Intranasal Ketamine for Depression in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Frontiers in Psychology June 1, 2021 Dongjiao An, Changwei Wei, Jing Wang et al. 46 citations
Repeated doses of intranasal ketamine produce a fast-acting antidepressant effect in people with major depressive disorder, including those with treatment-resistant depression. In a meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials totaling 858 participants, depression scores on the Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale dropped by an average of 6 points at 2–4 hours, 10 points at 24 hours, and 4 points at 28 days. The likelihood of achieving remission was about 3.5 times higher at 24 hours and 1.7 times higher at 28 days compared with placebo. Transient dissociative symptoms and other mild side effects occurred, but no persistent psychosis or mood switches were reported.