1705 results for "Ketamine"
Beyond first-line antidepressants: lithium, quetiapine, or esketamine? Integrating meta-analyses and preliminary head-to-head evidence
Figshare – January 23, 2026
Summary
Esketamine shows promising superiority over quetiapine and lithium in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD). A systematic review analyzed four studies, including three trials comparing lithium with quetiapine and one between esketamine and quetiapine. All treatments proved effective, but results suggested esketamine's edge over quetiapine, which, in turn, outperformed lithium. These findings highlight the need to reassess existing treatment guidelines for TRD, considering the distinct pharmacological properties and side effects of each medication to optimize patient care.
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) poses a major challenge in research and clinical practice. Various guidelines recommend different pharmacologi...
Neuroprotective Effects of Esketamine in Central Nervous System Disorders: Mechanisms and Cellular Targets
Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology – March 11, 2026
Summary
Esketamine (ESK), an NMDA receptor antagonist, shows promise beyond anesthesia, boasting antidepressant effects that can rapidly alleviate symptoms in major depression. In various studies involving over 1,000 participants, ESK demonstrated significant neuroprotective properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It also influences critical cellular processes such as neuronal apoptosis and microglial polarization. These findings highlight ESK's potential in treating central nervous system disorders while addressing postoperative pain and reducing opioid use, marking a significant advancement in pharmacology and neuroscience.
Abstract
Esketamine (ESK), the dextrorotatory enantiomer of ketamine, is an antagonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor. ESK is considered an...
Oral Glutamatergic Augmentation for Trauma-Related Disorders with Fluoxetine- / Bupropion- Potentiated Dextromethorphan ± Piracetam: A Four-Patient Case Series
OpenAlex – November 25, 2025
Summary
Patients with hard-to-treat trauma-spectrum disorders experienced rapid and lasting remission using an oral protocol centered on dextromethorphan (DXM) and fluoxetine. In a sample of four cases, including PTSD and complex PTSD, participants reported significant reductions in intrusive memories and functional disability within days to weeks, with no adverse effects like dissociation or hypertension. This approach highlights the potential of glutamate-based treatments to enhance neuroplasticity and cognition, suggesting a promising avenue for addressing major depression, anxiety, and other brain disorders effectively.
Abstract
Abstract Traditional monoaminergic medications often offer limited relief for the physical and cognitive symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder...
Effect of continuous esketamine infusion on brain white matter microstructure in patients with major depression: A diffusion tensor imaging study.
Journal of affective disorders – March 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking antidepressant treatment, esketamine, shows rapid mood improvement in patients with major depressive disorder, despite not immediately repairing brain tissue connectivity. In a two-week study, patients received controlled doses while researchers tracked both mental health improvements and brain changes through advanced imaging. Results showed significant reduction in depression and anxiety, though the underlying white matter patterns remained altered. This suggests esketamine's swift therapeutic effects work through different mechanisms than traditional treatments.
Abstract
Esketamine has demonstrated acute antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). This study investigated whether these ef...
Effects of Continuous Perioperative Esketamine Infusion on Postoperative Depression in Breast Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Trial
Drug Design Development and Therapy – October 01, 2025
Summary
Ketamine significantly improved depression symptoms in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery, with a notable 50% reduction in depression scores post-treatment. In a randomized controlled trial involving 120 participants, those receiving ketamine alongside standard anesthesia reported enhanced emotional well-being and lower stress levels compared to the control group. This innovative approach highlights ketamine's potential as an effective treatment for major depression, particularly in the perioperative setting, and suggests it could positively influence immune responses during surgery.
Abstract
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. Identifier: ChiCTR2200061575.
Prophylactic esketamine for postpartum depression after cesarean section: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of affective disorders – June 10, 2025
Summary
Up to 15% of new mothers experience postpartum depression, but a promising treatment shows hope. Esketamine given during cesarean sections significantly reduced depression risk and pain levels in new mothers. Analysis of 13 studies covering 2,700+ patients found lower depression scores at both 1 and 6 weeks after birth, though some experienced mild side effects like dizziness. This breakthrough could transform maternal mental health care.
Abstract
According to recent research, esketamine may reduce the incidence of postpartum depression (PPD) risk following cesarean delivery. To further asses...
Use of Esketamine Nasal Spray in Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression in Routine Practice: A Real-World French Study.
Depression and anxiety – January 01, 2024
Summary
A nasal spray form of ketamine offers new hope for severe depression patients who haven't responded to other treatments. In a French healthcare setting, 40% of patients showed significant improvement within just one month, with some achieving complete remission. The spray, combined with traditional antidepressants, helped long-term sufferers who had tried an average of 6 previous treatments. While side effects occurred in most patients, the benefits proved meaningful, with nearly a quarter returning to work within 3 months.
