suicidal thinking were less clear, though patients with alcohol problems showed slightly better responses.
Abstract
Objective: Although individuals with a family history of alcohol use disorder (AUD) have a superior antidepressant response to ketamine, outcomes i...
Exploring the multifaceted potential of (R)-ketamine beyond antidepressant applications.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
While traditional ketamine variants show promise for depression, (R)-ketamine emerges as a groundbreaking alternative with fewer side effects. This form demonstrates remarkable potential beyond mental health, showing benefits for cognitive disorders and ischemic stroke recovery. Its antidepressant efficacy, particularly in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), comes with minimal dissociative effects, making it a safer option for many patients.
Abstract
(R, S)- and (S)-ketamine have made significant progress in the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and have become a research focus i...
Acute Dissociation and Ketamine's Antidepressant and Anti-Suicidal Ideation Effects in a Midazolam-Controlled Trial.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – April 01, 2024
Summary
New findings challenge common assumptions about ketamine's effects: its dissociative side effects aren't linked to its powerful antidepressant benefits. Higher levels of ketamine's metabolite in the blood actually predicted fewer dissociative symptoms. This suggests the drug's ability to rapidly reduce depression and suicidal thoughts works through separate mechanisms from its temporary dissociative effects.
Abstract
We sought to explore relationships of acute dissociative effects of intravenous ketamine with change in depression and suicidal ideation and with p...
How the Food and Drug Administration Drug Approval Process Relates to the Potential Approval of Intravenous Racemic Ketamine for Treatment-resistant Major Depression.
Journal of psychiatric practice – March 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally an anesthetic, shows remarkable potential in treating severe depression that doesn't respond to standard medications. The FDA's path to approving new drug uses requires proving both effectiveness and safety through specific testing phases. While ketamine's antidepressant effects are promising, its intravenous form faces unique challenges, including safety considerations different from the already-approved nasal version. The drug's complex chemistry and delivery method require thorough evaluation before potential FDA approval.
Abstract
This column focuses on the status of intravenous racemic ketamine for the treatment of patients suffering from a form of major depressive disorder ...
Neurophysiological evidence that frontoparietal connectivity and GABA-A receptor changes underpin the antidepressant response to ketamine.
Translational psychiatry – February 24, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects may work by changing how brain regions communicate and altering specific chemical signals. Scientists tracked brain activity in 30 depression patients during ketamine treatment, finding two key changes: stronger communication from the brain's back to front regions, and faster processing of GABA, a calming brain chemical. These changes directly matched how well patients' depression improved, offering new insights into how this promising treatment works.
Abstract
Revealing the acute cortical pharmacodynamics of an antidepressant dose of ketamine in humans with depression is key to determining the specific me...
Microglial brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) supports the behavioral and synaptogenic effects of ketamine
bioRxiv Preprint Server – May 05, 2025
Summary
Brain immune cells, called microglia, are crucial for antidepressant effects. Research shows that ketamine's rapid positive impact on mood and brain function, specifically by increasing synaptic density in the prefrontal cortex, relies on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) produced by these microglia. When microglial BDNF was available, ketamine successfully enhanced brain connections and improved antidepressant responses. This reveals a vital role for microglia in pharmacological interventions.
Abstract
Microglia have been implicated in the pathogenesis for several psychiatric disorders, yet comparatively little is known about their role in treatme...
Ketamine can produce oscillatory dynamics by engaging mechanisms dependent on the kinetics of NMDA receptors
bioRxiv Preprint Server – April 03, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable ability to induce specific brain rhythms, like fast gamma waves, stems from its interaction with NMDA receptors. A new computer model of brain circuits revealed that blocking these receptors reduces the brain's braking mechanisms. This disinhibition, a key finding, allows an imbalance between exciting and calming signals, generating both fast gamma waves at various doses and slow delta waves at higher doses. This work significantly advances understanding of how ketamine functions as an anesthetic and depression treatment.
