1731 results for "Ketamine"
Application of a nucleophilic substitution rection for spectrofluorimetric quantification of ketamine in pharmaceutical and plasma matrices.
Scientific reports – December 30, 2024
Summary
Scientists have developed a breakthrough eco-friendly method to detect ketamine, also known as "Super K" - a medication that's increasingly misused as a date-rape drug. This new testing approach uses fluorescent technology to identify even tiny amounts of ketamine in blood and medicine samples. The method is remarkably accurate, environmentally safe, and can detect concentrations as low as 2.37 ng/mL.
Abstract
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic drug that is abused by teenagers and young adults, commonly for recreational purposes in dance clubs, to gene...
Clinical indicators of the suicide crisis and response to ketamine.
Journal of affective disorders – March 01, 2025
Summary
Breakthrough findings show ketamine can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts and psychological pain in high-risk individuals. Researchers tracked 118 adults, focusing on those who recently experienced severe suicidal thoughts or attempts. The study revealed that depression, hopelessness, and traumatic stress peak during suicide crises. Importantly, targeted ketamine treatment helped alleviate these symptoms quickly.
Abstract
This analysis sought to identify potential clinical targets for the suicide crisis. Characteristics of a useful clinical target include elevation a...
Postoperative Ketamine May be Associated with Venous Thromboembolism in Chronic Opioid Users After Spine Surgery.
World neurosurgery – January 01, 2025
Summary
Pain control after spine surgery presents unique challenges, especially for long-term opioid users. New research reveals an unexpected connection between ketamine, a popular alternative pain medication, and blood clot formation. Analysis of 322 spine surgery patients showed that those receiving ketamine for post-surgical pain control had higher rates of venous thromboembolism, particularly among chronic opioid users. This finding suggests careful consideration is needed when selecting pain management strategies.
Abstract
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious postoperative adverse event after spine surgery. In patients with pain refractory to typical multimodal a...
Plasma leptin levels are lower in females, but not males, with ketamine use disorder.
The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse – September 02, 2024
Summary
Women with ketamine use disorder show uniquely altered leptin hormone levels compared to men, revealing important sex differences in addiction biology. Blood tests of 130 participants demonstrated that females with ketamine use disorder had consistently lower leptin levels than healthy women, while male levels remained normal. During early abstinence, men's leptin levels increased after two weeks, but women's remained low, suggesting distinct recovery patterns between sexes.
Abstract
Background: Ketamine has emerged as a prominent substance of misuse. Leptin, an adipocyte-derived polypeptide hormone, has been implicated in the d...
Intravenous ketamine successfully treats treatment-resistant catatonia in schizophrenia: A case report.
Pharmacotherapy – October 01, 2024
Summary
A single dose of ketamine provided rapid relief for a 77-year-old woman with severe catatonia linked to schizophrenia. When traditional treatments failed and COVID-19 prevented access to standard therapy, doctors successfully used an intravenous ketamine infusion. The patient recovered quickly from her symptoms of immobility and mutism, demonstrating a promising alternative for treating resistant catatonia.
Abstract
Benzodiazepines and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are mainstay treatments for catatonia, a potentially life-threatening psychomotor syndrome char...
KETAMINE: Neural- and network-level changes.
Neuroscience – November 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable ability to reshape brain connectivity offers new hope for treating mental health conditions. This groundbreaking research reveals how ketamine enhances neuroplasticity by promoting hyperconnectivity between brain regions and fine-tuning neural responses. The drug increases neural synchrony across brain networks while reducing firing variability, creating more robust connections between neurons. These changes in brain circuitry help explain ketamine's powerful therapeutic effects and its potential to rapidly improve mood disorders.
Abstract
Ketamine is a widely used clinical drug that has several functional and clinical applications, including its use as an anaesthetic, analgesic, anti...
The N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor hypothesis of ketamine's antidepressant action: evidence and controversies.
Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences – July 29, 2024
Summary
Ketamine offers new hope for depression treatment, working within hours instead of weeks like traditional antidepressants. The drug's remarkable antidepressant efficacy stems from its interaction with brain receptors called NMDARs. While the NMDAR hypothesis explains ketamine's rapid effects, other NMDAR inhibitors haven't shown the same success, suggesting complex mechanisms behind its antidepressant properties.