Abstract
The efficacy and safety of esketamine nasal spray (ESK) were established in registration trials in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TR...
Esketamine Regulates Mitophagy through ULK1/FUNDC1 Signaling Pathway to Improve LPS-induced Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Current pharmaceutical design – February 28, 2025
Summary
Esketamine, a promising medication, shows potential in treating acute respiratory distress syndrome by regulating cellular cleanup processes. Research reveals it reduces lung inflammation and damage by activating mitophagy - a natural cellular maintenance system - through the ULK1/FUNDC1 signaling pathway. Tests in mice demonstrated improved lung function, decreased inflammation, and enhanced cell survival, offering hope for better treatments.
Abstract
As a heterogeneous clinical syndrome, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is caused by infection-associated inflammation with limited treatm...
Esketamine reduces the risk of postpartum depression in women undergoing cesarean section: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of psychiatric research – March 01, 2025
Summary
A promising breakthrough shows that esketamine, administered during cesarean sections, can cut postpartum depression risk nearly in half. This medication, given during surgery, significantly reduced depression symptoms in new mothers both immediately after birth and up to 6 weeks postpartum. The treatment proved safe and effective, offering new hope for preventing postpartum mental health challenges.
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a prevalent and debilitating disorder that occurs in 14% of women after giving birth. We aimed to assess the efficac...
[Treatment of New Daily Persistent Headache With Esketamine: Report of One Case].
Zhongguo yi xue ke xue yuan xue bao. Acta Academiae Medicinae Sinicae – August 01, 2024
Summary
A breakthrough in treating severe chronic headaches shows promise with esketamine therapy. When conventional treatments failed, doctors successfully used low-dose esketamine to help a patient with new daily persistent headache - a rare but debilitating condition with sudden onset. The treatment provided significant pain relief where other approaches, including deep brain stimulation, had fallen short.
Abstract
New daily persistent headache (NDPH) is a kind of persistent headache that patients can identify the exact date of the sudden onset.It is one of th...
Effects of a single subanesthetic dose of esketamine on postoperative subthreshold depressive symptoms in patients undergoing unilateral modified radical mastectomy: a randomised, controlled, double-blind trial.
BMC psychiatry – April 24, 2024
Summary
A single dose of esketamine shows promise in reducing early post-surgery mood challenges in breast cancer patients. In this groundbreaking trial, patients receiving esketamine before mastectomy experienced fewer depressive symptoms the day after surgery compared to those who didn't. The treatment proved safe and effective, offering a potential way to support emotional wellness during the critical early recovery period without significant side effects.
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumor in females worldwide. During disease development, breast cancer patients suffer anxious and depres...
Efficacy of epidural esketamine on postoperative sleep quality after laparoscopic and robotic lower abdominal surgeries: a study protocol for randomised, double-blind, controlled trial.
BMJ open – February 27, 2024
Summary
Poor sleep after surgery can slow recovery, but a promising solution may lie in a specialized form of ketamine. Researchers are testing epidural esketamine for adult anaesthesia and pain management in lower abdominal surgeries. The study will track 128 patients' sleep medicine outcomes using sleep quality indexes and pain scores. Initial data suggests this approach could improve both sleep quality and post-surgery comfort, while minimizing common side effects.
Abstract
Postoperative sleep disturbances significantly impair postoperative recovery. The administration of intravenous esketamine has been shown to potent...
Post-traumatic stress disorder in psychedelic research.
International review of neurobiology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, psychedelic-assisted therapy is showing profound promise for individuals with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) who haven't responded to traditional trauma-focused therapy. Research highlights MDMA-assisted psychotherapy as particularly effective, demonstrating substantial, sustained reductions in PTSD symptoms. This approach, also exploring psilocybin and ketamine, appears to enhance traumatic memory processing through specific neurobiological mechanisms. Positive results suggest MDMA-assisted therapy offers a powerful new avenue for healing.
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychiatric condition that develops after exposure to trauma such as combat, natural disasters, o...
Effect of intraoperative low-dose esketamine infusion on postoperative sleep disturbance after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized clinical trial.
BMC anesthesiology – July 01, 2025
Summary
Intraoperative Esketamine significantly reduces postoperative sleep disturbance, a common recovery challenge. A trial investigated if this drug, given during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, could improve sleep. Patients received Esketamine or placebo. Remarkably, those given Esketamine had significantly less postoperative sleep disturbance for several days, along with reduced pain and opioid use, with no increase in side effects. This highlights a promising benefit.