Abstract
Ketamine is an NMDA-receptor antagonist that produces sedation, analgesia and dissociation at low doses and profound unconsciousness with antinocic...
Sex and Age Differences in Ketamine Efficacy and Safety in Chronic Pain Alleviation.
Journal of clinical medicine – June 16, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's effectiveness in treating chronic refractory pain and depression appears consistent across different patient groups. A year-long study of 585 individuals found that repeated ketamine administrations offered similar relief from pain, anxiety, and depression for both sexes and various ages. While women experienced slightly more side effects, the overall positive impact on refractory pain and mood remained consistent.
Abstract
Background: Ketamine use for chronic pain and depression has increased worldwide, but sex differences in its efficacy and safety have been little s...
Racial-Ethnic Disparities in Ketamine and Esketamine Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder.
Psychiatric services (Washington, D.C.) – June 25, 2025
Summary
Understanding who receives advanced antidepressants for severe Depression is crucial. A recent analysis uncovered significant racial-ethnic disparities in the use of Ketamine and Esketamine. While Hispanic patients accessed Esketamine more often, Black and Asian individuals were prescribed Ketamine less frequently than White patients. These findings underscore unequal access to vital treatments for Depression.
Abstract
This study sought to investigate racial-ethnic disparities in the utilization of intravenous ketamine and intranasal esketamine therapy for major d...
Effects of Nebulization With Ketamine and Budesonide on Postoperative Sore Throat in Patients Undergoing Elective Surgeries Under General Anesthesia: A Randomized Controlled Comparative Clinical Study.
Cureus – October 01, 2024
Summary
A common post-surgery issue is a sore throat. Could a simple nebulization help? Researchers investigated if inhaled ketamine or budesonide could prevent postoperative sore throat after general anesthesia. Patients undergoing elective surgeries received one treatment. Both methods effectively reduced discomfort, with symptoms decreasing significantly over time. While ketamine offered slightly quicker relief, budesonide was associated with fewer side effects like hallucinations, proving a safer choice for patient comfort.
Abstract
Background Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a frequent issue after endotracheal intubation, caused by irritation and minor trauma to the throat....
Intraoperative ketamine and pain after video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS): A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Anaesthesia, critical care & pain medicine – December 01, 2024
Summary
Effective pain relief after surgery significantly speeds recovery. A comprehensive meta-analysis investigated whether intraoperative Ketamine could reduce acute pain following Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. This review of multiple studies revealed that Ketamine effectively reduced postoperative pain at both 12 and 48 hours, offering a promising approach for enhanced patient comfort.
Abstract
Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) reduces postoperative discomfort and expedites recovery compared to open thoracotomy. Effective postope...
Comparative efficacy and acceptability of psilocybin-ketamine and typical antidepressants for major depressive disorder management: a network meta-analysis
DELOS Desarrollo Local Sostenible – December 11, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin and ketamine significantly outperform traditional antidepressants for Major Depressive Disorder. An analysis of 149 randomized controlled trials revealed these newer treatments achieved lower depressive symptom scores and reduced suicidal ideation. Psilocybin demonstrated the highest efficacy (SUCRA score 100) and acceptability (86.96), with ketamine close behind (efficacy 86.83, acceptability 84.56). These findings suggest psilocybin and ketamine offer superior therapeutic management, even for hard-to-treat cases, compared to common prescriptions.
Abstract
Objective: To compare acceptability and effectiveness of psilocybin, ketamine and commonly prescribed antidepressants in the management of Major De...
The Emerging Role of Ketamine and Esketamine in the Concurrent Management of Pain and Depression in Cancer Patients: Evidence and Implications for Practice
Journal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy – December 27, 2025
Summary
Ketamine and its S-enantiomer esketamine show promise for alleviating both pain and depression in cancer patients. Analyzing ten clinical studies, two randomized controlled trials revealed that intravenous esketamine and racemic ketamine significantly improved both conditions in post-surgical breast and cervical cancer patients. Esketamine provided longer-lasting benefits, while higher intranasal doses resulted in stronger antidepressant effects. Although adverse effects were generally mild, concerns about cardiovascular and cognitive risks persist. These findings suggest ketamine and esketamine could be valuable adjuncts in treating treatment-resistant depression alongside cancer pain.