Abstract
Substantial clinical evidence has unravelled the superior antidepressant efficacy of ketamine: in comparison to traditional antidepressants targeti...
A Phase II Study About Efficacy and Safety of the Continuous IntraVenous Infusion of Ketamine as Adjuvant to Opioids in Terminally Ill Cancer Patients With Refractory Cancer Pain (CIVIK Trial).
The American journal of hospice & palliative care – March 01, 2025
Summary
New hope for terminally ill cancer patients suffering from stubborn pain: continuous ketamine infusion shows promising results when traditional pain medications fall short. In this breakthrough approach, doctors administered carefully controlled ketamine doses alongside opioids to help patients achieve better pain control. Half of the participants experienced significant relief, with 40% achieving their personal pain goals. This innovative treatment offers a valuable option for managing severe cancer pain in palliative care settings.
Abstract
Ketamine has been used to control refractory cancer pain as an adjuvant to opioids. We conducted a prospective phase II study to investigate the ef...
Impact of intra-operative ketamine on postoperative outcomes in abdominal surgery: a narrative review.
Translational gastroenterology and hepatology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Using ketamine during abdominal surgery can significantly reduce post-operative pain and decrease patients' need for opioid medications. When administered during surgery, ketamine helps manage pain more effectively, with patients reporting lower pain scores and requiring fewer pain medications in the crucial 24 hours after surgery. While some patients experienced side effects like hallucinations, the benefits of improved pain control make this approach promising for surgical care.
Abstract
Ketamine offers a promising solution to common postoperative issues in abdominal surgery, including pain, nausea, opioid use, and opioid-related si...
Ketamine subcutaneous continuous infusion for depressive symptoms at home: A case report beyond pain use.
Palliative & supportive care – October 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking home-based treatment offers hope for patients facing both chronic pain and depression. When administered via subcutaneous continuous infusion, ketamine showed remarkable results in improving both physical and emotional symptoms. In a notable case, a terminal cancer patient receiving home-based palliative care experienced significant relief from depressive symptoms and pain through carefully monitored ketamine treatment, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Ketamine has been widely used in refractory pain as an opioid adjuvant. Evidence suggests that ketamine can also have an essential role in easing d...
Pretreatment Brain White Matter Integrity Associated With Neuropathic Pain Relief and Changes in Temporal Summation of Pain Following Ketamine.
The journal of pain – September 01, 2024
Summary
Brain structure may predict how well ketamine treats chronic nerve pain. New research shows that the integrity of white matter pathways, particularly in the default mode network and pain control regions like the periaqueductal gray, correlates with how effectively ketamine reduces neuropathic pain and pain sensitivity in patients.
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is a prevalent condition often associated with heightened pain responsiveness suggestive of central sensitization. Neuroimagi...
Effectiveness of Ketamine for the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder - A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Clinical neuropsychiatry – February 01, 2024
Summary
Recent findings show ketamine could offer new hope for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients. Analysis of 10 clinical trials revealed significant symptom improvements in participants receiving ketamine treatment, with benefits lasting up to 4 weeks. The drug proved particularly effective at reducing core PTSD symptoms when administered through controlled infusions, offering a promising alternative for those who haven't responded to conventional treatments.
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an enduring condition characterized by a chronic course and impairments across several areas. Despite its ...
Low-dose ketamine infusion to facilitate opioid tapering in chronic non-cancer pain with opioid-use disorder: a historical cohort study.
Regional anesthesia and pain medicine – May 06, 2025
Summary
Low-dose ketamine shows promise in helping patients with chronic pain reduce their dependence on opioid analgesics. In a breakthrough finding, 68% of patients achieved a 50% reduction in opioid use after just 5 days of treatment. The study followed patients with opioid-related disorders who struggled to decrease their medication use through traditional methods. A brief hospital stay with ketamine infusion helped reduce daily opioid doses from 207mg to 92mg, with benefits lasting up to one year.
Abstract
Long-term opioid use is associated with pharmacological tolerance, a risk of misuse and hyperalgesia in patients with chronic pain (CP). Tapering i...