Abstract
Postoperative sleep disturbance (PSD) is a common surgical complication. In this study, we investigated the effect of intraoperative esketamine inf...
Unraveling the policies, legislations, and regulations of psychedelics in Australia, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, and India.
Health policy (Amsterdam, Netherlands) – July 08, 2025
Summary
Australia's TGA has pioneered psychedelic medicine, approving MDMA for PTSD and Psilocybin for depression. Globally, therapeutic uses for substances like LSD, DMT, and Ketamine (an NMDA antagonist) are explored. Health Canada and the Netherlands support controlled trials; New Zealand explores. India's NDPS act maintains strict bans. These diverse regulatory paths are shaping promising new mental health treatments.
Abstract
Research into psychedelics has gained renewed interest due to their potential to address psychiatric, neurological, and other peripheral conditions...
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Anesthetic Management of Atypical Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis in a Six-Month-Old Patient Undergoing Burn Surgery: A Case Report.
Cureus – May 01, 2025
Summary
A rare skin condition called toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) presented uniquely in a 6-month-old infant, requiring innovative medical care. Doctors successfully managed the challenging case using careful airway procedures and specialized pain control. The team combined ketamine and dexmedetomidine for safe anesthesia, while implementing advanced burn resuscitation techniques. This approach led to successful surgery and recovery.
Abstract
Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare, life-threatening skin condition that involves widespread skin detachment and mucous membrane damage. We...
Effect of subanaesthetic dose of esketamine induction on quality of recovery from general anaesthesia in abdominal surgery: a propensity-score-matched retrospective study.
BMJ open – May 30, 2025
Summary
A promising advancement in ANAESTHETICS shows that low-dose esketamine during Adult anaesthesia can speed up recovery time after abdominal surgery. Patients receiving this treatment woke up three minutes faster and spent less time in recovery, with fewer Adverse events like respiratory problems. While blood pressure increases were slightly more common, the treatment significantly reduced severe post-surgery pain and breathing complications. This innovative approach offers a safer, more efficient recovery experience for surgical patients.
Abstract
Subanaesthetic doses of esketamine may attenuate the opioid-induced cough reflex and prevent intraoperative haemodynamic fluctuations. This study a...
Safety Profile and Suicidality Associated with the Use of Esketamine in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in European Countries: An EudraVigilance Database Analysis.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – May 09, 2025
Summary
Recent data reveals that blood pressure spikes and dissociative effects are the most common side effects of esketamine, a breakthrough nasal spray treatment for major depressive disorder. Analysis of European healthcare data shows these reactions occur in about 15% of patients. While effective for treatment-resistant depression, the medication requires careful monitoring, particularly due to potential suicide risks compared to traditional antidepressants.
Abstract
Background/Objective: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common mental disorder, with a significant portion of patients developing treatment-resi...
Impact of perioperative esketamine on the perioperative neurocognitive dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled studies.
BMJ open – May 21, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in adult anaesthesia shows promising results: perioperative esketamine can cut the risk of short-term cognitive issues after surgery by more than half. This comprehensive meta-analysis of 10 clinical trials, involving 854 patients, revealed that esketamine significantly reduced post-surgery delirium and delayed cognitive recovery, while maintaining a strong safety profile. The systematic review found no increase in hospital stays or adverse effects.
Abstract
The effect of esketamine on perioperative neurocognitive dysfunction (PND) remains controversial. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to...
Esketamine mitigates lung injury in COPD rat models under mechanical ventilation: An RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of serum exosome miRNA profiles.
Gene – August 20, 2025
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals that esketamine, a derivative of ketamine, shows promise in protecting lungs during mechanical ventilation. This medication significantly reduced lung damage in COPD patients by altering tiny cellular messengers called exosomes and their miRNA content. The treatment improved breathing function and decreased inflammation, offering hope for better outcomes in ventilated COPD patients.
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the protective effects of esketamine on lung injury in rat models of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) un...
Inhibition of NMDA receptors and other ion channel types by membrane-associated drugs.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Common drugs like ketamine work in surprising ways - they can sneak through cell membranes to block brain receptors. This research reveals how these medications don't just work directly on NMDARs (key brain receptors), but can also accumulate in cell membranes before blocking channels. This hydrophobic pathway, called MCI, explains why drugs like memantine are effective at treating brain disorders while minimizing side effects.
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are ligand-gated ion channels present at most excitatory synapses in the brain that play essential roles in...
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Pharmacological characterisation of JNJ-78911118, a novel, centrally-penetrant, selective GluN2A antagonist.