Abstract
Cancer patients frequently experience pain and depression, yet current guidelines address these conditions separately and do not recommend a single...
Ketamine for refractory depression: Save the best for last?
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – January 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally an anesthetic, shows remarkable promise in treating severe depression, matching the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy with fewer side effects. Rather than being a last resort, new pharmacology research suggests it could work better as an early treatment option. Current treatment algorithms place ketamine after multiple failed medications, but evidence shows it's safer than many standard augmentation strategies. For patients with treatment-resistant depression, earlier ketamine intervention could mean faster relief and better outcomes.
Abstract
Ketamine has recently been shown to be non-inferior to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), one of psychiatry's most effective treatments for depressio...
A Comparison of the Efficacy and Adverse Effects of Ketamine and Electroconvulsive Therapy in the Management of Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Systematic Review.
Cureus – March 01, 2024
Summary
When traditional antidepressants fail, ketamine and ECT offer hope for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). While ECT remains the gold standard, ketamine shows promising results with fewer cognitive side effects. Studies reveal ketamine works faster but has shorter-lasting benefits, while ECT achieves higher long-term remission rates despite potential memory issues.
Abstract
Ketamine has been repeatedly demonstrated to be an effective treatment in the management of patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). An ...
Ketamine's Role in Neuroinflammation and Neuroprotection Across Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders: A Narrative Review.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – August 29, 2025
Summary
Beyond its anesthetic use, ketamine shows exciting potential for neuroprotection. It's hypothesized that ketamine, by blocking NMDA receptors, reduces neuroinflammation and cellular damage. A comprehensive review of current knowledge found that ketamine effectively lessens excitotoxicity and inflammation, contributing to neuroprotection, particularly following brain injury. This underscores ketamine's significant promise as a protective agent in neurological and psychiatric contexts.
Abstract
Ketamine, a widely used anesthetic with emerging evidence suggesting neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties across various neurological d...
Therapeutic doses of ketamine acutely attenuate the aversive effect of losses during decision-making
bioRxiv Preprint Server – July 25, 2022
Summary
A key discovery shows how a therapeutic compound can alter our perception of negative experiences. Using primates, researchers investigated its effect on decision-making involving gains and losses. They found the compound significantly lessened the distress from losses, making undesirable outcomes less aversive. Importantly, it did not impact the evaluation of gains or other cognitive functions. This suggests its acute ability to reduce the initial impact of negative events could lead to lasting improvements by mitigating their cumulative effect.
Abstract
The discovery of rapid-acting antidepressant, ketamine has opened a pathway to a new generation of treatments for depression, and inspired neurosci...
A qualitative and quantitative account of patient's experiences of ketamine and its antidepressant properties.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – August 01, 2021
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Ketamine is central to one of the most rapidly growing areas of neuroscientific research into novel treatments for depression. Limited research has...
The Role of Ketamine in the Treatment of Bipolar Depression: A Scoping Review.
Brain sciences – June 04, 2023
Summary
No Summary
Abstract
Bipolar depression remains a clinical challenge with a quarter of patients failing to respond to initial conventional treatments. Although ketamine...
Neuropharmacology of Ketamine and Its Use in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: A Review.
Cureus – April 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment offers new hope for severe depression: ketamine acts within hours, unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks. This rapid-acting medication works by blocking NMDA receptors, triggering positive changes in brain chemistry and synaptic connections. Studies show it's particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression, matching the success of electroconvulsive therapy but with faster relief.
Abstract
Depression is a common yet potentially debilitating mood disorder with complex neurobiological underpinnings, including deficiencies in monoaminerg...
