Ketamine has been proposed as a novel approach to induce rapid antidepressant response. In this pilot study (n=10) a single IV subanaesthetic ketamine infusion (0.5 mg/kg) was administered to treatment-resistant patients with major depressive disorder to assess clinical and brain-functional effects.
This pilot interventional study tested a single intravenous subanaesthetic dose of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder to evaluate rapid antidepressant effects and safety.
Investigators emphasised assessment of ketamine-associated effects on brain function using fMRI and cognitive testing alongside clinical measures (MADRS score ≥25 for inclusion); procedures included MRI safety screening and monitoring for cardiovascular contraindications.
Single intravenous subanaesthetic ketamine 0.5 mg/kg administration.
Subanaesthetic single administration (0.5 mg/kg).