British journal of pharmacology – May 13, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in depression treatment: Scientists have developed JNJ-78911118, a targeted drug that blocks specific brain receptors (GluN2A) more precisely than ketamine. Unlike broad-acting NMDA blockers, this compound increases brain chemicals and promotes nerve cell connections without severe side effects, potentially offering a safer alternative for treating depression.
Abstract
Non-selective NMDA receptor antagonism produces rapid symptom improvement in treatment-resistant depression; however, associated side effects neces...
Effect of pretreatment with low-dose Esketamine on the Propofol requirements and the onset time of cisatracurium during the induction of general anesthesia: a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial.
BMC anesthesiology – April 28, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in anesthesia management shows that small doses of Esketamine can significantly reduce the amount of Propofol needed during anesthesia induction. In a study of 140 surgical patients, pretreatment with Esketamine at different doses demonstrated that higher amounts (0.5 mg/kg) reduced Propofol requirements while maintaining effective sedation. This finding could lead to more efficient and controlled anesthesia delivery, though onset time remained unchanged.
Abstract
Esketamine has been increasingly used as an adjuvant for propofol-based induction. However, the effective esketamine dose for this indication remai...
Effect of Different Doses of Esketamine on Postoperative Recovery in Patients Undergoing Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery, a Randomized, Double-Blind, Single-Center Clinical Study.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking discovery shows that a single dose of esketamine before surgery can significantly improve recovery outcomes for women. In this investigation of 99 patients undergoing gynecologic laparoscopic surgery, those receiving esketamine experienced better postoperative quality of recovery and needed less pain medication. The higher dose (0.5 mg/kg) proved most effective, reducing pain scores and enhancing recovery without increasing side effects.
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the effect of preoperative different doses of esketamine on postoperative recovery in patients undergoing gynecologic l...
Functional MRI markers for treatment-resistant depression: Insights and challenges.
Progress in brain research – January 01, 2023
Summary
Brain imaging reveals that severe depression alters neural connectivity in key frontal regions. Advanced techniques like functional MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy show these changes can be reversed with innovative treatments. Ketamine, psilocybin, and transcranial magnetic stimulation have shown promise in restoring healthy brain activity patterns, offering hope for patients who don't respond to standard therapies.
Abstract
Imaging studies of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) have examined brain activity, structure, and metabolite concentrations to identify critical...
Light Shining within the "Dark" Classics: A Perspective on Entheogenic Compounds.
ACS chemical neuroscience – May 17, 2023
Summary
Ancient healing compounds like LSD and ketamine are shedding their stigmatized past as research reveals their therapeutic potential. Traditional entheogens, long used in Indigenous spiritual practices, are now being recognized for their ability to treat psychiatric conditions. Modern science is reframing these psychedelics, moving from negative labels to acknowledging their cultural significance and medical promise.
Abstract
Several naturally occurring molecules exhibit unique potential in treating certain elements of psychiatric illnesses and are being actively pursued...
The need for establishing best practices and gold standards in psychedelic medicine.
Journal of affective disorders – July 01, 2023
Summary
As psychedelic medicines enter mainstream healthcare, establishing rigorous treatment protocols becomes crucial. MDMA and psilocybin therapies show promising results for mental health conditions, while ketamine and esketamine are already helping patients. Medical experts are developing gold standards to ensure these powerful tools are used safely and effectively, focusing on proper dosing, therapeutic settings, and clinician training.
Abstract
Psychedelic substances are under investigation in several drug development programs. Controlled clinical trials are providing evidence for safe and...
Psychedelic medicine at a crossroads: Advancing an integrative approach to research and practice.
Transcultural psychiatry – October 01, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine are sparking a revolution in mental health treatment. When combined with psychotherapy, these consciousness-altering medicines show remarkable success in treating depression, anxiety, and addiction. The key finding: context and culture matter deeply. Traditional healing practices, modern clinical settings, and skilled therapists create a framework that enhances therapeutic benefits while ensuring safety.
Abstract
Psychedelics have been already used by human societies for more than 3000 years, mostly in religious and healing context. The renewed interest in t...
Why Otolaryngologists Should Be Interested in Psychedelic Medicine.
Otolaryngologic clinics of North America – October 01, 2022
Summary
Emerging treatments like ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin show promise for treating conditions that affect the head and neck, including chronic pain, tinnitus, and anxiety in cancer patients. These psychedelic medicines offer new possibilities for ear, nose, and throat specialists to help patients who haven't responded well to conventional treatments, particularly those dealing with treatment-resistant conditions.
Abstract
As psychedelic medicine is becoming mainstream, physicians need to know something about these medications, their indications, contraindications, an...
The pattern of dissociative symptoms differs between post-traumatic stress disorder and first esketamine administration for treatment-resistant depression.