Readdressing rapid sequence induction and intubation using ketamine or etomidate: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Medicine – May 09, 2025
Summary
When seconds count during emergency intubation, choosing the right sedation medication matters. New evidence shows ketamine and etomidate are equally effective for RSII (rapid sequence induction and intubation) in critical care, but ketamine offers a key advantage: it's less likely to suppress adrenal function. This finding comes from analysis of 10 trials involving 2,862 patients, showing similar safety profiles for both drugs in preventing post-procedure blood pressure drops and mortality.
Abstract
The objective of this article is to clinically compare the inducing drugs ketamine and etomidate during the orotracheal intubation procedure in cri...
Intravenous Ketamine Treatment for Depression: One-year Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care Psychiatry Center from India.
Indian journal of psychological medicine – April 29, 2025
Summary
Ketamine infusion therapy shows remarkable promise in treating severe depression, with over 50% of patients experiencing significant improvement. In a groundbreaking year-long analysis, this rapid-acting treatment helped 39% of patients achieve full remission from depressive symptoms. Most notably, 71% reported reduced suicidal thoughts. The therapy proved especially effective for treatment-resistant depression, requiring only 4-5 sessions on average for meaningful results.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating mental health condition characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. The emergence of ke...
The impact of ketamine and thiopental anesthesia on ultraweak photon emission and oxidative-nitrosative stress in rat brains.
Frontiers in systems neuroscience – January 01, 2025
Summary
Did you know that brains emit tiny amounts of light? Scientists discovered that different anesthetics can affect this subtle glow. When comparing ketamine and thiopental in isolated rat brains, researchers found opposite effects: ketamine increased this ultraweak photon emission while thiopental decreased it. These changes matched shifts in brain chemistry, suggesting light emission could be a new way to monitor brain activity during anesthesia.
Abstract
Anesthetics such as ketamine and thiopental, commonly used for inducing unconsciousness, have distinct effects on neuronal activity, metabolism, an...
Ketamine Treatment for Pediatric Refractory Obsessive: Five Open Label Cases.
Journal of child and adolescent psychopharmacology – April 01, 2025
Summary
A single ketamine infusion shows promise as a safe treatment option for teens with severe OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). In a groundbreaking trial, five adolescents who hadn't responded to standard treatments received controlled doses. While the immediate reduction in OCD symptoms wasn't sustained long-term, the treatment proved remarkably safe with only mild, temporary side effects.
Abstract
Importance: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and cognitive behavioral therapy are the first-line treatments for pediatric obsessive-...
The role of ketamine and its enantiomer in managing depression and pain in cancer patients: A narrative review.
Journal of anesthesia and translational medicine – December 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, traditionally used in anesthesia, emerges as a powerful dual solution for cancer patients struggling with both depression and pain. This innovative approach shows rapid mood improvement and effective pain management in oncology settings. Low doses can significantly reduce depressive symptoms while also helping control post-surgical discomfort, offering cancer patients a more comfortable recovery journey.
Abstract
Depression and pain are common comorbidities in cancer patients, and ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, has shown potential in managing both. Thi...
Ketamine attenuates kidney damage and depression-like behaviors in mice with cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury.
Translational psychiatry – November 09, 2024
Summary
Ketamine, known primarily as an anesthetic, shows promise in treating both kidney damage and depression simultaneously. New research reveals that a single dose significantly reduced kidney injury and improved mood in mice with chemotherapy-related kidney damage. The treatment worked by activating specific brain pathways and altering blood chemicals, offering hope for patients dealing with both kidney problems and depression.
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a serious condition characterized by decreased urine output, often accompanied by psychiatric symptoms like depression...
Pre-emptive Nebulized Ketamine Versus Lidocaine for Post-tonsillectomy Pain Management in Children: A Comparative Study.
