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Owe-Larsson M, Kamińska K, Buchalska B, Mirowska-Guzel D, Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska A. Psilocybin in pharmacotherapy of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Pharmacol Rep 2024; 76:911-925. [PMID: 39088105 PMCID: PMC11387457 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-024-00633-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental disease that affects approximately 2% of the population. Obsessions and compulsions are troublesome for patients and may disturb their everyday activities. The pathogenesis of this disease is still not fully elucidated, but dysfunctions of serotonin-, dopamine- and glutamate-mediated neurotransmission together with early maladaptive schemas seem of importance. Pharmacological treatment includes drugs affecting the serotoninergic, dopaminergic, and glutamatergic systems, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Providing that up to 40% of patients with OCD are resistant to the currently available medications, there is a need for novel and effective therapies. Recent discoveries suggest that psilocybin, a non-physically addictive psychoactive substance, may ameliorate disease symptoms. When used in appropriate doses and under strict clinical control, psilocybin appears as a valuable treatment for OCD. This narrative article provides a thorough overview of OCD's etiology, current treatment options, and the emerging evidence supporting psilocybin's efficacy in managing OCD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Owe-Larsson
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Kamińska
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland.
| | - Barbara Buchalska
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland
| | - Dagmara Mirowska-Guzel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Cudnoch-Jędrzejewska
- Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1B, Warszawa, 02-097, Poland
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Mathai DS, Hull TD, Vando L, Malgaroli M. At-home, telehealth-supported ketamine treatment for depression: Findings from longitudinal, machine learning and symptom network analysis of real-world data. J Affect Disord 2024; 361:198-208. [PMID: 38810787 PMCID: PMC11284959 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving safe and effective access to ketamine therapy is of high priority given the growing burden of mental illness. Telehealth-supported administration of sublingual ketamine is being explored toward this goal. METHODS In this longitudinal study, moderately-to-severely depressed patients received four doses of ketamine at home over four weeks within a supportive digital health context. Treatment was structured to resemble methods of therapeutic psychedelic trials. Patients receiving a second course of treatment were also examined. Symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression. We conducted preregistered machine learning and symptom network analyses to investigate outcomes (osf.io/v2rpx). RESULTS A sample of 11,441 patients was analyzed, demonstrating a modal antidepressant response from both non-severe (n = 6384, 55.8 %) and severe (n = 2070, 18.1 %) baseline depression levels. Adverse events were detected in 3.0-4.8 % of participants and predominantly neurologic or psychiatric in nature. A second course of treatment helped extend improvements in patients who responded favorably to initial treatment. Improvement was most strongly predicted by lower depression scores and age at baseline. Symptoms of Depressed mood and Anhedonia sustained depression despite ongoing treatment. LIMITATIONS This study was limited by the absence of comparison or control groups and lack of a fixed-dose procedure for ketamine administration. CONCLUSIONS At-home, telehealth-supported ketamine administration was largely safe, well-tolerated, and associated with improvement in patients with depression. Strategies for combining psychedelic-oriented therapies with rigorous telehealth models, as explored here, may uniquely address barriers to mental health treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Mathai
- The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baltimore, MD, United States of America; Sattva Medicine - Psychiatry/Psychotherapy Practice, Miami, FL, United States of America
| | - Thomas D Hull
- Institute for Psycholinguistics and Digital Health, United States of America
| | | | - Matteo Malgaroli
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New York, NY, United States of America.
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Smith-Apeldoorn SY, Veraart JKE, Kamphuis J, Spijker J, van der Meij A, van Asselt ADI, Aan Het Rot M, Schoevers RA. Oral esketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with open-label extension. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:2657-2665. [PMID: 38523183 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02478-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
About one-third of patients with depression do not achieve adequate response to current treatment options. Although intravenous and intranasal administrations of (es)ketamine have shown antidepressant properties, their accessibility and scalability are limited. We investigated the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of generic oral esketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in a randomized placebo-controlled trial with open-label extension. This study consisted of 1) a six-week fixed low-dose treatment phase during which 111 participants received oral esketamine 30 mg or placebo three times a day; 2) a four-week wash-out phase; and 3) an optional six-week open-label individually titrated treatment phase during which participants received 0.5 to 3.0 mg/kg oral esketamine two times a week. The primary outcome measure was change in depressive symptom severity, assessed with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS17), from baseline to 6 weeks. Fixed low-dose oral esketamine when compared to placebo had no benefit on the HDRS17 total score (p = 0.626). Except for dizziness and sleep hallucinations scores, which were higher in the esketamine arm, we found no significant difference in safety and tolerability aspects. During the open-label individually titrated treatment phase, the mean HDRS17 score decreased from 21.0 (SD 5.09) to 15.1 (SD 7.27) (mean difference -6.0, 95% CI -7.71 to -4.29, p < 0.001). Our results suggest that fixed low-dose esketamine is not effective in TRD. In contrast, individually titrated higher doses of oral esketamine might have antidepressant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Y Smith-Apeldoorn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Jolien K E Veraart
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, PsyQ Haaglanden, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Jeanine Kamphuis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Spijker
- Depression Expertise Center, Pro Persona Mental Health Care, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Antoinette D I van Asselt
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marije Aan Het Rot
- Department of Psychology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- School of Behavioral and Cognitive Neurosciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert A Schoevers
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- School of Behavioral and Cognitive Neurosciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Wang C, Lan X, Liu W, Zhan Y, Zheng W, Chen X, Liu G, Mai S, Lu H, McIntyre RS, Zhou Y, Ning Y. Non-improvement predicts subsequent non-response to repeated-dose intravenous ketamine for depression: a re-analysis of a 2-week open-label study in patients with unipolar and bipolar depression. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:324. [PMID: 39107286 PMCID: PMC11303529 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-03027-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
There is insufficient evidence to guide dose and frequency optimization with repeated-dose ketamine for depression. This study assessed the value of symptomatic non-improvement after the first few ketamine infusions as a predictor of overall non-response in depression for early decision-making to discontinue treatment. A total of 135 individuals with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder experiencing a current major depressive episode were administered six repeated doses of intravenous ketamine. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at baseline, 4 h after the first infusion, and 24 h after each infusion. Improvement, partial response, and response were defined as a reduction rate of ≥ 20%, 30%, and 50% in MADRS scores, respectively. This study examined the relationship between improvement (as opposed to non-improvement after each infusion or consecutive non-improvements after the first few infusions) and partial response and response after the sixth infusion. This analysis was summarized using sensitivity, specificity, and other diagnostic test parameters. The sensitivities of improvement at 24 h post-infusion 4 and improvement at 24 h post-infusion 3, vs. three consecutive non-improvements, as predictors for overall partial response and response exceeded 90%. No significant reduction in depressive symptoms was seen in non-improvers following the remaining infusions after the above-identified point. Our study suggests that non-improvement after four infusions, or more conservatively three consecutive non-improvements after three infusions, could serve as a signal of overall non-response to repeated-dose intravenous ketamine for depression and that subsequent treatments would not be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengyu Wang
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Lan
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijian Liu
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanni Zhan
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guanxi Liu
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Siming Mai
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanna Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yanling Zhou
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yuping Ning
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Pattanaseri K, Lortrakul J, Jaisin K, Srifuengfung M, Sa-Nguanpanich N, Viravan N, Pariwatcharakul P, Makarasara W, Ratta-Apha W. A randomized controlled pilot study of daily intravenous ketamine over three days for treatment-resistant depression. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:512. [PMID: 39026266 PMCID: PMC11256507 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05951-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have confirmed the rapid antidepressant action of ketamine in depressive episodes. Nevertheless, a standardized procedure for the delivery of ketamine infusion in individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression, particularly in terms of infusion frequency and total dosage, remains undetermined. In addition, an efficacious ketamine regimen for persistent pain management involved a continuous 10-day infusion period with no notable adverse effects. Consequently, the primary objective of this study was to evaluate the antidepressant capacity of consecutive ketamine infusions spanning over three successive days, the duration of therapeutic response, and the overall safety profile of the treatment. METHODS In this randomized controlled trial, participants aged 18-64 with treatment-resistant depression were randomized to receive either intravenous ketamine or midazolam (used as an active placebo) for 40 min daily over three consecutive days. Statistical analysis using repeated measures ANOVA was employed to assess the changes in the total score of the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and the clinical global impression-Severity from the initial assessment to 10 and 31 days post-infusion. Additionally, the duration of response and remission was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. RESULTS Out of 33 randomized participants, 20 underwent the treatment as planned. By day 10th, the ketamine group had a mean reduction in MADRS score of 12.55 (95% CI = 6.70-18.09), whereas the midazolam group had a decrease of 17.22 (95% CI = 11.09-23.36). This pattern continued to day 31, with ketamine showing a mean score decrease of 13.73 (95% CI = 7.54-19.91) and midazolam a fall of 12.44 (95% CI = 5.61-19.28). Both treatments were well tolerated, with dissociative symptoms in the ketamine group being temporary and ceasing by the end of each infusion. CONCLUSION Intravenous ketamine given for three consecutive days did not show a notable antidepressant advantage when compared to the active placebo midazolam, highlighting the need for further research into effective treatments schedules for treatment-resistant depression. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05026203, ClinicalTrials.gov, registered on 24/08/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keerati Pattanaseri
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Juthawadee Lortrakul
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kankamol Jaisin
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Maytinee Srifuengfung
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Naratip Sa-Nguanpanich
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Research Department, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Natee Viravan
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pornjira Pariwatcharakul
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wattanan Makarasara
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Anesthesiology, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Siriraj Informatics and Data Innovation Center, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Woraphat Ratta-Apha
- Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Mahidol University, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
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6
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Lappas AS, Glarou E, Polyzopoulou ZA, Goss G, Huhn M, Samara MT, Christodoulou NG. Pharmacotherapy for sleep disturbances in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): A network meta-analysis. Sleep Med 2024; 119:467-479. [PMID: 38795401 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2024.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep disturbances are an important symptom dimension of post-traumatic-stress-disorder (PTSD). There is no meta-analytic evidence examining the effects of all types of pharmacotherapy on sleep outcomes among patients with PTSD. METHODS Medline/Embase/PsychInfo/CENTRAL/clinicaltrials.gov/ICTRP, reference lists of published reviews and all included studies were searched for Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) examining any pharmacotherapy vs. placebo or any other drug among patients with PTSD. PRIMARY OUTCOMES total sleep time, nightmares, sleep quality. SECONDARY OUTCOMES sleep onset latency, number of nocturnal awakenings, time spent awake following sleep onset, dropouts due to sleep-related adverse-effects, insomnia/somnolence/vivid-dreams as adverse-effects. Pairwise and network meta-analyses were performed. RESULTS 99 RCTs with 10,481 participants were included. Prazosin may be the most effective treatment for insomnia (SMD = -0.88, 95%CI = [-1.22;-0.54], nightmares (SMD = -0.44, 95%CI = [-0.84;-0.04]) and poor sleep quality (SMD = -0.55, 95%CI = [-1.01;-0.10]). Evidence is scarce and indicates lack of efficacy for SSRIs, Mirtazapine, z-drugs and benzodiazepines, which are widely used in daily practice. Risperidone and Quetiapine carry a high risk of causing somnolence without having a clear therapeutic benefit. Hydroxyzine, Trazodone, Nabilone, Paroxetine and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy may be promising options, but more research is needed. CONCLUSIONS Underpowered individual comparisons and very-low to moderate confidence in effect estimates hinder the generalisability of the results. More RCTs, specifically reporting on sleep-related outcomes, are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas S Lappas
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece; Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Wales, United Kingdom.
