Randomised, parallel pilot study (n=25 actual) testing ketamine 0.5 mg/kg by subcutaneous injection or 40-minute IV infusion versus saline placebo to prevent postpartum depression after cesarean, with 42-day follow-up.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common perinatal complication with significant maternal and infant consequences; routine screening is recommended and prevention strategies are needed.
Ketamine has rapid antidepressant effects in non‑pregnant populations; intravenous 0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes is commonly used and subcutaneous administration is an alternative route under investigation.
This randomised, quadruple‑blind, parallel pilot trial randomises participants undergoing cesarean to one of three groups (SC ketamine, IV ketamine, or placebo) to assess feasibility, tolerability and preliminary incidence of PPD over 42 days.
Subcutaneous injection and 40-minute IV infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride (placebo) shortly after cesarean delivery.
Subcutaneous injection of 0.9% sodium chloride.
40-minute IV infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride.
Subcutaneous ketamine 0.5 mg/kg plus IV saline infusion.
Subcutaneous ketamine 0.5 mg/kg administered shortly after cesarean.
40-minute IV infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride.
40-minute IV ketamine infusion 0.5 mg/kg plus subcutaneous saline injection.
Subcutaneous injection of 0.9% sodium chloride.
40-minute IV infusion of ketamine 0.5 mg/kg.