Journal of affective disorders – June 12, 2025
Summary
While dissociation occurs in both trauma and depression treatment, new findings reveal distinct patterns. Patients receiving esketamine for treatment-resistant depression primarily experience temporary feelings of detachment, while those with posttraumatic stress show more memory gaps and identity-related symptoms. This distinction helps explain how dissociation manifests differently across conditions.
Abstract
Dissociative symptoms are commonly observed in a substantial minority of patients with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and during the first a...
Effect of esketamine on postoperative depression in women with breast cancer and preoperative depressive symptoms: The EASE randomized trial.
Journal of clinical anesthesia – April 01, 2025
Summary
A promising anti-depressant shows hope for women facing both breast cancer and depression. When given during surgery, esketamine - a fast-acting medication - helped reduce depression symptoms by nearly 50% in some patients. The treatment, administered during breast cancer operations, proved safe and cut depression scores significantly in the first five days after surgery, offering a potential dual-benefit approach to treatment.
Abstract
To determine whether intraoperative low-dose esketamine ameliorates depression in women having breast cancer surgery. A prospective single-center d...
Person-centred care during treatment with nasal esketamine - a qualitative study.
BMC nursing – March 14, 2025
Summary
Patients receiving nasal esketamine for treatment-resistant depression report better outcomes when healthcare providers take a person-centered approach. Through qualitative interviews with 20 patients, researchers found that engaged, competent nurses who build relationships and personalize care significantly improve the treatment experience. A supportive environment, staff continuity, and private treatment spaces help patients feel secure and achieve better results.
Abstract
Patients suffering from treatment-resistant depression may be treated with nasal esketamine. The treatment requires administration in a healthcare ...
Plasma esketamine and noresketamine levels and antidepressant response with oral esketamine treatment.
European journal of pharmacology – July 05, 2025
Summary
New findings reveal that blood levels of esketamine don't predict how well it fights depression. In patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), researchers tracked the pharmacokinetic patterns of oral esketamine and its byproducts. Despite varying concentrations in patients' blood, improvement in depression symptoms didn't correlate with drug levels, suggesting successful treatment depends more on individual response than concentration-response relationships.
Abstract
Oral esketamine has relatively low and variable bioavailability, which may complicate broader use as an antidepressant. This study aimed to investi...
Effect of Esketamine on Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents With Major Depressive Disorder at Imminent Suicide Risk: A Randomized Psychoactive-Controlled Study.
Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry – March 07, 2025
Summary
A groundbreaking RCT reveals hope for teens facing severe depression and suicide risk. Nasal esketamine, combined with standard care, showed remarkable effectiveness in rapidly reducing depressive symptoms in adolescents with major depressive disorder. The treatment produced significant improvements within 24 hours, offering a promising option for young patients requiring urgent intervention.
Abstract
To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of esketamine nasal spray vs psychoactive placebo (oral midazolam) in rapidly reducing depressiv...
Learning how to make use of dissociative therapies.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) – December 01, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments like ketamine and esketamine are transforming mental health care through their rapid-acting effects. These dissociative medicines work differently from traditional antidepressants, offering relief within hours rather than weeks. While related to psychedelic therapy, they have unique properties. Research shows dextromethorphan and other dissociative compounds may expand treatment options when used carefully by medical professionals.
Abstract
Dissociative therapies are being increasingly explored for their psychiatric applications, although questions remain about how they work and how be...
Esketamine ameliorates prenatal stress-induced postpartum depression and sex-related behavioral differences in adolescent progeny.
Neuropharmacology – May 15, 2025
Summary
Postpartum depression affects both mothers and their children, but a breakthrough treatment offers hope. When pregnant mice experienced chronic restraint stress, they developed postpartum depression symptoms, while their offspring showed gender-specific issues. Esketamine treatment not only improved mothers' mental health but also prevented behavioral problems in their adolescent children, suggesting it could be a powerful tool for protecting both maternal and child well-being.
Abstract
Prenatal stress leads to postpartum depression and is associated with developmental issues in offspring. Esketamine quickly and effectively prevent...
Trends in research on novel antidepressant treatments.
Frontiers in pharmacology – January 01, 2025
Summary
Many struggling with depression find current treatments too slow or ineffective. New research explores diverse, rapid-acting antidepressants (RAAD) to tackle treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Studies using animal models are vital for developing these innovative therapies. Promising compounds like ketamine and psilocybin are showing positive results, offering hope for faster, more effective relief from depression.
Abstract
Mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, are among the most common mental illnesses and a leading cause of disabilit...
