A review of the current literature on ketamine for social withdrawal in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) found only two original studies and five case reports. The two studies showed mixed results: esketamine produced no statistically significant improvement, while intravenous ketamine alleviated social withdrawal symptoms, especially in the short term. Neither study reported many serious adverse events. The five case reports indicated decreased depressive symptoms and some evidence of improved social functioning. Evidence for improved social condition exists, but research is limited, and further studies with larger samples and varied doses and administration methods are needed.
Delta-8-THC, a cannabinoid gaining popularity, poses significant psychiatric risks including psychosis, mood lability, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, particularly in individuals with preexisting conditions, despite being less intoxicating than delta-9-THC. A review of six case reports involving 9 patients, mostly males in their 20s with varied psychiatric histories, found that symptoms and clinical outcomes varied. The lack of FDA regulation and easy availability of delta-8-THC products heighten these risks, highlighting the need for more rigorous studies to inform regulatory actions.