| | - Eleni Glarou
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom; Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Zoi A Polyzopoulou
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Macedonia, Florina, Greece
| | - Grace Goss
- Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Maximillian Huhn
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, District Hospital Bayreuth/Psychiatric Health Care Facilities of Upper Franconia, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Myrto T Samara
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Nikos G Christodoulou
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
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Zhou X, Zhao C, Xu H, Xu Y, Zhan L, Wang P, He J, Lu T, Gu Y, Yang Y, Xu C, Chen Y, Liu Y, Zeng Y, Tian F, Chen Q, Xie X, Liu J, Hu H, Li J, Zheng Y, Guo J, Gao Z. Pharmacological inhibition of Kir4.1 evokes rapid-onset antidepressant responses. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:857-866. [PMID: 38355723 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-024-01555-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder, a prevalent and severe psychiatric condition, necessitates development of new and fast-acting antidepressants. Genetic suppression of astrocytic inwardly rectifying potassium channel 4.1 (Kir4.1) in the lateral habenula ameliorates depression-like phenotypes in mice. However, Kir4.1 remains an elusive drug target for depression. Here, we discovered a series of Kir4.1 inhibitors through high-throughput screening. Lys05, the most potent one thus far, effectively suppressed native Kir4.1 channels while displaying high selectivity against established targets for rapid-onset antidepressants. Cryogenic-electron microscopy structures combined with electrophysiological characterizations revealed Lys05 directly binds in the central cavity of Kir4.1. Notably, a single dose of Lys05 reversed the Kir4.1-driven depression-like phenotype and exerted rapid-onset (as early as 1 hour) antidepressant actions in multiple canonical depression rodent models with efficacy comparable to that of (S)-ketamine. Overall, we provided a proof of concept that Kir4.1 is a promising target for rapid-onset antidepressant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- College of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yixiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Pei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingyi He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Taotao Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueling Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Yang
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chanjuan Xu
- Cellular Signaling Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiyang Chen
- Cellular Signaling Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuxuan Liu
- Cellular Signaling Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yue Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuyun Tian
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xin Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- Cellular Signaling Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of Ministry of Education, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hailan Hu
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yueming Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiangtao Guo
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Neurology of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Zhaobing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- College of Pharmacy, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, China.
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Thornton NLR, Wright DJ, Glozier N. Implementation of a ketamine programme for treatment-resistant depression in the public health system: Lessons from the first Australian public hospital clinic. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2024; 58:549-554. [PMID: 38500247 PMCID: PMC11193313 DOI: 10.1177/00048674241237094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
One could argue that we are living through a period of innovation and change in psychiatry unlike that seen before, with repurposed medications emerging as novel treatments. However, despite evidence of enhanced clinical outcomes and potential medium-term savings, delivering these promising interventions is resource-intensive and perceived as difficult in the public sector. Consequently, they are generally only available in the private sector, often at great cost, effectively making them inaccessible to the 'Have Nots'. The arrival of these paradigm-shifting treatments has inadvertently highlighted a growing mental health inequity. The Royal Prince Alfred Hospital's Ketamine Treatment Clinic was the first public-sector ketamine treatment clinic for complex mood disorders in Australia. Based on 3 years' experience establishing, developing and running a public-sector ketamine treatment service, we review the progress, perils and pitfalls for clinicians and health services contemplating establishing a public-sector ketamine treatment service of their own.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicollette LR Thornton
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Marie Bashir Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Dean J Wright
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Marie Bashir Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Nick Glozier
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Marie Bashir Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
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Aepfelbacher J, Panny B, Price RB. Experiences of Awe Mediate Ketamine's Antidepressant Effects: Findings From a Randomized Controlled Trial in Treatment-Resistant Depression. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 4:100316. [PMID: 38726038 PMCID: PMC11078768 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2024.100316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, provides rapid antidepressant effects. Although much research has focused on neural and molecular mechanisms of action, it is critical to also consider psychological mechanisms that may contribute to its therapeutic efficacy. The construct of an awe-inducing experience, which is a well-validated psychological phenomenon tied to emotional well-being, had not been applied previously in ketamine research. Methods One hundred sixteen participants with depression, 77 of whom received a ketamine infusion (0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes) and 39 patients who received saline placebo, completed a validated measure of awe (the Awe Experience Scale [AWE-S]) at 40 minutes postinfusion. AWE-S scores were examined as potential mediators of depression outcomes (% improvement in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale score) at 5 postinfusion time points (24 hours and 5, 12, 21, and 30 days). Dissociative effects, measured by Clinician-Administered Dissociative States Scale scores, were tested in parallel mediation models for comparison. Results We found that the psychological experience of awe was strongly reported by participants during ketamine infusion, but not saline infusion, and there were significant associations between total AWE-S scores and Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale score improvement (% change) in the ketamine arm at all 5 time points. Furthermore, at all 5 time points, total AWE-S scores statistically mediated the relationship between ketamine and Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores. By contrast, Clinician-Administered Dissociative States Scale scores did not mediate outcomes at any time point. Conclusions Ketamine infusion strongly induced heightened feelings of awe, and these experiences consistently mediated depression outcomes over a 1- to 30-day period, unlike general dissociative side effects. The specific awe-inspiring properties of ketamine may contribute to its antidepressant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin Panny
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Rebecca B. Price
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Shafique H, Demers JC, Biesiada J, Golani LK, Cerne R, Smith JL, Szostak M, Witkin JM. ( R)-(-)-Ketamine: The Promise of a Novel Treatment for Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6804. [PMID: 38928508 PMCID: PMC11203826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
NMDA receptor antagonists have potential for therapeutics in neurological and psychiatric diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, substance abuse disorder (SUD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). (S)-ketamine was the first of a novel class of antidepressants, rapid-acting antidepressants, to be approved for medical use. The stereoisomer, (R)-ketamine (arketamine), is currently under development for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The compound has demonstrated efficacy in multiple animal models. Two clinical studies disclosed efficacy in TRD and bipolar depression. A study by the drug sponsor recently failed to reach a priori clinical endpoints but post hoc analysis revealed efficacy. The clinical value of (R)-ketamine is supported by experimental data in humans and rodents, showing that it is less sedating, does not produce marked psychotomimetic or dissociative effects, has less abuse potential than (S)-ketamine, and produces efficacy in animal models of a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders. The mechanisms of action of the antidepressant effects of (R)-ketamine are hypothesized to be due to NMDA receptor antagonism and/or non-NMDA receptor mechanisms. We suggest that further clinical experimentation with (R)-ketamine will create novel and improved medicines for some of the neurological and psychiatric disorders that are underserved by current medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Shafique
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Julie C. Demers
- Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Julia Biesiada
- Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; (J.C.D.); (J.B.)
| | - Lalit K. Golani
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Rok Cerne
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA; (R.C.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Jodi L. Smith
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA; (R.C.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Marta Szostak
- Department of Psychology, SWPS University, 03-815 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Jeffrey M. Witkin
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA; (R.C.); (J.L.S.)
- Departments of Neuroscience and Trauma Research, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN 46260, USA
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11
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Więdłocha M, Marcinowicz P, Komarnicki J, Tobiaszewska M, Dębowska W, Dębowska M, Szulc A. Depression with comorbid borderline personality disorder - could ketamine be a treatment catalyst? Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1398859. [PMID: 38742125 PMCID: PMC11089186 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1398859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is diagnosed in 10-30% of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), and the frequency of MDD among individuals with BPD reaches over 80%. The comorbidity of MDD and BPD is associated with more severe depressive symptoms and functional impairment, higher risk of treatment resistance and increased suicidality. The effectiveness of ketamine usage in treatment resistant depression (TRD) has been demonstrated in numerous studies. In most of these studies, individuals with BPD were not excluded, thus given the high co-occurrence of these disorders, it is possible that the beneficial effects of ketamine also extend to the subpopulation with comorbid TRD and BPD. However, no protocols were developed that would account for comorbidity. Moreover, psychotherapeutic interventions, which may be crucial for achieving a lasting therapeutic effect in TRD and BPD comorbidity, were not included. In the article, we discuss the results of a small number of existing studies and case reports on the use of ketamine in depressive disorders with comorbid BPD. We elucidate how, at the molecular and brain network levels, ketamine can impact the neurobiology and symptoms of BPD. Furthermore, we explore whether ketamine-induced neuroplasticity, augmented by psychotherapy, could be of use in alleviating core BPD-related symptoms such as emotional dysregulation, self-identity disturbances and self-harming behaviors. We also discuss the potential of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in BPD treatment. As there is no standard approach to the application of ketamine or KAP in individuals with comorbid TRD and BPD, we consider further research in the field as imperative. The priorities should include development of dedicated protocols, distinguishing subpopulations that may benefit most from such treatment and investigating factors that may influence its effectiveness and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Więdłocha
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Pruszkow, Masovian, Poland
| | - Piotr Marcinowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Pruszkow, Masovian, Poland
| | - Jan Komarnicki
- Leszek Giec Upper-Silesian Medical Centre of the Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | | | - Weronika Dębowska
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Pruszkow, Masovian, Poland
| | - Marta Dębowska
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Pruszkow, Masovian, Poland
| | - Agata Szulc
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Pruszkow, Masovian, Poland
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12
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Danyeli LV, Sen ZD, Colic L, Opel N, Refisch A, Blekic N, Macharadze T, Kretzschmar M, Munk MJ, Gaser C, Speck O, Walter M, Li M. Cortical thickness of the posterior cingulate cortex is associated with the ketamine-induced altered sense of self: An ultra-high field MRI study. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 172:136-143. [PMID: 38382237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Subanesthetic doses of ketamine induce an antidepressant effect within hours in individuals with treatment-resistant depression while it furthermore induces immediate but transient psychotomimetic effects. Among these psychotomimetic effects, an altered sense of self has specifically been associated with the antidepressant response to ketamine as well as psychedelics. However, there is plenty of variation in the extent of the drug-induced altered sense of self experience that might be explained by differences in basal morphological characteristics, such as cortical thickness. Regions that have been previously associated with a psychedelics-induced sense of self and with ketamine's mechanism of action, are the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) and the pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC). In this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind cross-over magnetic resonance imaging study, thirty-five healthy male participants (mean age ± standard deviation (SD) = 25.1 ± 4.2 years) were scanned at 7 T. We investigated whether the cortical thickness of two DMN regions, the PCC and the pgACC, are associated with disembodiment and experience of unity scores, which were used to index the ketamine-induced altered sense of self. We observed a negative correlation between the PCC cortical thickness and the disembodiment scores (R = -0.54, p < 0.001). In contrast, no significant association was found between the pgACC cortical thickness and the ketamine-induced altered sense of self. In the context of the existing literature, our findings highlight the importance of the PCC as a structure involved in the mechanism of ketamine-induced altered sense of self that seems to be shared with different antidepressant agents with psychotomimetic effects operating on different classes of transmitter systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Vera Danyeli
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Zümrüt Duygu Sen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lejla Colic
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Nils Opel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Refisch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Nikolai Blekic
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tamar Macharadze
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Department Systems Physiology of Learning, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Moritz Kretzschmar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - MatthiasH J Munk
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Systems Neurophysiology, Department of Biology, Darmstadt University of Technology, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christian Gaser
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Neurology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Oliver Speck
- Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Martin Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Behavioral Neurology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Intervention and Research on adaptive and maladaptive brain Circuits underlying mental health (C-I-R-C), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, Germany.