Fine-tuning neural excitation/inhibition for tailored ketamine use in treatment-resistant depression
arXiv Preprint Archive – February 04, 2021
Summary
Ketamine's ability to rapidly lift severe depression may depend on precisely balancing brain activity patterns. New findings show that when ketamine successfully treats resistant depression, it shifts neural patterns toward a "sweet spot" of stability by fine-tuning both excitatory and inhibitory brain signals. Using advanced brain imaging and mathematical modeling (q-bio.QM), researchers tracked neural responses in depressed patients, finding that those who improved most showed specific changes in brain circuit balance within hours of treatment.
Abstract
The glutamatergic modulator ketamine has been shown to rapidly reduce depressive symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive dis...
Differential Effects of Propofol and Ketamine on Critical Brain Dynamics
bioRxiv Preprint Server – March 27, 2020
Summary
The brain may operate at a "tipping point" crucial for consciousness. Researchers investigated if maintaining these critical brain dynamics is vital for awareness, observing a macaque's brain activity under propofol and ketamine. Propofol dramatically restricted activity patterns and complexity. Ketamine allowed more awake-like dynamics to persist. Both states, however, retained some critical features. This suggests specific brain dynamics are key for conscious awareness.
Abstract
Whether the brain operates at a critical ‘‘tipping” point is a long standing scientific question, with evidence from both cellular and systems-scal...
Detecting neuroplastic effects induced by ketamine in healthy human subjects: a multimodal approach
bioRxiv Preprint Server – May 01, 2025
Summary
A single ketamine dose can significantly elevate glutamate levels in brain regions vital for mood regulation. Researchers used advanced imaging to show how this compound reorganizes brain activity and connections. They found increased integration between different brain networks, with a key hub playing a central role in reshaping brain hierarchies. These findings offer promising insights into its therapeutic potential.
Abstract
We investigated ketamine’s neuroplastic effects in healthy human subjects using integrated Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/Magnetic Resonance Im...
The effects of dexmedetomidine and ketamine infusions on the inflammatory response in liver resection: A randomized double-blind placebo study.
Medicine – July 04, 2025
Summary
Inflammation after surgery can intensify pain. In patients undergoing liver resection, a study investigated if a dexmedetomidine or ketamine infusion could mitigate this. Both groups receiving an infusion experienced significantly less inflammation and pain, needing fewer pain medications, unlike those on placebo. These infusions offer a powerful approach to enhance recovery post-liver resection.
Abstract
This study compared the effects of ketamine and dexmedetomidine (Dex) on inflammation and pain in liver resection surgery. Forty-five American Soci...
Ketamine and its combination with pentazocine and meperidine for epidural anaesthesia in dogs
The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences – September 17, 2014
Summary
Combining certain pain medications can significantly extend their beneficial effects in veterinary medicine. Researchers explored how combining **ketamine** with other drugs for **epidural** administration affects pain relief in **dogs**. They compared **ketamine** alone against its combinations with **pentazocine** or **meperidine**, given via **epidural** injection. The combinations proved superior, providing quicker onset and significantly longer **analgesia**. Dogs recovered smoothly with minimal side effects. This confirms that combining **ketamine** with **pentazocine** or **meperidine** via **epidural** delivery offers highly effective and prolonged **analgesia** for **dogs**.
Abstract
Clinically healthy dogs (15) of either sex aged about 1 year were randomly grouped into 3 with 5 dogs each to study the effect of epidural administ...
Ketamine as primary anesthetic for upper limb trauma during war: a case series of 100 surgeries at Rafik Hariri University Hospital, Lebanon's National War Trauma Referral Center.
Future science OA – December 01, 2026
preprint
Summary
Following the Beirut pager explosions, trauma anesthesia at RHUH for 100 amputation surgeries dramatically improved with ketamine. Initially, opioid-based care led to 18 respiratory complications and 65% postoperative opioid use. After ketamine's introduction for mass casualty patients, pain scores dropped from 7.8 to 3.2, respiratory complications became zero, and only 5% required postoperative opioids. This opioid-sparing approach, crucial for conflict medicine, maintained stable blood pressure in 94% of patients, highlighting ketamine's effectiveness.
Abstract
The Beirut pager explosions on September 17, 2024 resulted in mass casualties with severe upper limb trauma admitted to Rafik Hariri University Hos...
Anhedonia nonresponse to short-term ketamine administration for treatment-resistant bipolar depression.
Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology – January 01, 2026
Summary
Nearly half of patients (45.2%) with treatment-resistant bipolar depression (TRBD) did not experience relief from anhedonia following short-term ketamine psychopharmacology. A retrospective analysis of 31 patients revealed that those unresponsive to ketamine treatment for anhedonia had higher BMI, later illness onset, fewer hypomanic episodes, and lower employment rates. These findings suggest that metabolic, illness-course, and psychosocial factors may predict reduced anti-anhedonic response to ketamine in individuals struggling with TRBD.
Abstract
Anhedonia is a key symptom of bipolar depression and a target of ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects. However, many patients with treatment-res...
Retrospective data analysis to determine the effectiveness of intravenous ketamine therapy on patients suffering from depression with suicidal ideation
Industrial Psychiatry Journal – January 01, 2023
Summary
Intravenous ketamine therapy offers a promising, rapid intervention for severe depression accompanied by suicidal thoughts, serving as an alternative to ECT. A retrospective analysis of patient treatment records revealed significant improvements in both depression symptoms and suicidality across all assessment points following ketamine administration. This suggests ketamine is an effective option for individuals requiring urgent psychiatric care, particularly when ECT is declined due to stigma or perceived risks. The findings underscore its value in managing acute mental health crises.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Background: Depression is often a debilitating and recurrent psychiatric disorder. Depression with suicidal ideation, being a psychiatric ...
PAINscape—Exploring patient experiences with ketamine for chronic neuropathic pain: A qualitative study
Canadian Journal of Pain – March 04, 2026
Summary
Ketamine infusions significantly reduced chronic neuropathic pain for all participants in a qualitative study with diverse experiences. Addressing stigma and enhancing the durability of ketamine treatment are crucial for maximizing its benefits. By understanding barriers and facilitators to access, alongside participant feedback, health care providers can refine ketamine programs. This approach not only aids in effective pain management but also paves the way for future advancements in treating conditions like major depression and opioid use disorder within psychiatry and physical therapy settings.
Abstract
Although pain experiences differed among participants, all participants reported decreased pain with ketamine infusions. Addressing the stigma asso...
Shared and distinct brain regions targeted for immediate early gene expression by ketamine and psilocybin
OpenAlex – March 20, 2022
Summary
Psilocybin, a psychedelic, significantly boosts neuroplasticity in at least 10 distinct brain regions, offering new insights for psychology and biology. Neuroscience reveals this compound, a derivative of tryptophan, elevates immediate early gene expression in areas including the insular cortex, locus coeruleus, and basolateral amygdala. Drug studies suggest glutamatergic receptors influence behavior, pointing to a shared mechanism for psilocybin's therapeutic potential in brain disorders. This highlights key areas for future investigation.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psilocybin is a psychedelic with therapeutic potential. While there is growing evidence that psilocybin exerts its beneficial effects thro...
Effect of Ketamine Analgosedation on Neurological Outcome in patients with Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study.
Neurocritical care – May 13, 2025
Summary
Ketamine, unlike other pain medications, can maintain blood pressure in brain-injured patients. In a groundbreaking trial, researchers explored ketamine analgosedation in patients with severe traumatic brain injury. While the drug temporarily improved blood pressure and reduced intracranial pressure, long-term neurological outcomes were similar between treated and untreated groups. However, patients receiving ketamine needed fewer blood pressure medications.
Abstract
Most of the sedative and analgesic drugs used in patients with head injury cause a dose-dependent decrease in blood pressure, which may further wor...
Adjunctive ketamine vs. buprenorphine in co-occurring major depressive disorder and opioid use disorder: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial assessing anxiety symptom severity and craving intensity.
Trials – April 17, 2025
Summary
Ketamine shows promising rapid relief for patients battling both depression and opioid addiction. In a groundbreaking clinical trial, ketamine outperformed buprenorphine in quickly reducing both anxiety and drug cravings. While buprenorphine provided gradual improvement over days, ketamine delivered significant relief within hours. This dual-action approach offers new hope for treating these challenging co-occurring conditions.
Abstract
The concomitant presence of major depressive disorder (MDD) and opioid use disorder (OUD) poses a formidable clinical challenge, warranting effecti...
Therapeutic Potential of Intravenous Ketamine in Early-Onset Dementia: A Case Report.