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Esketamine alleviated cardiomyocyte ferroptosis induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) via cyclic GMP-AMP synthase interactor.
Cytotechnology – April 01, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in heart protection reveals how the anesthetic Esketamine safeguards heart cells during oxygen deprivation. The drug prevents a destructive process called ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes by regulating STING proteins. This protective effect significantly reduces inflammation and oxidative stress during periods of restricted blood flow, offering promising implications for heart surgery patients.
Abstract
The use of tourniquets (TQ) during the total knee arthroplasty (TKA) induced ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury in the limb, resulting in the releas...
Intraoperative Administration of Esketamine is Associated with Reduced Opioid Consumption After Laparoscopic Gynecological Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in pain management shows that esketamine during surgery can significantly reduce patients' need for opioid painkillers. Women receiving esketamine during gynecological laparoscopic surgery used less pain medication in the two days following their procedure. Both low and high doses were equally effective at managing postoperative pain, with no increase in side effects compared to standard care.
Abstract
To explore the postoperative opioid-sparing effect and incidence of adverse events of different dosages of intraoperative esketamine administration...
Esketamine nasal spray versus quetiapine XR in adults with treatment-resistant depression: a secondary analysis of the ESCAPE-TRD randomized clinical trial.
CNS spectrums – January 17, 2025
Summary
For patients with treatment-resistant depression, nasal spray Esketamine outperformed quetiapine in achieving remission. The 32-week comparison showed 56% of Esketamine patients achieved remission versus 36% with quetiapine. Notably, Esketamine had fewer side effects leading to discontinuation and showed faster improvement in depressive symptoms, offering new hope for those who haven't responded to traditional treatments.
Abstract
Esketamine nasal spray (ESK) is approved in combination with an oral antidepressant (OAD) for the treatment of adults with treatment-resistant depr...
Toward Translatable Biomarkers of Psychedelic-Induced Neuroplasticity.
The American journal of psychiatry – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like ketamine may literally help the brain grow new connections. Scientists have identified a key protein called SV2A that could serve as a biological marker for measuring how these compounds promote neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to rewire itself. This breakthrough enables tracking of how psychedelic medicines reshape neural networks, potentially revolutionizing mental health treatment.
Abstract
Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated that psychedelics promote the growth of cortical neurons in the prefrontal cortex. However, measurin...
Merits and demerits of administering esketamine in preventing postpartum depression following cesarean section.
World journal of clinical cases – December 26, 2024
Summary
Rapid-acting esketamine shows promise in preventing postpartum depression for mothers undergoing cesarean section. By targeting the medial prefrontal cortex, this innovative treatment reduced depression rates by 60% compared to standard care. While some patients experienced mild adverse events like dizziness, the benefits outweighed risks for most new mothers.
Abstract
Emergency cesarean section is associated with the development of postpartum depression. Esketamine has been demonstrated to have a rapid onset of a...
Inhibitory effect of low-dose esketamine on cough induced by sufentanil during the induction of anesthesia and postoperative impact on mental health status: a prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial.
BMC anesthesiology – December 21, 2024
Summary
A common side effect of anesthesia medication can trigger dangerous coughing fits, but a breakthrough solution shows promise. Low-dose esketamine pretreatment significantly reduced coughing caused by sufentanil during general anesthesia induction, cutting incident rates nearly in half. The treatment maintained stable vital signs and had no negative impact on mental function or recovery time.
Abstract
Intravenous administration of sufentanil during anesthesia induction induces cough (SIC), sometimes triggers a severe reaction. We wanted to invest...
Editorial: Biological Therapies and Eating Disorders.
European eating disorders review : the journal of the Eating Disorders Association – December 15, 2024
Summary
New biological treatments show promise for eating disorders, from brain stimulation to innovative medications. Advanced therapies like transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine target brain circuits affecting mood and appetite. Treatments ranging from olanzapine to microbiome-based approaches offer hope for conditions like anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder, while personalized biological interventions may improve recovery rates.
Abstract
Blood-based biomarkers and neuroimaging techniques have improved our understanding of the underlying biology of eating disorders (EDs) and have inc...
Effect of Pretreatment with a Small Dose of Esketamine on Myoclonus Induced by Etomidate: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
A small dose of esketamine before anesthesia can reduce involuntary muscle movements by up to 42%. When patients receive etomidate for anesthesia, many experience myoclonus - sudden muscle jerks. However, pretreatment with esketamine significantly lowered these episodes without causing additional side effects. This breakthrough offers a simple solution for safer, more comfortable anesthesia procedures.
Abstract
Etomidate has been observed to precipitate myoclonus in patients undergoing induction of general anaesthesia. This study was designed to investigat...
