Therapeutic Potentials of Ketamine and Esketamine in Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and Eating Disorders (ED): A Review of the Current Literature
Brain Sciences June 27, 2021 Giovanni Martinotti, Stefania Chiappini, Mauro Pettorruso et al. 114 citations
Ketamine and esketamine, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists, show promise for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), eating disorders, and substance use disorders, which share features like obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. A review of literature up to April 2021, following PRISMA guidelines, found that while small studies indicate remarkable results for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and OCD, solid evidence for benefits in OCD spectrum and addiction is still lacking. The use is supported by glutamatergic neurotransmission dysregulation. Preliminary data are optimistic, but further studies are needed to clarify unknowns and long-term effectiveness.