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Arango-Posada MDM, Prada-Escobar AI, Marín-Hernández C, Monsalve-Franco V, Restrepo-Bernal D. Successful treatment for serious depression with suicidal risk in a heart transplant patient. REVISTA COLOMBIANA DE PSIQUIATRIA (ENGLISH ED.) 2024; 53:210-216. [PMID: 39127545 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcpeng.2022.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Major depressive disorder is related to unfavourable outcomes in patients with severe comorbidities. In transplant patients, major depression is associated with worse clinical outcomes. CASE REPORT We present the case of a 55-year-old man with a heart transplant due to heart failure of ischaemic origin. Six months after the transplant he developed depressed mood, anhedonia and suicidal ideation with a score of 20/27 on the PHQ-9 depression screening scale. After receiving mirtazapine 30 mg/night for a week and persisting with a high suicide risk, it was decided to administer ketamine infusion for 24 h, with which a significant improvement in mood was observed, and the disappearance of suicidal ideation 24 h after the infusion. DISCUSSION Depression in transplant patients is a factor associated with graft loss and post-transplant mortality, in addition to favouring other negative outcomes such as deep vein thrombosis. CONCLUSIONS Ketamine infusion was shown to be an effective and safe option to treat major depression with suicidal risk in a heart transplant patient.
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Brown KA, Gould TD. Targeting metaplasticity mechanisms to promote sustained antidepressant actions. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:1114-1127. [PMID: 38177353 PMCID: PMC11176041 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02397-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The discovery that subanesthetic doses of (R, S)-ketamine (ketamine) and (S)-ketamine (esketamine) rapidly induce antidepressant effects and promote sustained actions following drug clearance in depressed patients who are treatment-resistant to other therapies has resulted in a paradigm shift in the conceptualization of how rapidly and effectively depression can be treated. Consequently, the mechanism(s) that next generation antidepressants may engage to improve pathophysiology and resultant symptomology are being reconceptualized. Impaired excitatory glutamatergic synapses in mood-regulating circuits are likely a substantial contributor to the pathophysiology of depression. Metaplasticity is the process of regulating future capacity for plasticity by priming neurons with a stimulation that alters later neuronal plasticity responses. Accordingly, the development of treatment modalities that specifically modulate the duration, direction, or magnitude of glutamatergic synaptic plasticity events such as long-term potentiation (LTP), defined here as metaplastogens, may be an effective approach to reverse the pathophysiology underlying depression and improve depression symptoms. We review evidence that the initiating mechanisms of pharmacologically diverse rapid-acting antidepressants (i.e., ketamine mimetics) converge on consistent downstream molecular mediators that facilitate the expression/maintenance of increased synaptic strength and resultant persisting antidepressant effects. Specifically, while the initiating mechanisms of these therapies may differ (e.g., cell type-specificity, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subtype-selective inhibition vs activation, metabotropic glutamate receptor 2/3 antagonism, AMPA receptor potentiation, 5-HT receptor-activating psychedelics, etc.), the sustained therapeutic mechanisms of putative rapid-acting antidepressants will be mediated, in part, by metaplastic effects that converge on consistent molecular mediators to enhance excitatory neurotransmission and altered capacity for synaptic plasticity. We conclude that the convergence of these therapeutic mechanisms provides the opportunity for metaplasticity processes to be harnessed as a druggable plasticity mechanism by next-generation therapeutics. Further, targeting metaplastic mechanisms presents therapeutic advantages including decreased dosing frequency and associated diminished adverse responses by eliminating the requirement for the drug to be continuously present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A Brown
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Todd D Gould
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
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15
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Juby VM, Paruk S, Tomita M, Chiliza B. Ketamine for depressive symptoms: A retrospective chart review of a private ketamine clinic. S Afr J Psychiatr 2024; 30:2176. [PMID: 38444407 PMCID: PMC10913177 DOI: 10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v30i0.2176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background There is currently no published evidence demonstrating the effectiveness and safety of subanaesthetic doses of ketamine, when administered intravenously as an adjunct treatment for depressive symptoms, in a real world setting in South Africa. Aim This retrospective chart review reports the clinical response (change in Patient Health Questionnaire - 7 score) to an initial infusion series of ketamine added to usual treatment, and the pattern of its subsequent maintenance use, for depressive symptoms. Setting A private ketamine clinic in Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal. Methods The medical records of all patients who attended a private ketamine clinic between August 2019 and 31 May 2021 were retrospectively analysed. Depression symptoms were evaluated using the Patient Health Questionaire-9 (PHQ-9) administered immediately before and 24 h after each treatment. Response was defined as a score decrease of more than 50%. Results Among the 154 patients who received ketamine infusions for depression, 67 completed a six infusion initial series, with a response rate of 60.6% and remission rate of 32.4%. Of the 154, 50% no longer experienced any suicidal ideation after treatment and adverse events were uncommon, with 6.2% of infusions requiring intervention for adverse events, mostly nausea. In addition, 48.5% of those who completed the initial series continued to receive maintenance infusions, with no evidence of escalating use or abuse. Conclusion Incorporating intravenous ketamine into the existing treatment regimens at a private clinic was associated with reduced acuteness of depression severity and suicidal ideation. This approach appeared safe and tolerable, showing no signs of abuse or dependence. Contribution This is the first known naturalistic study reporting on ketamine use for depressive symptoms in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidette M Juby
- Discipline of Psychiatry, College of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Saaeda Paruk
- Discipline of Psychiatry, College of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mitsuaki Tomita
- Discipline of Psychiatry, College of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Bonga Chiliza
- Discipline of Psychiatry, College of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Rodolico A, Cutrufelli P, Di Francesco A, Aguglia A, Catania G, Concerto C, Cuomo A, Fagiolini A, Lanza G, Mineo L, Natale A, Rapisarda L, Petralia A, Signorelli MS, Aguglia E. Efficacy and safety of ketamine and esketamine for unipolar and bipolar depression: an overview of systematic reviews with meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1325399. [PMID: 38362031 PMCID: PMC10867194 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1325399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Unipolar and bipolar depression present treatment challenges, with patients sometimes showing limited or no response to standard medications. Ketamine and its enantiomer, esketamine, offer promising alternative treatments that can quickly relieve suicidal thoughts. This Overview of Reviews (OoR) analyzed and synthesized systematic reviews (SRs) with meta-analysis on randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving ketamine in various formulations (intravenous, intramuscular, intranasal, subcutaneous) for patients with unipolar or bipolar depression. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of ketamine and esketamine in treating major depressive episodes across various forms, including unipolar, bipolar, treatment-resistant, and non-resistant depression, in patient populations with and without suicidal ideation, aiming to comprehensively assess their therapeutic potential and safety profile. Methods Following PRIOR guidelines, this OoR's protocol was registered on Implasy (ID:202150049). Searches in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Epistemonikos focused on English-language meta-analyses of RCTs of ketamine or esketamine, as monotherapy or add-on, evaluating outcomes like suicide risk, depressive symptoms, relapse, response rates, and side effects. We included studies involving both suicidal and non-suicidal patients; all routes and formulations of administration (intravenous, intramuscular, intranasal) were considered, as well as all available comparisons with control interventions. We excluded meta-analysis in which the intervention was used as anesthesia for electroconvulsive therapy or with a randomized ascending dose design. The selection, data extraction, and quality assessment of studies were carried out by pairs of reviewers in a blinded manner. Data on efficacy, acceptability, and tolerability were extracted. Results Our analysis included 26 SRs and 44 RCTs, with 3,316 subjects. The intervention is effective and well-tolerated, although the quality of the included SRs and original studies is poor, resulting in low certainty of evidence. Limitations This study is limited by poor-quality SRs and original studies, resulting in low certainty of the evidence. Additionally, insufficient available data prevents differentiation between the effects of ketamine and esketamine in unipolar and bipolar depression. Conclusion While ketamine and esketamine show promising therapeutic potential, the current evidence suffers from low study quality. Enhanced methodological rigor in future research will allow for a more informed application of these interventions within the treatment guidelines for unipolar and bipolar depression. Systematic review registration [https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2021-5-0049/], identifier (INPLASY202150049).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Pierfelice Cutrufelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Di Francesco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Aguglia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Gaetano Catania
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmen Concerto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandro Cuomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Fagiolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Lanza
- Department of Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Clinical Neurophysiology Research Unit, Oasi Research Institute-IRCCS, Troina, Italy
| | - Ludovico Mineo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antimo Natale
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry Service (SPA), University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laura Rapisarda
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Section of Pharmacology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Petralia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Salvina Signorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Chrenek C, Duong B, Khullar A, McRee C, Thomas R, Swainson J. Use of ketamine for treatment resistant depression: updated review of literature and practical applications to a community ketamine program in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Front Psychiatry 2024; 14:1283733. [PMID: 38260793 PMCID: PMC10801061 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1283733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Though intravenous (IV) ketamine and intranasal (IN) esketamine are noted to be efficacious for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), access to each of these treatments within healthcare systems is limited due to cost, availability, and/or monitoring requirements. IV ketamine has been offered at two public hospital sites in Edmonton, Canada since 2015. Since then, demand for maintenance ketamine treatments has grown. This has required creative solutions for safe, accessible, evidence-based patient care. Objectives Aims of this paper are twofold. First, we will provide a synthesis of current knowledge with regards to the clinical use of ketamine for TRD. Consideration will be given regarding; off-label racemic ketamine uses versus FDA-approved intranasal esketamine, populations treated, inclusion/exclusion criteria, dosing, assessing clinical response, concomitant medications, and tolerability/safety. Second, this paper will describe our experience as a community case study in applying evidence-based treatment. We will describe application of the literature review to our clinical programming, and in particular focus on cost-effective maintenance treatments, long-term safety concerns, routes of ketamine administration other than via intravenous, and cautious prescribing of ketamine outside of clinically monitored settings. Methodology We conducted a literature review of the on the use of ketamine for TRD up to June 30, 2023. Key findings are reviewed, and we describe their application to our ketamine program. Conclusion Evidence for the use of ketamine in resistant depression has grown in recent years, with evolving data to support and direct its clinical use. There is an increasing body of evidence to guide judicious use of ketamine in various clinical circumstances, for a population of patients with a high burden of suffering and morbidity. While large-scale, randomized controlled trials, comparative studies, and longer-term treatment outcomes is lacking, this community case study illustrates that currently available evidence can be applied to real-world clinical settings with complex patients. As cost is often a significant barrier to accessing initial and/or maintenance IV or esketamine treatments, public ketamine programs may incorporate SL or IN ketamine to support a sustainable and accessible treatment model. Three of such models are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carson Chrenek
- Department of Psychiatry, Misericordia Community Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Bryan Duong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Atul Khullar
- Department of Psychiatry, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Chris McRee
- Grey Nuns Community Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Rejish Thomas
- Department of Psychiatry, Grey Nuns Community Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Jennifer Swainson
- Department of Psychiatry, Misericordia Community Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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18
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Chruścicka-Smaga B, Machaczka A, Szewczyk B, Pilc A. Interaction of hallucinogenic rapid-acting antidepressants with mGlu2/3 receptor ligands as a window for more effective therapies. Pharmacol Rep 2023; 75:1341-1349. [PMID: 37932583 PMCID: PMC10660980 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00547-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The desire to find a gold-standard therapy for depression is still ongoing. Developing one universal and effective pharmacotherapy remains troublesome due to the high complexity and variety of symptoms. Over the last decades, the understanding of the mechanism of pathophysiology of depression and its key consequences for brain functioning have undergone significant changes, referring to the monoaminergic theory of the disease. After the breakthrough discovery of ketamine, research began to focus on the modulation of glutamatergic transmission as a new pharmacological target. Glutamate is a crucial player in mechanisms of a novel class of antidepressants, including hallucinogens such as ketamine. The role of glutamatergic transmission is also suggested in the antidepressant (AD) action of scopolamine and psilocybin. Despite fast, robust, and sustained AD action hallucinogens belonging to a group of rapid-acting antidepressants (RAA) exert significant undesired effects, which hamper their use in the clinic. Thus, the synergistic action of more than one substance in lower doses instead of monotherapy may alleviate the likelihood of adverse effects while improving therapeutic outcomes. In this review, we explore AD-like behavioral, synaptic, and molecular action of RAAs such as ketamine, scopolamine, and psilocybin, in combination with mGlu2/3 receptor antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Chruścicka-Smaga
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agata Machaczka
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Bernadeta Szewczyk
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland
| | - Andrzej Pilc
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków, Poland.