Cureus – July 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking case shows how IV ketamine brought renewed hope to a 56-year-old with treatment-resistant early-onset dementia. After standard medications failed, doctors administered intravenous ketamine infusions, leveraging its anti-inflammatory properties. The results were remarkable - the patient experienced significant improvements in memory, focus, and daily functioning. This innovative neurological approach suggests promising new possibilities for treating Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
Abstract
This case report discusses the use of intravenous (IV) ketamine as a potential therapeutic agent for early-onset dementia. A 56-year-old female wit...
Change in neurocognitive functioning in patients with treatment-resistant depression with serial intravenous ketamine infusions: The Bio-K multicenter trial.
Psychiatry research – May 01, 2024
Summary
Serial ketamine infusions not only improved severe depression in over half of patients but also enhanced cognitive function across multiple domains. In this groundbreaking open-label study, 74 people with treatment-resistant depression received intravenous ketamine treatments while their neurocognition was monitored using RBANS testing. Results showed improvements in memory, attention, and language skills, contradicting concerns about ketamine's cognitive effects.
Abstract
This nonrandomized, multicenter, open-label clinical trial explored the impact of intravenous (IV) ketamine on cognitive function in adults (n = 74...
Ketamine modulates a norepinephrine-astroglial circuit to persistently suppress futility-induced passivity
bioRxiv Preprint Server – December 29, 2022
Summary
Ketamine's antidepressant-like effects may surprisingly stem from its action on star-shaped brain cells called astroglia, not just neurons. Traditionally, mood-altering compounds are thought to primarily affect neurons. Research in zebrafish and mice revealed that ketamine elevates calcium within astroglia, a crucial step for persistently suppressing passive, futile behaviors. This suggests ketamine effectively combats passivity by modulating ancient brain pathways involving both neurons and astroglia, offering a novel understanding of its positive impact.
Abstract
Mood-altering compounds hold promise for the treatment of many psychiatric disorders, such as depression, but connecting their molecular, circuit, ...
Exploring the Neuroprotective and Neuropsychiatric Symptom Management Potential of Ketamine in Alzheimer's Disease.
Cureus – June 01, 2025
Summary
Beyond its use in anesthesia, ketamine shows surprising promise for Alzheimer's disease. Research in neuropharmacology suggests this NMDA receptor antagonist could modulate brain activity, enhancing synaptic function and reducing inflammation. Positive findings indicate ketamine's potential for managing challenging neuropsychiatric symptoms like depression and agitation often seen in Alzheimer's dementia, pointing to a new path for ketamine Alzheimer's treatment.
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, synaptic dysfunction, and neuroinflammatio...
Evaluation of the sedative effect of intranasal versus intramuscular ketamine in 2-6-year-old uncooperative dental patients.
Dental and medical problems – January 01, 2024
Summary
Helping anxious children stay calm during dental work is crucial, and ketamine sedation offers a solution. A comparison of intranasal and intramuscular delivery methods in young dental patients revealed that muscle injection produced better results. Children showed less movement and crying, while dentists reported improved cooperation. The intramuscular approach proved more effective for safe sedation in pediatric dentistry.
Abstract
Conscious sedation has gained more popularity these days, with different routes of drug administration having various advantages and disadvantages....
Combination of ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy in treatment resistant depression.
Journal of affective disorders – July 15, 2025
Summary
For severe depression that doesn't respond to standard treatments, combining ketamine with electroconvulsive therapy shows promise. When these powerful treatments work together, patients experienced significant mood improvements. The research tracked 30 individuals with treatment-resistant depression, comparing those receiving both therapies to those getting electroconvulsive therapy alone. Both approaches helped about two-thirds of patients recover, with most avoiding future hospitalizations.
Abstract
Ketamine and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are among the recommended treatments for treatment resistant depression (TRD). However, there is a sub...
Dexmedetomidine versus ketamine in improving tolerance to noninvasive ventilation after blunt chest trauma: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial.
Journal of anaesthesiology, clinical pharmacology – January 01, 2024
Summary
Pain management after chest injuries presents unique challenges for breathing support. A breakthrough study compared two sedation medications for patients requiring breathing assistance after blunt chest trauma. Both dexmedetomidine and ketamine helped patients tolerate non-invasive ventilation longer than those receiving placebo. While dexmedetomidine provided better sedation, ketamine offered superior pain control with less need for additional pain medication.
Abstract
Even though patient tolerance is critical to the success of noninvasive ventilation (NIV), research on using sedation to improve tolerance to NIV a...
Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) as an Alternative to General Anesthesia (GA): Prospective Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Study Comparing Efficacy and Safety of Dexmedetomidine and Ketamine Infusions with Ultrasonography (USG) Guided Pectoral Nerve Block (PECs) for Postoperative Analgesia in Breast Surgery.
Maedica – June 01, 2024
Summary
A new pain management approach for breast surgery combines nerve blocks with carefully selected medications, offering patients an alternative to full general anesthesia. In this breakthrough comparison, low-dose ketamine proved superior to dexmedetomidine when paired with targeted nerve blocks, providing longer-lasting pain relief and requiring fewer rescue pain medications. Patients maintained stable vital signs while experiencing effective pain control, marking a promising advance in surgical pain management.
Abstract
PECs blocks are usually combined for breast surgery under general anesthesia (GA) to provide postoperative analgesia rather than primary anesthesia...
IN Esketamine and IV Ketamine: Results of a multi-site observational study assessing the effectiveness and tolerability of two novel therapies for treatment-resistant depression.
Psychiatry research – October 01, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments show promise for patients who haven't responded to traditional antidepressants. Real-world clinical data from 53 patients reveals both intranasal esketamine and IV ketamine significantly reduced depressive symptoms in major depressive disorder. Both treatments demonstrated strong antidepressant effects and notably decreased suicidal ideation. The treatment response was similar between groups, with minimal side effects.
Abstract
Intravenous (IV) ketamine and intranasal (IN) esketamine are novel therapies to manage treatment resistant depression within major depressive disor...
Is the antidepressant effect of ketamine separate from its psychotomimetic effect? A review of rodent models.
Neuropharmacology – November 01, 2024
Summary
Ketamine's remarkable dual nature challenges medical understanding - it can both rapidly treat depression and temporarily mimic schizophrenia symptoms. Research reveals this occurs through its interaction with brain NMDA receptors, suggesting these contrasting effects may share underlying mechanisms. Animal studies show ketamine's antidepressant benefits can occur independently of its psychotic-like effects, opening new possibilities for targeted treatments.
Abstract
Ketamine is an NMDA (N-methyl-d-aspartate) glutamate receptor antagonist, which has a myriad of dose-dependent pharmacological and behavioral effec...
Intravenous ketamine for emergency department treatment of suicidal ideation in a paediatric population: protocol for a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm pilot trial (KSI study).
BMJ open – July 05, 2024
Summary
As youth suicide rates rise, emergency departments seek better solutions for immediate crisis care. This pioneering protocol explores ketamine's potential as a rapid treatment for suicidal thoughts in young patients. The hospital-based study will test a single IV dose against placebo in pediatric emergency cases, measuring changes in suicidal ideation over 7 days. This could transform how we help children in mental health emergencies.
Abstract
Suicidal ideation (SI) is a common and severe cause of morbidity in adolescents. Patients frequently present to the emergency department (ED) for c...
Ketamine Therapy in Complex Cases: A Cautionary Tale of Exacerbated Personality Traits and the Crucial Role of Comprehensive Follow-Up and Psychosocial Interventions.
Case reports in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
While ketamine therapy shows promise for depression, this medical report reveals important nuances in treatment outcomes. A 75-year-old woman experienced worsening symptoms post-treatment, highlighting how personality traits and individual circumstances can affect results. The findings emphasize the need for personalized treatment approaches and comprehensive follow-up care, particularly for patients with complex mental health histories.
Abstract
This case report examines the unexpected increase in suicidal ideation following ketamine infusion therapy in a 75-year-old female with a history o...
The association between ketamine and esketamine and suicidality: reports to the Food And Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).
Expert opinion on drug safety – June 21, 2024
Summary
Breakthrough treatments for severe depression show promise but require careful monitoring. Analysis of FDA adverse event reports reveals that while ketamine and esketamine effectively reduce suicide attempts in treatment-resistant depression, some patients reported increased suicidal thoughts. The data suggests these medications have complex effects on suicidality, with notably lower rates of actual suicide attempts compared to other treatments.
Abstract
Replicated evidence indicates that ketamine and esketamine reduce measures of suicidality in persons with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). It ...
Evaluation of Histopathologic Findings and Safety of Intravitreal Ketamine Administration on Vitreoretinal Tissue in Rat Model: A Pilot Study.