Cureus – September 01, 2024
Summary
Nebulized ketamine shows remarkable promise in managing post-surgical pain in children. When administered before tonsillectomy, this innovative pain management approach reduced the need for rescue analgesia to just 14% of patients, compared to 86% with lidocaine. The nebulization method proved both safe and effective, offering parents a gentler option for their children's surgical recovery.
Abstract
Background Tonsillectomy is associated with significant pain, and postoperative pain control is often unsatisfactory. There have been several metho...
Functional connectivity subtypes during a positive mood induction: Predicting clinical response in a randomized controlled trial of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression.
Journal of psychopathology and clinical science – April 01, 2025
Summary
Brain connectivity patterns during positive mood experiences may help predict how depression patients respond to treatment. Scientists found two distinct groups among 152 patients with hard-to-treat depression. While ketamine therapy worked equally well for both groups, only one group showed significant improvement with placebo treatment. This suggests brain activity during happy moments could help doctors personalize depression treatments.
Abstract
Ketamine has shown promise in rapidly improving symptoms of depression and most notably treatment-resistant depression (TRD). However, given the he...
Combination of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Ketamine in Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Systematic Review.
Cureus – July 01, 2024
Summary
When traditional depression treatments fail, combining ketamine with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) shows remarkable promise. This innovative approach helps patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) achieve significant symptom relief. Studies reveal that combining these therapies leads to better outcomes than using either treatment alone, with minimal side effects and improved mood and function in those with major depressive disorder.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a significant challenge in psychiatric practice, affecting a substantial proportion of patients with major ...
Quantium Consciousness Index and Quantium Noxious Index in Ketamine Subdose Administration Compared with Fentanyl and Midazolam in Postoperative ICU Patients: A Prospective, Observational Study.
Indian journal of critical care medicine : peer-reviewed, official publication of Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine – June 01, 2024
Summary
Low-dose ketamine shows promise as an alternative to traditional sedatives in ICU care. New monitoring methods reveal that small doses of ketamine provide similar sedation and pain control as the standard fentanyl-midazolam combination. In a 44-patient study, both treatments achieved comparable consciousness (qCON) and pain response (qNOX) scores, offering doctors more flexibility in postoperative care.
Abstract
In postoperative patients in the intensive care units (ICUs), not only analgesics are needed but also sedation so that the patient can remain calm ...
A meta-analysis of the effects of ketamine on suicidal ideation in depression patients.
Translational psychiatry – June 10, 2024
Summary
Ketamine shows remarkable promise in rapidly reducing suicidal thoughts, with effects visible within 24 hours of treatment. Analysis of 1,380 patients across multiple studies revealed that repeated treatments yielded even better results than single doses. The medication proved 4 times more effective than placebos at reducing suicidal ideation, offering new hope for rapid intervention in severe depression cases.
Abstract
The treatment of suicidal ideation in patients with depression has been a major problem faced by psychiatric and emergency departments, and reasona...
Ketamine for mood disorders, anxiety, and suicidality in children and adolescents: a systematic review.
European child & adolescent psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promise as a rapid-acting treatment for depression and anxiety in young people. Research spanning 16 studies found that both ketamine and esketamine significantly improved mood and reduced suicidal thoughts in children and adolescents. Youth with severe depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety experienced quick relief, with benefits lasting weeks to months. Side effects were generally mild.
Abstract
Mood disorders, anxiety, and suicidality in youth are increasing and rapid-acting treatments are urgently needed. One potential is ketamine or its ...
Age affects temporal response, but not durability, to serial ketamine infusions for treatment refractory depression
medRxiv Preprint Server – August 31, 2020
Summary
Ketamine can swiftly alleviate severe depression, but its lasting impact varies. One investigation explored how age influences this. It revealed that older individuals might experience a slower onset of relief from serial infusions. Crucially, however, the durability of their positive response was just as strong as in younger patients. This highlights that while age can affect how quickly benefits appear, it doesn't diminish the long-term effectiveness.
