Annals of Clinical Psychiatry
November 1, 2022
David Chen‐li, Leanna M.W. Lui, Joshua D. Rosenblat et al.
22 citations
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a severe mood disorder affecting mothers and children, and there is a need for rapid-acting treatments. This narrative review examined the available literature on ketamine for PPD, searching databases for preclinical studies, clinical trials, and reviews. Four clinical trials were identified. The review suggests that ketamine may be a favorable option due to its antidepressant and analgesic effects, short infusion time, and rapid clearance from the mother's bloodstream. However, evidence is insufficient to support its routine use, highlighting the need for more clinical research.
Annals of Clinical Psychiatry
January 1, 2007
Rif S. El-Mallakh, Henry David Abraham
17 citations
MDMA (Ecstasy) is a synthetic amphetamine analogue used recreationally for its mood-enhancing effects, and its use is increasing among young people in Western countries. Unlike traditional drugs of abuse, MDMA dependence and dose escalation are relatively uncommon. However, MDMA is neurotoxic, damaging serotonergic neurons and impairing memory and mood. There are few effective treatments for acute intoxication or the long-term consequences of use. The literature indicates MDMA has a wide range of adverse effects.
Annals of Clinical Psychiatry
March 10, 2026
Brian S. Barnett
Mental healthcare providers discussing esketamine (Spravato) online between 2019 and 2022 most frequently cited billing and reimbursement problems (65.1% of posts), billing codes (48.9%), staffing (18.3%), and pharmacy or drug procurement issues (16.7%) as implementation challenges. Sentiment about reimbursement was mostly negative (72.3%), and most posts comparing esketamine to ketamine favored using ketamine (86.7%). The findings suggest that under-reimbursement, billing difficulties, and logistical barriers may be hindering the adoption of esketamine for treatment-resistant depression.