This Phase II/III randomized pilot trial (n=24) conducted by The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio aims to assess the feasibility of administering 100mg intramuscular (IM) ketamine alongside a Crisis Response Plan for patients with acute suicidal ideation in the Emergency Department.
Randomised, parallel-group pilot trial comparing a single 100 mg IM ketamine injection plus a one-time CBT-based Crisis Response Plan versus treatment as usual in adults presenting to the ED with acute suicidal ideation.
Primary aims are feasibility and short-term reductions in suicidal ideation; outcomes and safety are assessed at 120 minutes, 3 days and 1 month. Participants are monitored with vital signs and pulse oximetry after dosing and admitted to inpatient psychiatric care for close observation.
Single IM ketamine (100 mg) administered in ED followed by a one-time Crisis Response Plan (CBT-based) session; observation and monitoring post-injection.
100 mg IM ketamine given once in ED; observed with vitals and pulse oximetry for 45 minutes.
Crisis Response Plan (CBT-based), single session ~30–60 minutes, delivered after ketamine injection.
Routine emergency and psychiatry care (treatment as usual) without study ketamine/CRP.
Standard ED and inpatient psychiatric care per treating teams.