Effects of a Single Sub-Anesthetic Dose of Ketamine in Tobacco Use Disorder: An Active-Placebo, Randomized Crossover Study
Brain Sciences April 30, 2026 Nathan R Luzum, Marcia H. Mccall, Charlotte Talley Boyd et al.
A single sub-anesthetic dose of ketamine, compared to midazolam, produced a non-significant reduction in the number of cigarettes smoked during a requested abstinence period among 18 adults with tobacco use disorder who were not trying to quit. No significant differences appeared in ad-lib smoking, craving, or withdrawal symptoms afterward. Participants reported more intense psychological experiences with ketamine, and about half felt it was easier to abstain. The findings suggest ketamine has little to no direct effect on quantitative smoking measures, though qualitative reports indicate improved mood and reduced craving in some individuals for several days.