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Mathai DS, Hilbert S, Sepeda ND, Strickland JC, Griffiths RR, Garcia-Romeu A. Double-Blind Comparison of the Two Hallucinogens Dextromethorphan and Psilocybin: Experience-Dependent and Enduring Psychological Effects in Healthy Volunteers. PSYCHEDELIC MEDICINE (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2023; 1:241-252. [PMID: 38152462 PMCID: PMC10750378 DOI: 10.1089/psymed.2023.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Rationale N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-mediated dissociatives and serotonergic hallucinogens are being increasingly used in therapeutic interventions that involve nonordinary states of consciousness and may represent a unique mental health paradigm wherein pharmacologically induced experiences are conducive to psychological well-being. Objective The aim of this study was to further understand how the phenomenological and health-promoting effects of high-dose dextromethorphan (DXM) compared to psilocybin in the same participants when administered under experimental conditions that are typical of therapeutic psychedelic trials. Methods Single, acute oral doses of DXM (400 mg/70 kg), psilocybin (10, 20, 30 mg/70 kg), and inactive placebo were administered under double-blind and psychologically supportive conditions to 20 healthy participants with histories of hallucinogen use. Ratings of personal meaning, spiritual significance, psychological challenge, and psychological insight attributed to acute drug experiences were assessed 7 h (at session end) and 1 week after each drug administration. Persisting psychological effects were assessed 1 week after each drug administration. Results High-dose DXM and psilocybin produced similar increases over placebo in ratings of drug experience that was predictive of psychological benefit at 1 week, even when expectancy effects were minimized. These effects tended to favor psilocybin in a dose-dependent manner and were limited by poor physical tolerability for DXM. Conclusions This analysis suggests the utility of exploring clinical applications of dissociatives that occur within the supportive contexts that are characteristic of psychedelic research and that prioritize the optimization of psychologically valuable drug experiences. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02033707).
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Affiliation(s)
- David S. Mathai
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Samantha Hilbert
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nathan D. Sepeda
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Psychedelic Drug Research and Education, College of Social Work, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Justin C. Strickland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Roland R. Griffiths
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Albert Garcia-Romeu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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20
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Vecera CM, C. Courtes A, Jones G, Soares JC, Machado-Vieira R. Pharmacotherapies Targeting GABA-Glutamate Neurotransmission for Treatment-Resistant Depression. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1572. [PMID: 38004437 PMCID: PMC10675154 DOI: 10.3390/ph16111572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a term used to describe a particular type of major depressive disorder (MDD). There is no consensus about what defines TRD, with various studies describing between 1 and 4 failures of antidepressant therapies, with or without electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). That is why TRD is such a growing concern among clinicians and researchers, and it explains the necessity for investigating novel therapeutic targets beyond conventional monoamine pathways. An imbalance between two primary central nervous system (CNS) neurotransmitters, L-glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), has emerged as having a key role in the pathophysiology of TRD. In this review, we provide an evaluation and comprehensive review of investigational antidepressants targeting these two systems, accessing their levels of available evidence, mechanisms of action, and safety profiles. N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism has shown the most promise amongst the glutamatergic targets, with ketamine and esketamine (Spravato) robustly generating responses across trials. Two specific NMDA-glycine site modulators, D-cycloserine (DCS) and apimostinel, have also generated promising initial safety and efficacy profiles, warranting further investigation. Combination dextromethorphan-bupropion (AXS-05/Auvelity) displays a unique mechanism of action and demonstrated positive results in particular applicability in subpopulations with cognitive dysfunction. Currently, the most promising GABA modulators appear to be synthetic neurosteroid analogs with positive GABAA receptor modulation (such as brexanolone). Overall, advances in the last decade provide exciting perspectives for those who do not improve with conventional therapies. Of the compounds reviewed here, three are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA): esketamine (Spravato) for TRD, Auvelity (dextromethorphan-bupropion) for major depressive disorder (MDD), and brexanolone (Zulresso) for post-partum depression (PPD). Notably, some concerns have arisen with esketamine and brexanolone, which will be detailed in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M. Vecera
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Alan C. Courtes
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Gregory Jones
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Jair C. Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Rodrigo Machado-Vieira
- John S. Dunn Behavioral Sciences Center at UTHealth Houston, 5615 H.Mark Crosswell Jr St, Houston, TX 77021, USA
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21
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Schwartz OS, Amminger P, Baune BT, Bedi G, Berk M, Cotton SM, Daglas-Georgiou R, Glozier N, Harrison B, Hermens DF, Jennings E, Lagopoulos J, Loo C, Mallawaarachchi S, Martin D, Phelan B, Read N, Rodgers A, Schmaal L, Somogyi AA, Thurston L, Weller A, Davey CG. The Study of Ketamine for Youth Depression (SKY-D): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial of low-dose ketamine for young people with major depressive disorder. Trials 2023; 24:686. [PMID: 37875938 PMCID: PMC10594918 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07631-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing treatments for young people with severe depression have limited effectiveness. The aim of the Study of Ketamine for Youth Depression (SKY-D) trial is to determine whether a 4-week course of low-dose subcutaneous ketamine is an effective adjunct to treatment-as-usual in young people with major depressive disorder (MDD). METHODS SKY-D is a double-masked, randomised controlled trial funded by the Australian Government's National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). Participants aged between 16 and 25 years (inclusive) with moderate-to-severe MDD will be randomised to receive either low-dose ketamine (intervention) or midazolam (active control) via subcutaneous injection once per week for 4 weeks. The primary outcome is change in depressive symptoms on the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) after 4 weeks of treatment. Further follow-up assessment will occur at 8 and 26 weeks from treatment commencement to determine whether treatment effects are sustained and to investigate safety outcomes. DISCUSSION Results from this trial will be important in determining whether low-dose subcutaneous ketamine is an effective treatment for young people with moderate-to-severe MDD. This will be the largest randomised trial to investigate the effects of ketamine to treat depression in young people. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ID: ACTRN12619000683134. Registered on May 7, 2019. https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377513 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Orli S Schwartz
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia.