Journal of current ophthalmology – January 01, 2023
Summary
Ketamine, known for its anesthetic properties, shows promising safety when administered directly into the eye. In a groundbreaking investigation, researchers tested intravitreal ketamine injections in rats, monitoring eye tissue health. After one month, the treated eyes showed no signs of damage, inflammation, or adverse effects on the retina or optic nerve - suggesting this could be a safe approach for future eye treatments.
Abstract
To evaluate the safety and histological findings of intravitreal injection of ketamine in rats. Each rat received a total volume of 0.1 ml of ketam...
A Randomised Controlled Trial Comparing Ketamine versus Fentanyl for Procedural Sedation in the Emergency Department for Adults with Isolated Extremity Injury.
Malaysian orthopaedic journal – March 01, 2024
Summary
When managing painful injuries, choosing the right sedation medication can make all the difference. A comparison of ketamine and fentanyl for procedural sedation and analgesia in emergency department patients with extremity trauma showed both drugs effectively reduced pain scores from 8 to 3. While fentanyl patients experienced more temporary oxygen drops, ketamine patients had more nausea. Both medications proved equally safe and effective for pain control.
Abstract
Alleviating pain and anxiety of patients during procedures is an essential skill for an Emergency Physician (EP). Several sedatives and dissociativ...
Ketamine Infusion in a Resistant Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Patient in Bangladesh with Severe Suicidal Ideation: A Case Report.
Cureus – April 01, 2024
Summary
A groundbreaking treatment shows promise for severe OCD: Ketamine infusions helped a patient with resistant OCD overcome intense obsessions, compulsions, and suicidal thoughts. Weekly treatments over three weeks dramatically reduced symptoms, measured by multiple clinical scales. The patient showed lasting improvement in depression and anxiety, with benefits continuing through 12-week follow-up.
Abstract
Treatment of resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) typically results in insufficient symptom alleviation, and even long-term medication oft...
Effects of ketamine on frontoparietal interactions during working memory in macaque monkeys
bioRxiv Preprint Server – May 16, 2023
Summary
Brain communication breakdowns are key in conditions like schizophrenia. A recent investigation revealed how a drug, ketamine, disrupts working memory in monkeys. It weakens vital connections between frontal and parietal brain regions, mirroring aspects of human brain dysconnection. This finding highlights a promising model for developing new treatments.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is known as a syndrome of dysconnection among brain regions. As a model for this syndrome, low doses of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) r...
Metabolic patterns of new psychoactive substances: Methyl-ketamine and 2-oxo-PCE in rats using UHPLC-QTOF analysis.
Forensic science international. Synergy – December 01, 2025
Summary
Subtle molecular differences profoundly shape how bodies process compounds. Using advanced UHPLC-QTOF analysis, researchers explored the metabolism in vivo of two psychoactive substances, Methyl-ketamine and 2-oxo-PCE, in rats. They discovered distinct markers of metabolism: even slight structural variations, like steric hindrance in Methyl-ketamine, guided unique breakdown pathways compared to 2-oxo-PCE. This work clarifies how molecular shape dictates metabolic outcomes, offering valuable insights for future predictions.
Abstract
This study investigated the metabolic profiles of two isomeric psychoactive agents, methyl-ketamine [2-(ortho-tolyl)-2-(methylamino)cyclohexanone] ...
Functional Dysconnectivity of Frontal Cortex to Striatum Predicts Ketamine Infusion Response in Treatment-Resistant Depression.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology – December 29, 2020
Summary
Baseline functional connectivity in the frontostriatal network significantly predicts treatment response to low-dose ketamine infusion in patients with treatment-resistant depression. In a study involving 48 patients, those with decreased connectivity—particularly between the superior frontal cortex and striatum—showed a greater reduction in depression symptoms after a 0.2 mg/kg ketamine infusion. Notably, this hypoconnectivity was linked to improved outcomes, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for predicting treatment efficacy in this challenging condition.
Abstract
Frontostriatal disconnectivity plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder. However, whether the baseline functional c...
