Cleveland, Ohio – A new study published in the journal Nature Medicine suggests that a slow-release ketamine pill could potentially offer a new treatment option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression. While ketamine derivatives like esketamine have been approved for treating depression, the research indicates that ketamine pills may provide a more accessible and convenient alternative to current treatment options.
Dr. Brian Barnett, clinical director of the Psychiatric Treatment Resistance Program at the Cleveland Clinic, highlighted the challenges associated with current ketamine treatments, such as the need for close medical supervision in a clinic setting. The development of a ketamine pill could offer patients the opportunity to self-administer the medication at home, potentially expanding access to effective depression treatment.
The study, conducted in New Zealand, enrolled 231 adults with treatment-resistant depression who had not responded to traditional antidepressants. The participants were given a daily dose of a slow-release ketamine pill for five days, with over half of the group experiencing remission of their symptoms. Those who responded to the treatment were then assigned to different treatment groups to further evaluate the effectiveness of varying doses of ketamine.
While participants reported some common side effects like dizziness and nausea, the study indicated that higher doses of ketamine were associated with greater relief from depressive symptoms. Experts like Dr. Gerard Sanacora noted the importance of further research to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the ketamine pill in a larger population.
However, the study also faced challenges, as a high drop-out rate was observed, with some individuals experiencing depression relapse or adverse events. Despite these setbacks, researchers believe that the findings demonstrate progress in exploring the benefits of oral ketamine for depression treatment.
As the medical community continues to investigate the potential of ketamine pills as a viable treatment option for depression, larger studies will be necessary to address safety concerns and determine the drug’s effectiveness in real-world settings. The study underscores the ongoing need for innovative and accessible solutions to help individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression find relief and improved mental health.