The objective of the current program of research will be to test whether intranasal ketamine treatment is more effective than placebo in reducing suicidal ideation in suicidal patients presenting for acute treatment in emergency department settings.
Randomised, double-blind, parallel-group trial (n=60) testing intranasal ketamine (0.2 mg/kg given as two doses on admission) versus saline placebo for reduction of suicidal ideation in emergency department patients.
Secondary objectives examine mu-opioid receptor genotypes and correlations of speech and facial movement patterns with reductions in suicidal ideation.
Intranasal ketamine 0.2 mg/kg given as two separate doses on the day of admission.
Intranasal administration by physician
Intranasal saline placebo given as two separate doses on the day of admission.
Saline placebo administered intranasally to match ketamine dosing