Effects of Low-Dose Ketamine Infusion on Hopelessness and Suicidal Thoughts
Background
Low-dose ketamine infusion has been shown to reduce suicidal thoughts in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and strong suicidal ideation. However, its effects on hopelessness have been less studied.
Methods
84 patients with TRD and strong suicidal ideation were randomly assigned to receive a single infusion of either 0.5 mg/kg ketamine or 0.045 mg/kg midazolam. Hopelessness and suicidal symptoms were assessed at various time points post-infusion using the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS) and Positive and Negative Suicide Ideation Inventory (PANSI).
Results
Analysis revealed that the ketamine group had significantly higher positive suicidal ideation scores and lower negative suicidal ideation scores on Day 2 post-infusion compared to the midazolam group. Additionally, the ketamine group had significantly lower negative hopelessness scores at 240 minutes post-infusion.
Discussion
A single infusion of low-dose ketamine led to a brief yet significant reduction in hopelessness and subjective antisuicidal effects on Day 2 post-infusion. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these effects.
Trial Registration
UMIN Clinical Trials Registry identifiers: UMIN000033916 and UMIN000033760.
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