Abstract
Background Ketamine is a rapid-acting treatment for patients with treatment refractory depression (TRD), however treatment responses are often tran...
Ketamine Effects on Energy Metabolism, Functional Connectivity and Working Memory in Healthy Humans
bioRxiv Preprint Server – February 21, 2023
Summary
Ketamine significantly alters how the brain uses energy. Advanced imaging revealed that this NMDAR blocker increases oxygen consumption and blood flow in critical brain areas like the prefrontal cortex. While brain communication networks remained unaffected, these metabolic changes were linked to shifts in working memory performance. This highlights that brain energy use and communication are distinct, and directly measuring energy changes is crucial for understanding drug impacts on the brain.
Abstract
Working memory (WM) is a crucial resource for temporary memory storage and the guiding of ongoing behavior. N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor...
Ketamine for the treatment of mental health and substance use disorders: comprehensive systematic review
BJPsych Open – December 23, 2021
Summary
Ketamine shows robust, rapid antidepressant and anti-suicidal effects, offering a new frontier in Medicine and Psychiatry. A comprehensive systematic review, drawing from 83 published reports including 33 systematic reviews and 29 randomized controlled trials, explored ketamine's impact on mental health. Searching MEDLINE and PsycINFO, the meta-analysis confirmed its potential for Major depressive disorder and Suicidal ideation. While promising for the Treatment of Major Depression, the AMSTAR Checklist revealed a high risk of bias, suggesting caution for Clinical psychology and Mental Health Research Topics.
Abstract
Background In the past two decades, subanaesthetic doses of ketamine have been demonstrated to have rapid and sustained antidepressant effects, and...
The role of frontal EEG in predicting clinical response of major depressive disorder to intranasal ketamine and esketamine.
Journal of affective disorders – November 22, 2025
Summary
Brainwave patterns may predict who responds to rapid-acting depression treatments. Researchers found that specific frontal EEG biomarker patterns, like increased functional connectivity and decreased Entropy, before treatment, successfully identified individuals with Depression who would benefit from Ketamine or Esketamine. These distinct brain signals offer a promising way to personalize care, highlighting the potential of EEG to guide effective treatment for depression.
Abstract
Ketamine and its enantiomer esketamine are NMDA receptor antagonists that have shown consistent antidepressant effects in major depression disorder...
Ketamine Pharmacodynamics Entangled: Reply
Anesthesiology – September 12, 2022
Summary
How Medicine categorizes powerful psychedelics like Ketamine is evolving. For over two decades, Drug Studies involving three drugs (Ketamine, cannabis, psilocybin) in patients and healthy volunteers revealed similar mind-altering effects. Traditional Anesthesia and Pharmacology terms like "dissociation," or focusing on a single Neurotransmitter Receptor, prove insufficient. A new Pharmacodynamics term, "psychoplastogen," is proposed. This describes molecules promoting rapid neural plasticity in the cortex, explaining their healing mechanisms for Treatment of Major Depression, beyond subjective experiences.
Abstract
We thank Bowdle et al.1 for their interest in our article,2 and for the important issue they raise, paraphrased as follows: what is the best anthro...
Efficacy of Oral Ketamine in Patients with Depression and Suicidality: A Retrospective Study.
Indian journal of psychological medicine – January 22, 2026
Summary
Oral ketamine shows promise as a rapid-acting antidepressant, significantly reducing depression and suicidality. In 41 patients, oral ketamine therapy led to an average 8.19-point drop in depression scores and a 4.95-point reduction in suicidality after just three sessions. This suggests its potential for immediate benefit in outpatient settings, especially considering diverse sociocultural factors. Common side effects included dizziness and nausea. This effective treatment offers a new avenue for managing severe depression and its associated suicidality.
Abstract
Depression is a significant global health issue, often accompanied by suicidality, which requires urgent and effective interventions. Oral ketamine...
Effect of Ketamine Supplementation in Axillary Plexus Blockade: A Comparative Study.