Efficacy of Psychoactive Drugs for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review of MDMA, Ketamine, LSD and Psilocybin
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – September 15, 2020
Summary
MDMA, a psychoactive drug, shows moderate evidence in clinical psychology for treating PTSD when combined with psychotherapy. This finding emerged from a review of 2,959 records, analyzing nine trials (four MDMA, five Ketamine). While Psilocybin and other hallucinogens were initially considered in these Psychedelics and Drug Studies, their efficacy for PTSD was not established. Ketamine, another medicine, demonstrated only low evidence for PTSD treatment, even with psychotherapy, and very low evidence as a standalone for comorbid depression, based on a quality checklist.
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review was to examine the efficacy of MDMA, ketamine, LSD, and psilocybin for the treatment of posttraumatic stress diso...
Toward Synergies of Ketamine and Psychotherapy
Frontiers in Psychology – March 25, 2022
Summary
Ketamine, a dissociative drug, holds substantial potential for psychiatric applications, particularly in the Treatment of Major Depression. Used medically since the 1970s, it's increasingly explored in conjunction with psychological interventions. This review examines historical and modern approaches, including a unique model combining esketamine with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Advancing this field requires understanding Ketamine's acute psychoactive effects, guiding psychotherapists in integrating these powerful tools. This contributes to broader Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Ketamine is a dissociative drug that has been used medically since the 1970s primarily as an anesthetic agent but also for various psychiatric appl...
Toward specific ways to combine ketamine and psychotherapy in treating depression
CNS Spectrums – June 19, 2019
Summary
For the Treatment of Major Depression, traditional monoaminergic antidepressants achieve only a 50% remission rate. Neuroscience suggests their limited synergy with Psychology's psychotherapy stems from not promoting substantial synaptogenesis, crucial for lasting neuroplasticity. Ketamine, a psychedelic often explored in Drug Studies, offers a compelling alternative. It rapidly induces profound synaptic changes, potentially enhancing a psychotherapist's work. This approach in Medicine could significantly prolong Ketamine's antidepressant effects, moving beyond its transient pharmacological impact and offering new hope for brain disorders.
Abstract
In major depression, remission rate in response to monoaminergic antidepressant is around 50%. The lack of strong synergies between classical antid...
Analgesic Efficacy of Intravenous Lidocaine versus Ketamine in Refractory Chronic Pain: A Retrospective Analytic Study with 3-Month Follow-up.
Pain medicine (Malden, Mass.) – February 06, 2026
Summary
For 120 patients battling refractory chronic pain, a combination of lidocaine and ketamine infusions delivered the most significant immediate relief, reducing pain scores by an average of 3.95 points. Lidocaine infusion alone reduced scores by 3.09, while ketamine infusion lowered them by 2.30. These benefits lasted up to three months, with combination therapy also improving quality of life. Only 7.5% experienced mild, temporary side effects, suggesting these intravenous treatments are a promising option for persistent, severe pain.
Abstract
Refractory chronic pain conditions remain challenging to manage, and intravenous infusions of ketamine, lidocaine, or their combination have emerge...
The Emerging Crisis in Non-Prescribed Ketamine Use: A Rapid Attenuation of Depression in Face of Abuse and "Chill-out" or Escapism Drug.
Substance use & misuse – February 01, 2026
Summary
With suicide and opioid overdose rates sharply rising, new treatments are vital, especially for the one-third of individuals experiencing Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD). Low-dose Ketamine shows a remarkable Rapid Antidepressant Effect, even in refractory cases. Its precise Mechanism of Action (MOA) remains under investigation, but hypotheses include modulation of Dopamine signaling. Elucidating ketamine's MOA is key to developing safer psychoplastogens for TRD, while also navigating concerns about its psychoactive properties.
Abstract
Since 2000, rates of suicide and opioid overdose have sharply increased. Approximately one-third of individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD...
Characterization of 17 unknown ketamine manufacturing by-product impurities by UHPLC-QTOF-MS.
Drug testing and analysis – August 01, 2024
Summary
Forensic analysis reveals 17 distinct impurities consistently present in seized ketamine, invaluable for profiling drug sources. Using UHPLC-Q-TOF, 150 samples were investigated, characterizing these impurities, each detected in over 10% of samples. All 17 share a deschloroketamine skeleton, differentiated by specific chlorine, hydroxyl, or methyl substitutions. This detailed impurity profiling provides crucial tactical intelligence for law enforcement, enhancing efforts to track illicit ketamine manufacturing and distribution.
Abstract
This study initially reported the selection and characterization of 17 unknown impurities attributed to the manufacture process of ketamine. A tota...