This double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II trial (n=50) will investigate the effects of intravenous ketamine infusions on patients with depressive symptoms in the intensive care unit (ICU).
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II study in ICU patients with depressive symptoms comparing IV ketamine 0.5 mg/kg once daily for three consecutive days versus saline placebo.
Primary aim is to evaluate efficacy and safety of repeated low-dose ketamine infusions for depressive symptoms in critically ill patients; assessments include PHQ-9 changes and safety/vital-sign monitoring.
IV ketamine 0.5 mg/kg given once daily for three consecutive days to ICU patients with depressive symptoms.
0.5 mg/kg IV once daily; maximum permitted 1 mg/kg or 60 mg/day.
IV 0.9% saline infusions for three consecutive days (placebo comparator).
0.9% saline