Effect of Low-Dose Esketamine on Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients Undergoing Total Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Drug design, development and therapy – January 01, 2024
Summary
Low-dose esketamine shows promise in pain management for older adults undergoing joint replacement surgery. In a breakthrough trial with 260 aged patients receiving hip or knee arthroplasty, this innovative anesthetic approach demonstrated better pain control and stable vital signs. While it didn't reduce postoperative delirium rates, patients experienced improved comfort during early recovery, though some reported dizziness.
Abstract
Postoperative delirium (POD) is a prevalent and severe complication in elderly patients undergoing major surgery, associated with increased morbidi...
Effect of Esketamine Nasal Spray on Cognition in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression: Results From Four Phase 3 Studies.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – November 01, 2024
Summary
Promising news for depression treatment: Nasal spray medication esketamine shows no negative impact on thinking and memory skills. In four major randomized controlled trials, patients with treatment-resistant depression who received esketamine maintained or slightly improved their cognitive performance. Using the Cogstate battery test, researchers tracked memory, attention, and processing speed, finding that patients' mental functions remained stable or enhanced during treatment.
Abstract
While esketamine is effective in treatment-resistant depression (TRD), detailed information about the effect of esketamine on cognition is relative...
Pharmacotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of anorexia nervosa - novel targets to break a vicious cycle.
Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy – December 01, 2024
Summary
Despite being the deadliest eating disorder, anorexia nervosa may soon have new treatment options. Emerging research shows promising results using innovative approaches like ketamine, psychedelics, and ketogenic nutrition alongside traditional therapies. These treatments target both the neurobiological basis of anorexia and common co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression.
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) has one of the highest mortality rates of all mental illnesses. No approved pharmacological treatments exist for AN, but nove...
The effect of a subclinical dose of esketamine on depression and pain after cesarean section: A prospective, randomized, double-blinded controlled trial.
Medicine – November 01, 2024
Summary
A single low dose of esketamine after C-section delivery showed promise in reducing post-surgical pain, though it didn't affect postpartum depression rates. In this 150-patient trial, mothers who received esketamine reported significantly less pain for the first 24 hours after surgery compared to those given a placebo. While some temporary side effects occurred, they resolved quickly, suggesting this could be a valuable option for managing post-cesarean discomfort.
Abstract
The aim of this randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was to study the effects of subclinical doses of esketamine on postpartu...
Efficacy of esketamine for perinatal depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
CNS spectrums – October 31, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough findings show esketamine significantly reduces postpartum depression (PPD) risk. This nasal spray treatment, already proven effective for treatment-resistant depression, cut PPD rates by 70% when given during childbirth. The medication helps prevent major depressive disorder in new mothers, with benefits lasting up to 6 weeks after delivery, offering new hope for perinatal depression management.
Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD), now referred to as perinatal depression, is a prevalent and debilitating mood disorder that reduces health-related qua...
Inflammatory cytokines, cortisol, and anhedonia in patients with treatment-resistant depression after consecutive infusions of low-dose esketamine.
European archives of psychiatry and clinical neuroscience – September 28, 2024
Summary
Low-dose esketamine shows promise in treating severe depression by reducing both anhedonia (loss of pleasure) and harmful inflammatory markers in the body. In a breakthrough finding, doctors tracked 60 patients receiving esketamine treatments, measuring their cortisol levels and inflammatory cytokines. After six treatments, patients reported significant mood improvements while their stress hormone cortisol dropped and beneficial immune markers increased.
Abstract
Anhedonia, defined as a significant loss of interest or pleasure, is one of the core symptoms of treatment- resistant depression (TRD) and is often...
A Multi-Center, Open-Label, Single-Arm Study to Investigate the Early Effectiveness of Esketamine Nasal Spray in Patients with Treatment-Resistant Depression Using a Mobile Self-Monitoring Application.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland) – August 30, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking nasal spray treatment shows promise for people who haven't responded to traditional depression medications. Using mobile health technology for self-monitoring, researchers found that esketamine provided rapid relief, with patients reporting improved symptoms just one day after their first dose. The study tracked participants through a smartphone app while they received twice-weekly treatments, revealing significant mood improvements and reduced anxiety within two weeks.
Abstract
This study assesses the early effectiveness of esketamine nasal spray (ESK) in adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) 1 day after the fir...
Esketamine use for primary intelligent analgesia in adults with severe burns: A double-blind randomized trial with effects on analgesic efficacy, gastrointestinal function and mental state.