Cureus – December 01, 2025
Summary
Adding ketamine significantly improves pain relief after surgery. A study of 81 patients undergoing axillary brachial plexus block for below-elbow procedures found ketamine, combined with ropivacaine, led to a faster onset time. Patients (27 intravenous, 26 regional) experienced significantly lower NRS scores at 16, 20, and 24 hours compared to ropivacaine alone (28 patients). This suggests enhanced postoperative analgesia and reduced rebound pain, offering a promising approach for managing discomfort following brachial plexus procedures.
Abstract
Introduction Axillary brachial plexus block is a widely used regional anesthesia technique for below-elbow surgeries. The use of adjuvant medicatio...
Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Comprehensive Insight of Ketamine Infusion Therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Annals of Punjab Medical College – December 31, 2024
Summary
New hope emerges for treatment-resistant depression, with effective alternative therapies showing promise. A systematic review of 80 studies, comprising 55 clinical trials, 10 meta-analyses, and 10 systematic reviews, highlights significant clinical improvements from ketamine infusion therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Ketamine and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, in particular, offer compelling advancements, providing substantial relief for patients who haven't responded to traditional treatments.
Abstract
Background: The phenomenon of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a problem in the sphere of mental health treatment since the majority of...
Copper Concentrations in Ketamine Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Brain Sciences – December 11, 2020
Summary
Ketamine, a rapid antidepressant for severe depression, significantly alters serum copper concentrations. Levels before treatment were higher than after the fifth infusion, and post-treatment levels were also higher than after the fifth infusion. However, these fluctuations in copper were not associated with improvements in depressive symptoms, as measured by psychometric scales, nor with patients' other health conditions. This provides data on copper's dynamic role during short-term ketamine therapy, independent of its immediate impact on mood.
Abstract
Changes in serum copper concentration are observed in patients with depressive symptoms. Unmet needs in contemporary antidepressant treatment have ...
Modulation of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors as a Strategy to Improve the Efficacy and Safety of Ketamine as an Antidepressant
Cells – December 11, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, has revolutionized depression treatment by offering rapid and lasting relief for 70% of patients resistant to traditional therapies. However, its side effects raise safety concerns. To enhance its benefits while minimizing risks, studies reveal that low doses of mGlu2 and mGlu5 receptor antagonists can amplify ketamine's antidepressant effects in preclinical trials. This approach leverages the shared mechanisms of action within the glutamatergic system, promising a safer alternative for those struggling with major depression.
Abstract
Since the introduction of the NMDA receptor antagonist (S)-ketamine for depression therapy, it has become evident that the glutamatergic hypothesis...
Side Effects and Adverse Events in Prehospital Ketamine Analgesia for Trauma
International Journal of Paramedicine – October 08, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, an effective analgesic for traumatic pain, shows a low incidence of serious adverse effects in prehospital settings, with only 3% experiencing severe complications among 1,301 patients analyzed across eight studies. Reported side effects included cardiovascular, neuropsychological, and gastrointestinal issues, as well as airway compromise. Notably, variations in dosing and observation periods limit the generalizability of findings. When used judiciously in selected patients, Ketamine can enhance pain management strategies for paramedics, improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
Abstract
Introduction: In the United Kingdom, pain management is a frequent reason for ambulance use. The benefits of adequate pain management are well docu...
Cognitive changes in patients with unipolar TRD treated with IV ketamine: A systematic review.
Progress in neuro-psychopharmacology & biological psychiatry – December 20, 2024
Summary
Intravenous ketamine shows promising cognitive benefits for people with treatment-resistant depression. Studies reveal improvements in memory, thinking speed, and mental processing after treatment. This breakthrough offers hope for patients who haven't responded to traditional antidepressants, potentially enhancing both mood and cognitive function. The treatment particularly helps with attention, working memory, and emotional processing.
