This double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm pilot trial (n=20) will investigate the efficacy of intravenous ketamine for emergency department treatment of suicidal ideation (SI) in adolescents.
Pilot randomised, quadruple-blind, placebo-controlled parallel trial testing a single 0.5 mg/kg IV ketamine infusion (max 50 mg over 40 minutes) versus saline in adolescents (12–17 years) presenting to the ED with acute suicidal ideation.
Primary objective is feasibility and preliminary efficacy for rapid reduction in suicidal ideation; outcomes include SI measures, safety, and short-term clinical course with follow-up as specified in the protocol.
Single intravenous infusion of ketamine 0.5 mg/kg (max 50 mg) over 40 minutes.
50 mg maximum; 1 mg/mL concentration; administered over 40 min
Intravenous normal saline placebo 0.5 mL/kg (max 50 mL) over 40 minutes.
0.5 mL/kg, 50 mL maximum; matched infusion over 40 min