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bernard T Baune
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gillinder Bedi
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Sue M Cotton
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rothanthi Daglas-Georgiou
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nick Glozier
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Children and Families Over the Life Course, Sydney, Australia
- Professor Marie Bashir Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ben Harrison
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daniel F Hermens
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Emma Jennings
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jim Lagopoulos
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
- Thompson Brain and Mind Healthcare, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Colleen Loo
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sumudu Mallawaarachchi
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Donel Martin
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bethany Phelan
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nikki Read
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anthony Rodgers
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lianne Schmaal
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew A Somogyi
- School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Lily Thurston
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amber Weller
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Victorian Department of Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christopher G Davey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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22
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Fancy F, Rodrigues NB, Di Vincenzo JD, Chau EH, Sethi R, Husain MI, Gill H, Tabassum A, Mckenzie A, Phan L, McIntyre RS, Rosenblat JD. Real-World Effectiveness of Repeated Ketamine Infusions for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Depression. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2023; 21:420-429. [PMID: 38694999 PMCID: PMC11058957 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.23021022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Clinical trials have demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects with intravenous (IV) ketamine for major depressive disorder, with relatively less research specifically for bipolar depression. Herein, we describe the real-world effectiveness of repeated ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant bipolar depression. Methods This study was conducted in a community clinic in Mississauga, Ontario (Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence; Braxia Health). In this observational study (NCT04209296), patients with treatment-resistant bipolar I/II depression (n = 66) received four sub-anesthetic doses of IV ketamine (0.5-0.75 mg/kg) over a two-week period. Symptoms of depression, suicidality, anxiety, and functioning were assessed with validated self-report measures. Results Statistically and clinically significant antidepressant effects were observed in the overall sample, as measured by the Quick Inventory for Depression Symptomatology-Self Report-16 (QIDS-SR16) with further reductions in depressive symptoms observed after each subsequent infusion (n = 66; mean QIDS-SR16 reduction of 6.08+/-1.39; p < 0.0001). Significant reductions of suicidal thoughts (QIDS-SR16-Suicide Item) and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) were also observed with functional improvements on the Sheehan Disability Scale (p < 0.0001 on all measures). Moreover, the response rate (QIDS-SR16 total score decrease ≥50% from baseline) was 35% and remission rate (QIDS-SR16 total score ≤5) was 20% after four infusions. Infusions were generally well tolerated with treatment-emergent hypomania observed in only three patients (4.5%) with zero cases of mania or psychosis. Conclusions Real-world effectiveness of IV ketamine for bipolar depression was observed. Repeated doses were associated with greater symptom reduction and adequate tolerability.Reprinted from Bipolar Disord 2023; 25:99-109, with permission from John Wiley and Sons. Copyright © 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Fancy
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Nelson B Rodrigues
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Joshua D Di Vincenzo
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Edmond H Chau
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Rickinder Sethi
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Muhammad I Husain
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Hartej Gill
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Aniqa Tabassum
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Andrea Mckenzie
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Lee Phan
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
| | - Joshua D Rosenblat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Rodrigues, Di Vicenzo, Sethi, Gill, Tabassum, Mckenzie, Phan, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Fancy, Gill, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada (Chau, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sethi, Husain, McIntyre, Rosenblat); Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Husain); Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre, Rosenblat); Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (McIntyre)
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Talaei A, Farid Hoseini F, Mahdavi M, Salehi M, Karimani A, Afzaljavan F. A Comparison between Single and Double-Dose Intravenous Ketamine Administration in Bipolar Mood Disorder: A Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY 2023; 18:396-405. [PMID: 37881420 PMCID: PMC10593997 DOI: 10.18502/ijps.v18i4.13627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Objective: As glutamatergic system dysfunction is involved in bipolar depression pathophysiology, the glutamate receptor modulators such as Ketamine have been applied as complementary medication for mood stabilizers. While the treatment is currently just the intravenous injection of a single dose, and there is no robust conclusion on Ketamine effectiveness or its side effects in bipolar patients, this study aimed to consider single- and double-dose intravenous injections of Ketamine in bipolar patients compared to the placebo. Method : In a randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial, 30 patients diagnosed with bipolar I and II disorders according to DSM-IV-TR (SCID-I) were randomly divided into three groups: the first group received an intravenous injection of Ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) and placebo with a three-day interval, the second group received two doses of Ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) in the same interval, and the third group received two placebo injections. Patients were assessed for depression, anxiety, and mania at various time points, including before the injection, 60 minutes after the injection, on the first, third, fifth, seventh, and 14th day, as well as at the end of the first month using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Young Mania Scale, respectively. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Repeated measure tests. Results: The mean age of patients was 36.8 ± 7.9 years, with 18 females (60%) and 12 (40%) males. Depression and anxiety showed significant differences in both the single- and double-dose Ketamine groups over time (P < 0.01). Moreover, mania displayed significant changes during the study time in the single- and double-dose Ketamine groups, as well as the in the control group. However, during the study time, there were no significant differences observed in depression, anxiety, and mania among the three groups (P = 0.198, P = 0.416, and P = 0.540, respectively). Patients did not indicate any side effects during the study. Conclusion: Intravenous Ketamine administration may relieve depressive manifestations in bipolar patients. The findings suggest that a double dose of Ketamine does not lead to greater improvement than a single dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Talaei
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farhad Farid Hoseini
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meisam Mahdavi
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Salehi
- Research Center for Patient Safety, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Clinical Research Unit, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Asieh Karimani
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Afzaljavan
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Imam Reza Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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24
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Fancy F, Haikazian S, Johnson DE, Chen-Li DCJ, Levinta A, Husain MI, Mansur RB, Rosenblat JD. Ketamine for bipolar depression: an updated systematic review. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2023; 13:20451253231202723. [PMID: 37771417 PMCID: PMC10524067 DOI: 10.1177/20451253231202723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The therapeutic potential of subanesthetic doses of ketamine appears promising in unipolar depression; however, its effectiveness in treating bipolar depression (BD) remains uncertain. Objective This systematic review aimed to summarize findings on the use of ketamine for the treatment of BD by assessing its efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Design Systematic review. Methods We conducted a systematic review of studies that investigated the use of ketamine for adults with BD. We searched PubMed and Embase for relevant randomized-controlled trials, open-label trials, and retrospective chart analyses published from inception to 13 March 2023. Results Eight studies were identified [pooled n = 235; mean (SD) age: 45.55 (5.54)]. All participants who received intravenous (IV) ketamine were administered a dose of 0.5-0.75 mg/kg as an adjunctive treatment to a mood-stabilizing agent, whereas participants who received esketamine were administered a dosage ranging from 28 to 84 mg. Flexible dosing was used in real-world analyses. A total of 48% of participants receiving ketamine achieved a response (defined as ⩾50% reduction in baseline depression severity), whereas only 5% achieved a response with a placebo. Real-world studies demonstrated lower rates of response (30%) compared to the average across clinical trials (63%). Reductions in suicidal ideation were noted in some studies, although not all findings were statistically significant. Ketamine and esketamine were well tolerated in most participants; however, six participants (2% of the overall sample pool, 5 receiving ketamine) developed hypomanic/manic symptoms after infusions. Significant dissociative symptoms were observed at the 40-min mark in some trials. Conclusion Preliminary evidence suggests IV ketamine as being safe and effective for the treatment of BD. Future studies should focus on investigating the effects of repeated acute and maintenance infusions using a randomized study design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Fancy
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sipan Haikazian
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danica E. Johnson
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David C. J. Chen-Li
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anastasia Levinta
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Muhammad I. Husain
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rodrigo B. Mansur
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua D. Rosenblat
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, 399 Bathurst Street, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Braxia Scientific, Braxia Health, Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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van Elk M, Fried EI. History repeating: guidelines to address common problems in psychedelic science. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2023; 13:20451253231198466. [PMID: 37766730 PMCID: PMC10521293 DOI: 10.1177/20451253231198466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Research in the last decade has expressed considerable optimism about the clinical potential of psychedelics for the treatment of mental disorders. This optimism is reflected in an increase in research papers, investments by pharmaceutical companies, patents, media coverage, as well as political and legislative changes. However, psychedelic science is facing serious challenges that threaten the validity of core findings and raise doubt regarding clinical efficacy and safety. In this paper, we introduce the 10 most pressing challenges, grouped into easy, moderate, and hard problems. We show how these problems threaten internal validity (treatment effects are due to factors unrelated to the treatment), external validity (lack of generalizability), construct validity (unclear working mechanism), or statistical conclusion validity (conclusions do not follow from the data and methods). These problems tend to co-occur in psychedelic studies, limiting conclusions that can be drawn about the safety and efficacy of psychedelic therapy. We provide a roadmap for tackling these challenges and share a checklist that researchers, journalists, funders, policymakers, and other stakeholders can use to assess the quality of psychedelic science. Addressing today's problems is necessary to find out whether the optimism regarding the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been warranted and to avoid history repeating itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel van Elk
- Cognitive Psychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, PO Box 9555, Leiden 2300 RB, The Netherlands
| | - Eiko I. Fried
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
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26
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Chen MH, Lin WC, Li CT, Wu HJ, Bai YM, Tsai SJ, Su TP, Tu PC. Effects of low-dose ketamine infusion on vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase-9 among patients with treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 165:91-95. [PMID: 37487293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence indicates that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) influence the pathophysiology of depression. However, whether low-dose ketamine regulates VEGF and MMP-9 levels and whether changes in VEGF and MMP-9 levels are associated with the antidepressant and antisuicidal effects of ketamine remained unclear. METHODS Forty-eight patients with treatment-resistant depression and strong suicidal ideation (TRD-SI) were randomly assigned to a single infusion of 0.5-mg/kg ketamine or 0.045-mg/kg midazolam. The Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale-Ideation Severity Subscale (CSSRS-ISS) were used at baseline and subsequently at several postinfusion timepoints. VEGF and MMP-9 serum levels were analyzed at baseline and on day 3 postinfusion. RESULTS After adjustment for baseline levels, no significant differences in VEGF (p = .912) and MMP-9 (p = .758) levels were identified on day 3 postinfusion between the study groups. Baseline VEGF levels but not MMP-9 levels were negatively associated with MADRS and CSSRS-ISS scores following infusion. DISCUSSION A single infusion of low-dose ketamine did not alter the VEGF and MMP-9 levels of the patients with TRD-SI. Higher baseline VEGF levels were associated with greater antidepressant and antisuicidal effects of single low-dose ketamine infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mu-Hong Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Wei-Chen Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ta Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ju Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Mei Bai
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Ping Su
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Cheng Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Chi Tu
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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27
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Sen ZD, Chand T, Danyeli LV, Kumar VJ, Colic L, Li M, Yemisken M, Javaheripour N, Refisch A, Opel N, Macharadze T, Kretzschmar M, Ozkan E, Deliano M, Walter M. The effect of ketamine on affective modulation of the startle reflex and its resting-state brain correlates. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13323. [PMID: 37587171 PMCID: PMC10432502 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40099-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine is a rapid-acting antidepressant that also influences neural reactivity to affective stimuli. However, the effect of ketamine on behavioral affective reactivity is yet to be elucidated. The affect-modulated startle reflex paradigm (AMSR) allows examining the valence-specific aspects of behavioral affective reactivity. We hypothesized that ketamine alters the modulation of the startle reflex during processing of unpleasant and pleasant stimuli and weakens the resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) within the modulatory pathway, namely between the centromedial nucleus of the amygdala and nucleus reticularis pontis caudalis. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study, thirty-two healthy male participants underwent ultra-high field resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging at 7 T before and 24 h after placebo and S-ketamine infusions. Participants completed the AMSR task at baseline and one day after each infusion. In contrast to our hypothesis, ketamine infusion did not impact startle potentiation during processing of unpleasant stimuli but resulted in diminished startle attenuation during processing of pleasant stimuli. This diminishment significantly correlated with end-of-infusion plasma levels of ketamine and norketamine. Furthermore, ketamine induced a decrease in rsFC within the modulatory startle reflex pathway. The results of this first study on the effect of ketamine on the AMSR suggest that ketamine might attenuate the motivational significance of pleasant stimuli in healthy participants one day after infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zümrüt Duygu Sen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg Site, Jena, Germany
| | - Tara Chand
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Am Steiger 3-1, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Jindal Institute of Behavioural Sciences, O. P. Jindal Global University (Sonipat), Haryana, India
| | - Lena Vera Danyeli
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Lejla Colic
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg Site, Jena, Germany
| | - Meng Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg Site, Jena, Germany
| | - Merve Yemisken
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Nooshin Javaheripour
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Refisch
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Nils Opel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg Site, Jena, Germany
| | - Tamar Macharadze
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Department Systems Physiology of Learning, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Moritz Kretzschmar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Esra Ozkan
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Matthias Deliano
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Combinatorial NeuroImaging Core Facility, Brenneckestraße 6, 39118, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Martin Walter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, Philosophenweg 3, 07743, Jena, Germany.
- Clinical Affective Neuroimaging Laboratory (CANLAB), Magdeburg, Germany.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Halle-Jena-Magdeburg Site, Jena, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Tübingen, Germany.
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.
