Ketamine for major depressive disorder during an inpatient psychiatric admission: Effectiveness, adverse events, and lessons learned.
Journal of affective disorders April 15, 2024 Benjamin D Brody, Nana Park, Alexander Christian et al. 8 citations
In a retrospective chart review of 41 psychiatrically hospitalized patients with non-psychotic major depressive disorder treated with ketamine infusions, 46.5% met criteria for response (a 50% reduction in depression scores) and 26.5% achieved remission (score of 10 or less on the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale) during the treatment course. However, 10% of patients experienced adverse psychological or behavioral outcomes. The study lacked standardized training for clinicians administering the depression rating scales and had incomplete race/ethnicity data. Twice-weekly racemic ketamine infusion appears effective for inpatients, but the findings caution that unmonitored or at-home ketamine therapy may pose substantial risks.