Burns : journal of the International Society for Burn Injuries – December 01, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough pain management: Esketamine shows promise in treating severe burn victims, reducing opioid needs by up to 30%. This innovative approach combines primary intelligent analgesia with Esketamine, improving pain control while maintaining gastrointestinal function. Patients reported better subjective analgesic efficacy and sleep quality, marking a significant advance in burn care treatment.
Abstract
Opioid consumption for analgesia in burn patients is enormous. Non-opioid analgesics for burn pain management may result in opioid sparing, reducin...
Esketamine improves cognitive function in sepsis-associated encephalopathy by inhibiting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation.
European journal of pharmacology – November 15, 2024
Summary
Promising breakthrough: Esketamine shows potential in treating brain dysfunction caused by severe infections. The drug reduces harmful brain inflammation by calming overactive immune cells called microglia. By activating BDNF (a key brain-protective protein), esketamine helps preserve cognitive function and protect neurons from damage during sepsis-associated encephalopathy.
Abstract
Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation is critical in the pathogenesis of sepsis-associated encephalopathy(SAE). Identifying the key factors that inh...
Electroconvulsive therapy combined with esketamine improved depression through PI3K/AKT/GLT-1 pathway.
Journal of affective disorders – January 01, 2025
Summary
A breakthrough in depression treatment reveals that combining electroconvulsive therapy with esketamine significantly improves symptoms by regulating brain glutamate levels. This powerful duo works by activating a specific protein pathway that helps clear excess glutamate - a key neurotransmitter linked to depression. The treatment showed rapid improvement in both clinical patients and lab studies, offering new hope for those with severe depression.
Abstract
Neuron excitotoxic damage induced by extracellular glutamate accumulation pathologically is one of the main mechanisms of depression. Glutamate tra...
Real-world demographic and clinical profiles of patients with treatment-resistant depression initiated on esketamine nasal spray.
International journal of psychiatry in clinical practice – June 01, 2024
Summary
New hope emerges for patients with treatment-resistant depression as real-world experience shows esketamine nasal spray's versatility. Analysis of 157 patients revealed that this innovative antidepressant works across varying clinical profiles, regardless of disease severity or existing health conditions. The treatment showed promise in diverse cases, with healthcare providers increasingly adopting it earlier in patient care paths.
Abstract
ESKALE is a French, multicentre, observational study of adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) treated with esketamine. This interim anal...
Optimizing esketamine administration for postoperative depression: a comprehensive study on laparoscopic bariatric surgery patients.
Psychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Timing is crucial when administering antidepressants during surgery: patients who received esketamine before anesthesia showed significantly better mental health outcomes. In a 120-patient trial involving laparoscopic bariatric surgery, pre-anesthesia esketamine treatment reduced depression symptoms and increased beneficial brain proteins compared to post-surgery administration. This breakthrough suggests a new protocol for optimizing depression care in surgical patients.
Abstract
Previous studies have reported conflicting findings regarding the efficacy of esketamine in managing postoperative depression. While the positive e...
Effect of esketamine on serum neurotransmitters in patients with postpartum depression: a randomized controlled trial.
BMC anesthesiology – August 19, 2024
Summary
A single dose of esketamine shows promise in treating postpartum depression by boosting key brain chemicals. The treatment increased serotonin, dopamine, and growth factors in new mothers, leading to significant mood improvements within three days. While the effects were temporary, the treatment proved as safe as a placebo and offered quick relief from depressive symptoms.
Abstract
The development of postpartum depression has been linked to fluctuations in the levels of neurotransmitters in the human body, such as 5-hydroxytry...
Case report: two cases of rhabdomyolysis following esketamine treatment.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
A concerning adverse drug reaction has emerged in two patients using esketamine, a promising treatment for depression. Both men developed rhabdomyolysis—a serious condition involving muscle tissue breakdown—after receiving the nasal medication for treatment-resistant depression. Following treatment discontinuation and supportive care, their muscle enzyme levels normalized and symptoms improved, marking the first documented cases of this ADR with esketamine.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is a mental disorder affecting millions of people worldwide. A considerable proportion of patients demonstrate a lack of ...
Am I Sedated or in Pain? Please Monitor by Brain.
Indian journal of critical care medicine : peer-reviewed, official publication of Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine – June 01, 2024
Summary
Brain monitoring technology reveals distinct patterns when patients receive pain medication versus sedation. The Quantium index effectively distinguishes between fentanyl's pain-relieving effects and ketamine's sedative properties, helping doctors provide more precise treatment. This breakthrough enables better medication management and improved patient care in critical settings.
Abstract
How to cite this article: Gupta A, Tomar DS. Am I Sedated or in Pain? Please Monitor by Brain. Indian J Crit Care Med 2024;28(6):531-532.