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Nikolin S, Rodgers A, Schwaab A, Bahji A, Zarate C, Vazquez G, Loo C. Ketamine for the treatment of major depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 62:102127. [PMID: 37593223 PMCID: PMC10430179 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intranasal esketamine has received regulatory approvals for the treatment of depression. Recently a large trial of repeated dose racemic ketamine also demonstrated efficacy in severe depression. However, uncertainties remain regarding comparative efficacy, dosage, and the time course of response. Methods In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched Embase, Medline, Pubmed, PsycINFO, and CENTRAL up to April 13, 2023, for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating ketamine for depression. Two investigators independently assessed study eligibility and risk of bias and extracted the data on depression severity scores, response and remission rates, and all-cause dropouts. Multivariable mixed-effects meta-regressions incorporated drug formulation (racemic (Rac) or esketamine (Esket)) and dose (Low or High) as covariates. Treatment effects were assessed: immediately following the first dose, during further repeated dosing, and follow-up after the final dose of a treatment course. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021221157). Findings The systematic review identified 687 articles, of which 49 RCTs were eligible for analysis, comprising 3299 participants. Standardised mean differences (95% confidence intervals) immediately following the first/single treatment were moderate-high for all conditions (Rac-High: -0.73, -0.91 to -0.56; Esket-High: -0.48, -0.75 to -0.20; Rac-Low: -0.33, -0.54 to -0.12; Esket-Low: -0.55, -0.87 to -0.24). Ongoing effects during repeated dosing were significantly greater than the control for Rac-High (-0.61; -1.02 to -0.20) and Rac-Low (-0.55, -1.09 to -0.00), but not Esket-Low (-0.15, -0.49 to 0.19) or Esket-High (-0.22, -0.54 to 0.10). At follow-up effects remained significant for racemic ketamine (-0.65; -1.23 to -0.07) but not esketamine (-0.33; -0.96 to 0.31). All-cause dropout was similar between experiment and control conditions for both formulations combined (Odds Ratio = 1.18, 0.85-1.64). Overall heterogeneity varied from 5.7% to 87.6. Interpretation Our findings suggested that effect sizes for depression severity, as well as response and remission rates, were numerically greater for racemic ketamine than esketamine. Higher doses were more effective than low doses. Differences were evident in initial effects, ongoing treatment, and lasting effects after the final dose. Funding None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stevan Nikolin
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony Rodgers
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Anees Bahji
- Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Carlos Zarate
- Section Neurobiology and Treatment of Mood Disorders, Division of Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1282, Building 10CRC, Room 7-5342, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Gustavo Vazquez
- Section Neurobiology and Treatment of Mood Disorders, Division of Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1282, Building 10CRC, Room 7-5342, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Colleen Loo
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Black Dog Institute, Sydney, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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29
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Gałuszko-Wȩgielnik M, Jakuszkowiak-Wojten K, Wiglusz MS, Cubała WJ, Pastuszak M. Central nervous system-related safety and tolerability of add-on ketamine to standard of care treatment in treatment-resistant psychotic depression in patients with major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1214972. [PMID: 37496742 PMCID: PMC10366536 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1214972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Psychotic treatment-resistant depression represents a complex and challenging form of mood disorder in clinical practice. Despite its severity, psychotic depression is frequently underdiagnosed and inadequately treated. Ketamine has demonstrated rapid and potent antidepressant effects in clinical studies, while exhibiting a favorable safety and tolerability profile. Although there is limited literature available on the use of ketamine in psychotic TRD, reports on its efficacy, safety, and tolerability profile are of great interest to clinicians. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between dissociative symptomatology and psychomimetic effects in inpatients with treatment-resistant major psychotic depression and treatment-resistant bipolar psychotic depression, who receive intravenous ketamine treatment alongside psychotropic medication, both during and after treatment. Materials and methods A total of 36 patients diagnosed with treatment-resistant unipolar (17 patients) or bipolar (18 patients) depression with psychotic features were treated with eight intravenous infusions of 0.5 mg/kg ketamine twice a week over 4 weeks. Ketamine was given in addition to their standard of care treatment. The severity of depressive symptoms was evaluated using the MADRS, while dissociative and psychomimetic symptoms were assessed using the CADSS and BPRS, respectively. Results There were no statistically significant changes observed in MADRS, CADSS, and BPRS scores within the study group during ketamine infusions. However, significant improvements in MADRS, CADSS, and BPRS scores were observed during ketamine infusions in both the unipolar and bipolar depression groups. Conclusion This study provides support for the lack of exacerbation of psychotic symptoms in both unipolar and bipolar depression.
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30
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Hietamies TM, McInnes LA, Klise AJ, Worley MJ, Qian JJ, Williams LM, Heifets BD, Levine SP. The effects of ketamine on symptoms of depression and anxiety in real-world care settings: A retrospective controlled analysis. J Affect Disord 2023:S0165-0327(23)00611-0. [PMID: 37201900 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ketamine intravenous therapy (KIT) appears effective for treating depression in controlled trials testing a short series of infusions. A rapidly proliferating number of clinics offer KIT for depression and anxiety, using protocols without a strong evidence basis. Controlled comparison of mood and anxiety from real-world KIT clinics, and the stability of outcomes, is lacking. METHODS We performed a retrospective controlled analysis on patients treated with KIT in ten community clinics across the US, between 08/2017-03/2020. Depression and anxiety symptoms were evaluated using the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology-Self Report 16-item (QIDS) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scales, respectively. Comparison data sets from patients who did not undergo KIT were obtained from previously published real-world studies. RESULTS Of 2758 patients treated, 714 and 836 met criteria for analysis of KIT induction and maintenance outcomes, respectively. Patients exhibited significant and concordant reduction in both anxiety and depression symptoms after induction (Cohen's d = 1.14 and d = 0.9, respectively). Compared to two external datasets of KIT-naive depressed patients or patients starting standard antidepressant therapy, KIT patients experienced a significantly greater reduction in depression symptoms at eight weeks (Cohen's d = -1.03 and d = -0.62 respectively). Furthermore, we identified a subpopulation of late-responders. During maintenance, up to a year post-induction, increases in symptoms were minimal. LIMITATIONS Due to the retrospective nature of the analyses, interpreting this dataset is limited by incomplete patient information and sample attrition. CONCLUSIONS KIT treatment elicited robust symptomatic relief that remained stable up to one year of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuuli M Hietamies
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | | | - Andrew J Klise
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | | | - Jimmy J Qian
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Osmind, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - Boris D Heifets
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Kew BM, Porter RJ, Douglas KM, Glue P, Mentzel CL, Beaglehole B. Ketamine and psychotherapy for the treatment of psychiatric disorders: systematic review. BJPsych Open 2023; 9:e79. [PMID: 37128856 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2023.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ketamine is an effective short-term treatment for a range of psychiatric disorders. A key question is whether the addition of psychotherapy to ketamine treatment improves outcomes or delays relapse. AIM To identify all studies combining psychotherapy with ketamine for the treatment of psychiatric disorders to summarise their effects and make recommendations for future research. METHOD The review protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022318120). Potential studies were searched for in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, the Cochrane library and Google Scholar. Eligible studies combined ketamine and psychotherapy for the treatment of psychiatric disorders and did not use case reports or qualitative designs. Key findings relating to psychotherapy type, diagnosis, ketamine protocol, sequencing of psychotherapy and study design are reported. Risk of bias was assessed using modified Joanna Briggs critical appraisal tools. RESULTS Nineteen studies evaluating 1006 patients were included in the systematic review. A variety of supportive individual and group, manualised and non-manualised psychotherapies were used. The majority of studies evaluated substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine protocols and sequencing of ketamine/psychotherapy treatment varied substantially between studies. Outcomes were largely positive for the addition of psychotherapy to ketamine treatment. CONCLUSION The combination of psychotherapy and ketamine offers promise for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, but study heterogeneity prevents definitive recommendations for their integration. Larger randomised controlled trials using manualised psychotherapies and standardised ketamine protocols are recommended to clarify the extent to which the addition of psychotherapy to ketamine improves outcomes over ketamine treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bess M Kew
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Richard J Porter
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Katie M Douglas
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Paul Glue
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Charlotte L Mentzel
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ben Beaglehole
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Veraart J, van Westenbrugge M, van Wulfften Palthe J, van der Meij A, Schoevers R, de Jong J. Repeated oral esketamine in patients with treatment resistant depression and comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15883. [PMID: 37223704 PMCID: PMC10200841 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Ketamine and its S-enantiomer esketamine are novel pharmacotherapeutic options for treatment resistant depression (TRD). There is growing evidence on the efficacy for other psychiatric disorders, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is hypothesized that psychotherapy may further potentiate the effects of (es)ketamine in psychiatric disorders. Methods Repeated oral esketamine was prescribed once or twice weekly in five patients suffering from TRD and comorbid PTSD. We describe the clinical effects of esketamine and report data from psychometric instruments and patients' perspectives. Results Esketamine treatment duration ranged from six weeks to a year. In four patients, we observed improvement in depressive symptoms, increased resilience and more receptiveness to psychotherapy. One patient experienced symptom worsening in response to a threatening situation during esketamine treatment, highlighting the need for a safe setting. Discussion (Es)ketamine treatment within a psychotherapeutic framework appears promising in patients with treatment resistant symptoms of depression and PTSD. Controlled trials are warranted to validate these results and to elucidate the optimal treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.K.E. Veraart
- PsyQ Depression Treatment Centre, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - M. van Westenbrugge
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - A. van der Meij
- Pro Persona Mental Health Care, Depression Expertise Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - R.A. Schoevers
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - J. de Jong
- PsyQ Psychotrauma Department, The Hague, the Netherlands
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Belge JB, Sabbe ACF, Sabbe BGCC. An update on pharmacotherapy for recurrent depression in 2022. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:1387-1394. [PMID: 37300545 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2223962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Major depressive disorder remains a major challenge due to its biopsychosocial burden with increased morbidity and mortality. Despite successful treatment options for the acute episode, recurrence rates are high, on average four times in a life span. AREAS COVERED Both pharmacological as non-pharmacological evidence-based therapeutic options to prevent and treat recurrent depression are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Although some risk factors for recurrence are well known, better evidence is needed. Antidepressant medication should be continued after acute treatment at its full therapeutic dose for longer periods, at least 1 year. There are no clear differences between classes of antidepressant medication when treatment is focused on preventing relapse. Bupropion is the only antidepressant with a proven efficacy to prevent recurrence in seasonal affective disorder. Recent findings conclude maintenance subanesthetic ketamine and esketamine treatment can be effective in sustaining antidepressant effect following remission. Furthermore, the pharmacological approach must be integrated with lifestyle interventions, especially aerobic exercise. Finally, combining pharma- and psychotherapy seems to improve outcome. Network and complexity sciences will help to decrease the high recurrence rates of MDD by developing more integrative and personalized approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Baptiste Belge
- Department of Psychiatry, Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Amber C F Sabbe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
- Campus Drie Eiken, Universiteitsplein 1, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Bernard G C C Sabbe
- Department of Psychiatry, Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
