Rapid and Sustained Antidepressant Effects of Intravenous Ketamine
Key Findings
Results from a clinical trial showed that intravenous ketamine led to rapid and significant improvements in symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) and suicidal ideation.
Study Details
The trial involved 64 patients with treatment-resistant MDD, who were randomly assigned to receive either ketamine or a placebo. The effects were measured using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Scale and Beck’s Suicidal Ideation Scale.
Positive Outcomes
One hour after receiving ketamine, participants showed notable improvements in depression symptoms and suicidal ideation. These effects were sustained for up to two months after treatment.
Challenges
However, some participants experienced side effects such as increased heart rate, headache, dizziness, and dissociative syndrome symptoms.
Conclusion
The study suggests that ketamine has the potential to provide relief from depressive symptoms more quickly than traditional treatments, offering a valuable therapeutic option for patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Practical Solutions and Value
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