Randomised, crossover neuroimaging study (n=10) comparing IV S-ketamine 0.25 mg/kg versus saline placebo in adults 20–60 to investigate glutamatergic mechanisms relevant to MDD.
This study used a multimodal imaging approach (ASL, task and resting fMRI, MRS, PET) to investigate region-specific effects of NMDA receptor antagonism with S-ketamine on glutamatergic neurotransmission and brain function relevant to major depressive disorder.
Healthy volunteers and depressed patients underwent two single IV infusion sessions (S-ketamine 0.25 mg/kg and saline placebo) in a randomised crossover design with acute and short-term neuroimaging and clinical assessments to link neural changes to emotional state and potential antidepressant mechanisms.
Outcomes included imaging measures of perfusion, connectivity, neurometabolism and receptor density alongside clinical scales to elucidate pharmacological effects of ketamine on glutamatergic systems.
IV infusion of S-ketamine 0.25 mg/kg over 40 min (crossover).
S-ketamine intravenous infusion over 40 minutes.
IV saline infusion over 40 min (crossover).
Normal saline intravenous infusion over 40 minutes.