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Lewis V, Bonniwell EM, Lanham JK, Ghaffari A, Sheshbaradaran H, Cao AB, Calkins MM, Bautista-Carro MA, Arsenault E, Telfer A, Taghavi-Abkuh FF, Malcolm NJ, El Sayegh F, Abizaid A, Schmid Y, Morton K, Halberstadt AL, Aguilar-Valles A, McCorvy JD. A non-hallucinogenic LSD analog with therapeutic potential for mood disorders. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112203. [PMID: 36884348 PMCID: PMC10112881 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hallucinations limit widespread therapeutic use of psychedelics as rapidly acting antidepressants. Here we profiled the non-hallucinogenic lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) analog 2-bromo-LSD (2-Br-LSD) at more than 33 aminergic G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). 2-Br-LSD shows partial agonism at several aminergic GPCRs, including 5-HT2A, and does not induce the head-twitch response (HTR) in mice, supporting its classification as a non-hallucinogenic 5-HT2A partial agonist. Unlike LSD, 2-Br-LSD lacks 5-HT2B agonism, an effect linked to cardiac valvulopathy. Additionally, 2-Br-LSD produces weak 5-HT2A β-arrestin recruitment and internalization in vitro and does not induce tolerance in vivo after repeated administration. 2-Br-LSD induces dendritogenesis and spinogenesis in cultured rat cortical neurons and increases active coping behavior in mice, an effect blocked by the 5-HT2A-selective antagonist volinanserin (M100907). 2-Br-LSD also reverses the behavioral effects of chronic stress. Overall, 2-Br-LSD has an improved pharmacological profile compared with LSD and may have profound therapeutic value for mood disorders and other indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vern Lewis
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Emma M Bonniwell
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Janelle K Lanham
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Abdi Ghaffari
- BetterLife Pharma Inc., Vancouver, BC V6H 1A6, Canada
| | | | - Andrew B Cao
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Maggie M Calkins
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | | | - Emily Arsenault
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Andre Telfer
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | | | - Nicholas J Malcolm
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Fatema El Sayegh
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Alfonso Abizaid
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Yasmin Schmid
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Kathleen Morton
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Adam L Halberstadt
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | | | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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Montano CB, Jackson WC, Vanacore D, Weisler R. Considerations when selecting an antidepressant: a narrative review for primary care providers treating adults with depression. Postgrad Med 2023:1-17. [PMID: 36912037 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2023.2189868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating mental disorder that can be treated with a number of different antidepressant therapies, each with its own unique prescribing considerations. Complicating the selection of an appropriate antidepressant for adults with MDD is the heterogeneity of clinical profiles and depression subtypes. Additionally, patient comorbidities, preferences, and likelihood of adhering to treatment must all be considered when selecting an appropriate therapy. With the majority of prescriptions being written by primary care practitioners, it is appropriate to review the unique characteristics of all available antidepressants, including safety considerations. Prior to initiating antidepressant treatment and when patients do not respond adequately to initial therapy and/or exhibit any hypomanic or manic symptoms, bipolar disorder must be ruled out, and evaluation for psychiatric comorbidities must be considered as well. Patients with an inadequate response may then require a treatment switch to another drug with a different mechanism of action, combination, or augmentation strategy. In this narrative review, we propose that careful selection of the most appropriate antidepressant for adult patients with MDD based on their clinical profile and comorbidities is vital for initial treatment selection.Strategies must be considered for addressing partial and inadequate responses as well to help patients achieve full remission and sustained functional recovery. This review also highlights data for MDD clinical outcomes for which gaps in the literature have been identified, including the effects of antidepressants on functional outcomes, sleep disturbances, emotional and cognitive blunting, anxiety, and residual symptoms of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Brendan Montano
- Montano Wellness LLC, CT Clinical Research, University of Connecticut Medical School, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - W Clay Jackson
- West Cancer Center, Department of Family Medicine and Department of Psychiatry, University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | - Richard Weisler
- P.A. & Associates; Department of Psychiatry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Association of the delayed changes in glutamate levels and functional connectivity with the immediate network effects of S-ketamine. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:60. [PMID: 36797238 PMCID: PMC9935558 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02346-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine shows rapid antidepressant effects peaking 24 h after administration. The antidepressant effects may occur through changes in glutamatergic metabolite levels and resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) within the default mode network (DMN). A multistage drug effect of ketamine has been suggested, inducing acute effects on dysfunctional network configuration and delayed effects on homeostatic synaptic plasticity. Whether the DMN-centered delayed antidepressant-related changes are associated with the immediate changes remains unknown. Thirty-five healthy male participants (25.1 ± 4.2 years) underwent 7 T magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rsfMRI) before, during, and 24 h after a single S-ketamine or placebo infusion. Changes in glutamatergic measures and rsFC in the DMN node pregenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC) were examined. A delayed rsFC decrease of the pgACC to inferior parietal lobe (family-wise error corrected p (pFWEc) = 0.018) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC; pFWEc = 0.002) was detected that was preceded by an immediate rsFC increase of the pgACC to medial PFC (pFWEc < 0.001) and dorsomedial PFC (pFWEc = 0.005). Additionally, the immediate rsFC reconfigurations correlated with the delayed pgACC glutamate (Glu) level increase (p = 0.024) after 24 h at trend level (p = 0.067). Baseline measures of rsFC and MRS were furthermore associated with the magnitude of the respective delayed changes (p's < 0.05). In contrast, the delayed changes were not associated with acute psychotomimetic side effects or plasma concentrations of ketamine and its metabolites. This multimodal study suggests an association between immediate S-ketamine-induced network effects and delayed brain changes at a time point relevant in its clinical context.
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37
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Onisiforou A, Georgiou P, Zanos P. Role of group II metabotropic glutamate receptors in ketamine's antidepressant actions. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023; 223:173531. [PMID: 36841543 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a serious neuropsychiatric disorder afflicting around 16-17 % of the global population and is accompanied by recurrent episodes of low mood, hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. Current pharmacological interventions take several weeks to even months for an improvement in depressive symptoms to emerge, with a significant percentage of individuals not responding to these medications at all, thus highlighting the need for rapid and effective next-generation treatments for MDD. Pre-clinical studies in animals have demonstrated that antagonists of the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 2/3 (mGlu2/3 receptor) exert rapid antidepressant-like effects, comparable to the actions of ketamine. Therefore, it is possible that mGlu2 or mGlu3 receptors to have a regulatory role on the unique antidepressant properties of ketamine, or that convergent intracellular mechanisms exist between mGlu2/3 receptor signaling and ketamine's effects. Here, we provide a comprehensive and critical evaluation of the literature on these convergent processes underlying the antidepressant action of mGlu2/3 receptor inhibitors and ketamine. Importantly, combining sub-threshold doses of mGlu2/3 receptor inhibitors with sub-antidepressant ketamine doses induce synergistic antidepressant-relevant behavioral effects. We review the evidence supporting these combinatorial effects since sub-effective dosages of mGlu2/3 receptor antagonists and ketamine could reduce the risk for the emergence of significant adverse events compared with taking normal dosages. Overall, deconvolution of ketamine's pharmacological targets will give critical insights to influence the development of next-generation antidepressant treatments with rapid actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Onisiforou
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
| | - Polymnia Georgiou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA
| | - Panos Zanos
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus.
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Asch RH, Hillmer AT, Baldassarri SR, Esterlis I. The metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 as a biomarker for psychiatric disorders. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2023; 168:265-310. [PMID: 36868631 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2022.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The role of glutamate system in the etiology and pathophysiology of psychiatric disorders has gained considerable attention in the past two decades, including dysregulation of the metabotropic glutamatergic receptor subtype 5 (mGlu5). Thus, mGlu5 may represent a promising therapeutic target for psychiatric conditions, particularly stress-related disorders. Here, we describe mGlu5 findings in mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma disorders, as well as substance use (specifically nicotine, cannabis, and alcohol use). We highlight insights gained from positron emission tomography (PET) studies, where possible, and discuss findings from treatment trials, when available, to explore the role of mGlu5 in these psychiatric disorders. Through the research evidence reviewed in this chapter, we make the argument that, not only is dysregulation of mGlu5 evident in numerous psychiatric disorders, potentially functioning as a disease "biomarker," the normalization of glutamate neurotransmission via changes in mGlu5 expression and/or modulation of mGlu5 signaling may be a needed component in treating some psychiatric disorders or symptoms. Finally, we hope to demonstrate the utility of PET as an important tool for investigating mGlu5 in disease mechanisms and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth H Asch
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States.
| | - Ansel T Hillmer
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Stephen R Baldassarri
- Yale Program in Addiction Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Irina Esterlis
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States; Clinical Neurosciences Division, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, United States
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Due to bipolar disorder clinical heterogeneity, a plethora of studies have provided new genetic, epigenetic, molecular, and cellular findings associated with its pathophysiology. RECENT FINDINGS Genome-wide association studies and epigenetic evidence points to genotype-phenotype interactions associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, abnormalities in signaling pathways, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and circadian rhythm linked to mitochondrial dysfunction in bipolar disorder. Although the literature is constantly increasing, most of the genetic variants proposed as biomarkers remain to be validated by independent groups and use bigger samples and longitudinal approaches to enhance their power and predictive ability. SUMMARY Regardless of which of the mechanisms described here plays a primary or secondary role in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder, all of these interact to worsen clinical outcomes for patients. Identifying new biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and response to treatment might provide novel targets to prevent progression and promote general well being.
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40
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The Incidental Resolution of Severe Alcohol Use Disorder during Esketamine Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: A Case Report. Case Rep Psychiatry 2022; 2022:8992697. [PMID: 36568330 PMCID: PMC9779988 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8992697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is especially prevalent among individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) and is associated with higher morbidity, mortality, disability, and risk for suicide. Intranasal esketamine has been documented to be a safe and effective option for treatment resistant MDD and received US FDA approval in 2019. However, the availability of esketamine is limited due to requirements for a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy program for its administration as well as concerns over substance use disorders (SUD) as a potential contraindication or adverse effect. This case presents a 61-year-old female with a history of severe recurrent treatment resistant MDD and severe AUD who has expressed interest in esketamine. To date, she has completed 20 sessions of 56 mg intranasal esketamine twice a week before increasing to 5 weekly sessions and then 14 weekly sessions of 84 mg. Although there was immediate subjective improvement in mood as well as reductions in PHQ-9 and HAM-D scores, the dosage was increased to extend the therapeutic benefit throughout the entire intertreatment interval. She was able to complete these sessions without complication. Incidentally, she also reported decreased desire to use alcohol, decreased impulsivity, and the complete cessation of alcohol use by the second week. While on 56 mg, she had a single relapse of binging which was addressed with motivational therapy and has remained alcohol-free since. This case presents the first documented example of the safe and effective use of intranasal esketamine in patient with treatment resistant MDD in which there was incidental resolution of their comorbid severe AUD. This suggests that esketamine can be used without risk of SUD onset or exacerbation. Thus, esketamine should not be discounted in patients with SUD and continued research is needed to further elucidate its role in treating SUD.
