Introduction:
Ketamine and esketamine have been explored in medical research for treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD), a severe form of depression that doesn’t respond to standard therapies. This report summarizes findings from over 50 clinical trials to better understand how these drugs are used, their benefits, and their potential challenges.
Key Points for Patients:
- How It Works: Ketamine and esketamine can relieve depressive symptoms quickly, sometimes within hours, compared to weeks with traditional antidepressants.
- FDA-Approved Esketamine: Esketamine is available as a nasal spray for adults with TRD, often combined with other antidepressants.
- Research Growth: The number of studies has surged since 2008, reflecting rising interest in these treatments.
- Benefits: Patients receiving these treatments in trials experienced significant reductions in depression severity, especially during the first week.
- Challenges: These therapies require controlled administration and careful follow-up. Long-term effects and suitability for different patient groups, such as younger or older adults, are still under study.
The VitalPoint for Patients:
For patients struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to other treatments, ketamine and esketamine represent a new option with rapid relief potential. However, access, ongoing research, and costs can be challenges. Always consult your healthcare provider to see if these options might work for you.
Learn More:
- Full Article Details
Brendle, M., Ragnhildstveit, A., Slayton, M., Smart, L., Cunningham, S., Zimmerman, M. H., Seli, P., Gaffrey, M. S., Averill, L. A., & Robison, R. (2023). Registered clinical trials investigating ketamine and esketamine for treatment-resistant depression: A systematic review. Journal of Psychedelic Studies, 6(3), 176-187. https://doi.org/10.1556/2054.2022.00234