Ketamine and Suicidal Ideation

Ketamine can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts, and this effect appears partly separate from its antidepressant action. However, because long-term follow-up data are lacking, the effect of a single dose is temporary, and there are concerns about prolonged exposure, more long-term evidence is needed before ketamine can be used clinically for suicidal ideation.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Several studies have shown that ketamine can lead to a rapid reduction in suicidal ideation. Ketamine’s rapid effect on suicidal ideation seems at least partially independent of its antidepressant effect. Given the lack of long-term follow-up, the concern for long-term exposure to ketamine, and the transient nature of the effect of a single-dose of ketamine, more long-term data are needed before ketamine can be used in clinical settings for the treatment of suicidal ideation.