Abstract
Unipolar treatment-resistant depression (MDD-TRD) is associated with neurocognitive impairment. Ketamine, an emerging treatment for MDD-TRD, may ha...
Synergistic use of deep TMS therapy with IV ketamine infusions for major depressive disorder: a pilot study.
Psychopharmacology – July 01, 2024
Summary
Combining Deep TMS therapy with ketamine infusions shows promising results for treating Major Depressive Disorder, with response rates over 80%. This innovative approach pairs brain stimulation with targeted medication to help patients who haven't responded to conventional treatments. Both combined and TMS-only treatments significantly reduced depression symptoms, with similar success rates between groups.
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a pervasive psychiatric condition effecting approximately 21 million adults in the U.S. (8.4%). An estimated 30-...
Temporal Immune Effects of Oral Ketamine on PTSD: Transcriptomic Evidence of Short-Term Inflammation Suppression and Long-Term Immune Remodelling
medRxiv Preprint Server – May 26, 2025
Summary
Ketamine's rapid relief for PTSD may stem from its profound impact on the body's immune system. Researchers explored how oral ketamine affects gene activity in PTSD patients, finding initial suppression of inflammation. Over weeks, this transitioned to sustained immune regulation and tissue repair, with significant changes. These insights reveal ketamine's long-term therapeutic potential, paving the way for personalized mental health care.
Abstract
Ketamine’s rapid acting symptom relief make it a promising intervention for PTSD. However, the mechanisms driving its long-term efficacy over weeks...
S100B+ Astrocytes Are Altered in the Mouse Brain Upon Ketamine Challenge: Implications for the Symptoms of Schizophrenia.
Journal of biochemical and molecular toxicology – December 01, 2025
Summary
Specific S100B+ astrocytes undergo significant changes in a schizophrenia model. Ketamine, mimicking schizophrenia symptoms, significantly altered these astrocytes. In mice, ketamine exposure changed S100B+ astrocytes in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and olfactory regions. Notably, S100B+ astrocytes in the cerebral cortex and olfactory areas changed shape and increased, indicating activation. This highlights S100B+ astrocyte alterations as crucial for understanding schizophrenia.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by positive, negative and cognitive symptoms. The pathophysiology of schizophren...
High Baseline Plasma Anthranilic Acid Predicts Remission Upon Acute-Series Ketamine Infusion for Treatment-Resistant Depression.
Biological psychiatry global open science – July 01, 2025
Summary
A blood compound called anthranilic acid may predict who will benefit most from ketamine therapy for severe depression. Higher levels of this naturally occurring substance were linked to better treatment outcomes in patients receiving ketamine infusions. This discovery could help doctors identify which patients with treatment-resistant depression are most likely to achieve remission through ketamine treatment.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a challenge, but intravenous racemic ketamine offers rapid antidepressant effects. Reliable biomarkers...
Non-response to short-term ketamine use for treatment-resistant depression.
Pharmacological reports : PR – April 30, 2025
Summary
While ketamine offers hope for severe mood disorders, new findings reveal surprising patterns in treatment response. Among patients with treatment-resistant depression, those with fewer psychiatric complications were actually less likely to benefit from ketamine therapy. This challenges traditional assumptions in psychopharmacology, suggesting that complex cases may respond better to ketamine than those with "pure" depression.
Abstract
Ketamine is currently gaining attention as a rapid-acting antidepressant for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). However, many patients fail to r...
General Anesthesia Occludes Ketamine's Antidepressant Response in a Rodent Model of Chronic Stress.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – December 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's antidepressant effects may depend on being conscious during treatment, new research reveals. When mice under general anesthesia received ketamine, they didn't experience the drug's typical antidepressant response. The findings suggest that being awake during ketamine therapy—including its dissociative subjective effects—could be crucial for relieving chronic stress and depression.
Abstract
Psychedelic-induced experiences are thought to play an important role in the therapeutic actions of rapid-acting antidepressants. General anesthesi...