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Dutton M, Can AT, Lagopoulos J, Hermens DF. Stress, mental disorder and ketamine as a novel, rapid acting treatment. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 65:15-29. [PMID: 36206584 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The experience of stress is often utilised in models of emerging mental illness and neurobiological systems are implicated as the intermediary link between the experience of psychological stress and the development of a mental disorder. Chronic stress and prolonged glucocorticoid exposure have potent effects on neuronal architecture particularly in regions that modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and are commonly associated with psychiatric disorders. This review provides an overview of stress modulating neurobiological and neurochemical systems which underpin stress-related structural and functional brain changes. These changes are thought to contribute not only to the development of disorders, but also to the treatment resistance and chronicity seen in some of our most challenging mental disorders. Reports to date suggest that stress-related psychopathology is the aetiological mechanism of these disorders and thus we review the rapid acting antidepressant ketamine as an effective emerging treatment. Ketamine, an N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, is shown to induce a robust treatment effect in mental disorders via enhanced synaptic strength and connectivity in key brain regions. Whilst ketamine's glutamatergic effect has been previously examined, we further consider ketamine's capacity to modulate the HPA axis and associated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Dutton
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, 12 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya, Queensland 4575, Australia.
| | - Adem T Can
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, 12 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya, Queensland 4575, Australia
| | - Jim Lagopoulos
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, 12 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya, Queensland 4575, Australia
| | - Daniel F Hermens
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, 12 Innovation Parkway, Birtinya, Queensland 4575, Australia
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Smith-Apeldoorn SY, Veraart JK, Spijker J, Kamphuis J, Schoevers RA. Maintenance ketamine treatment for depression: a systematic review of efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Lancet Psychiatry 2022; 9:907-921. [PMID: 36244360 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00317-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ketamine has rapid yet often transient antidepressant effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression. Different strategies have been proposed to prolong these effects. Maintenance ketamine treatment appears promising, but little is known about its efficacy, safety, and tolerability in depression. We searched Pubmed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library and identified three randomised controlled trials, eight open-label trials, and 30 case series and reports on maintenance ketamine treatment. We found intravenous, intranasal, oral, and possibly intramuscular and subcutaneous maintenance ketamine treatment to be effective in sustaining antidepressant effect in treatment-resistant depression. Tachyphylaxis, cognitive impairment, addiction, and serious renal and urinary problems seem uncommon. Despite the methodological limitations, we conclude that from a clinical view, maintenance ketamine treatment seems to be of therapeutic potential. We recommend both controlled and naturalistic studies with long-term follow-up and sufficient power to determine the position of maintenance ketamine treatment within routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Y Smith-Apeldoorn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands.
| | - Jolien Ke Veraart
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands; Department of Mood Disorders, PsyQ Haaglanden, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Jan Spijker
- Pro Persona Mental Health Care, Depression Expertise Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Jeanine Kamphuis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Robert A Schoevers
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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Altman BR, Earleywine M, De Leo J. Exploring the Credibility of Psilocybin-assisted Therapy and Cognitive-behavioral Therapy for Depression. J Psychoactive Drugs 2022; 54:462-470. [PMID: 34979875 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2021.2020382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Depression treatments succeed with many but leave others unimproved, and they can generate concerns about side effects, time, and cost. Psilocybin has generated media attention and empirical support for antidepressant effects, but lay impressions of its effectiveness are unclear. Although perceptions of treatment credibility contribute to outcome, beliefs about the credibility of psilocybin-assisted therapy (PAT) among potential patients remain uninvestigated, especially relative to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a common, empirically-validated approach. The present study examined credibility ratings for CBT and PAT among individuals reporting depressive symptoms. Participants (N = 803) from Amazon's MTurk platform reported demographics, depressive symptoms, and psychotherapy experience, then read data-based vignettes describing each therapy and rated their credibility. Individuals rated CBT as more credible than PAT. Those with therapy experience rated CBT as more credible than those without. Men and lifetime hallucinogen users rated PAT more credible than women and non-users, but few other predictors accounted for much variance in credibility. Results suggest that potential clients appear cautious about PAT. As continued work examines the effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted interventions, researchers and clinicians must consider patients' beliefs about treatments as potential predictors of outcomes. Additionally, the paradigm used here might have potential for examining credibility of many interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brianna R Altman
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Mitch Earleywine
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
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44
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The neuroprotective and neuroplastic potential of glutamatergic therapeutic drugs in bipolar disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104906. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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McQuaid JR, Buelt A, Capaldi V, Fuller M, Issa F, Lang AE, Hoge C, Oslin DW, Sall J, Wiechers IR, Williams S. The Management of Major Depressive Disorder: Synopsis of the 2022 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and U.S. Department of Defense Clinical Practice Guideline. Ann Intern Med 2022; 175:1440-1451. [PMID: 36122380 DOI: 10.7326/m22-1603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
DESCRIPTION In February 2022, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) approved a joint clinical practice guideline (CPG) for the management of major depressive disorder (MDD). This synopsis summarizes key recommendations. METHODS Senior leaders within the VA and the DoD assembled a team to update the 2016 CPG for the management of MDD that included clinical stakeholders and conformed to the National Academy of Medicine's tenets for trustworthy CPGs. The guideline panel developed key questions, systematically searched and evaluated the literature, created two 1-page algorithms, and distilled 36 recommendations for care using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system. Select recommendations that were identified by the authors to represent key changes from the prior CPG are presented in this synopsis. RECOMMENDATIONS The scope of the CPG is diverse; however, this synopsis focuses on key recommendations that the authors identified as important new evidence and changes to prior recommendations on pharmacologic management, pharmacogenomics, psychotherapy, complementary and alternative therapies, and the use of telemedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R McQuaid
- San Francisco VA Health Care System, and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California (J.R.M.)
| | - Andrew Buelt
- C.W. Bill Young Veterans Administration Medical Center, Bay Pines, Florida (A.B.)
| | - Vincent Capaldi
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland (V.C.)
| | - Matthew Fuller
- VHA Pharmacy Benefits Management Services, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Mentor, Ohio, and Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio (M.F.)
| | - Fuad Issa
- Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland (F.I.)
| | - Adam Edward Lang
- Department of Primary Care, McDonald Army Health Center, Fort Eustis, Virginia, and Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia (A.E.L.)
| | - Charles Hoge
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland (C.H.)
| | - David W Oslin
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, and Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (D.W.O.)
| | - James Sall
- Veterans Administration Central Office, Washington, DC (J.S.)
| | - Ilse R Wiechers
- Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California (I.R.W.)
| | - Scott Williams
- Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, Maryland, and School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio (S.W.)
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At-home, sublingual ketamine telehealth is a safe and effective treatment for moderate to severe anxiety and depression: Findings from a large, prospective, open-label effectiveness trial. J Affect Disord 2022; 314:59-67. [PMID: 35809678 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At-home Ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT) with psychosocial support and remote monitoring through telehealth platforms addresses access barriers, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Large-scale evaluation of this approach is needed for questions regarding safety and effectiveness for depression and anxiety. METHODS In this prospective study, a large outpatient sample received KAT over four weeks through a telehealth provider. Symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) for depression, and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7) for anxiety. Demographics, adverse events, and patient-reported dissociation were also analyzed. Symptom trajectories were identified using Growth Mixture Modeling, along with outcome predictors. RESULTS A sample of 1247 completed treatment with sufficient data, 62.8 % reported a 50 % or greater improvement on the PHQ-9, d = 1.61, and 62.9 % on the GAD-7, d = 1.56. Remission rates were 32.6 % for PHQ-9 and 31.3 % for GAD-7, with 0.9 % deteriorating on the PHQ-9, and 0.6 % on the GAD-7. Four patients left treatment early due to side effects or clinician disqualification, and two more due to adverse events. Three patient subpopulations emerged, characterized by Improvement (79.3 %), Chronic (11.4 %), and Delayed Improvement (9.3 %) for PHQ-9 and GAD-7. Endorsing side effects at Session 2 was associated with delayed symptom improvement, and Chronic patients were more likely than the other two groups to report dissociation at Session 4. CONCLUSION At-home KAT response and remission rates indicated rapid and significant antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. Rates were consistent with laboratory- and clinic-administered ketamine treatment. Patient screening and remote monitoring maintained low levels of adverse events. Future research should assess durability of effects.
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Pilc A, Machaczka A, Kawalec P, Smith JL, Witkin JM. Where do we go next in antidepressant drug discovery? A new generation of antidepressants: a pivotal role of AMPA receptor potentiation and mGlu2/3 receptor antagonism. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2022; 17:1131-1146. [PMID: 35934973 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2111415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Major depressive disorder remains a prevalent world-wide health problem. Currently available antidepressant medications take weeks of dosing, do not produce antidepressant response in all patients, and have undesirable ancillary effects. AREAS COVERED The present opinion piece focuses on the major inroads to the creation of new antidepressants. These include N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists and related compounds like ketamine, psychedelic drugs like psilocybin, and muscarinic receptor antagonists like scopolamine. The preclinical and clinical pharmacological profile of these new-age antidepressant drugs is discussed. EXPERT OPINION Preclinical and clinical data have accumulated to predict a next generation of antidepressant medicines. In contrast to the current standard of care antidepressant drugs, these compounds differ in that they demonstrate rapid activity, often after a single dose, and effects that outlive their presence in brain. These compounds also can provide efficacy for treatment-resistant depressed patients. The mechanism of action of these compounds suggests a strong glutamatergic component that involves the facilitation of AMPA receptor function. Antagonism of mGlu2/3 receptors is also relevant to the antidepressant pharmacology of this new class of drugs. Based upon the ongoing efforts to develop these new-age antidepressants, new drug approvals are predicted in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Pilc
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland.,Drug Management Department, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Agata Machaczka
- Department of Neurobiology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow, Poland
| | - Paweł Kawalec
- Drug Management Department, Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jodi L Smith
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Witkin
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Medeiros GC, Gould TD, Prueitt WL, Nanavati J, Grunebaum MF, Farber NB, Singh B, Selvaraj S, Machado-Vieira R, Achtyes ED, Parikh SV, Frye MA, Zarate CA, Goes FS. Blood-based biomarkers of antidepressant response to ketamine and esketamine: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3658-3669. [PMID: 35760879 PMCID: PMC9933928 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01652-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
(R,S)-ketamine (ketamine) and its enantiomer (S)-ketamine (esketamine) can produce rapid and substantial antidepressant effects. However, individual response to ketamine/esketamine is variable, and there are no well-accepted methods to differentiate persons who are more likely to benefit. Numerous potential peripheral biomarkers have been reported, but their current utility is unclear. We conducted a systematic review/meta-analysis examining the association between baseline levels and longitudinal changes in blood-based biomarkers, and response to ketamine/esketamine. Of the 5611 citations identified, 56 manuscripts were included (N = 2801 participants), and 26 were compatible with meta-analytical calculations. Random-effect models were used, and effect sizes were reported as standardized mean differences (SMD). Our assessments revealed that more than 460 individual biomarkers were examined. Frequently studied groups included neurotrophic factors (n = 15), levels of ketamine and ketamine metabolites (n = 13), and inflammatory markers (n = 12). There were no consistent associations between baseline levels of blood-based biomarkers, and response to ketamine. However, in a longitudinal analysis, ketamine responders had statistically significant increases in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) when compared to pre-treatment levels (SMD [95% CI] = 0.26 [0.03, 0.48], p = 0.02), whereas non-responders showed no significant changes in BDNF levels (SMD [95% CI] = 0.05 [-0.19, 0.28], p = 0.70). There was no consistent evidence to support any additional longitudinal biomarkers. Findings were inconclusive for esketamine due to the small number of studies (n = 2). Despite a diverse and substantial literature, there is limited evidence that blood-based biomarkers are associated with response to ketamine, and no current evidence of clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo C. Medeiros
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Todd D. Gould
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Departments of Pharmacology and Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Veterans Affairs Maryland Health Care System, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Julie Nanavati
- Welch Medical Library, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael F. Grunebaum
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Nuri B. Farber
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Balwinder Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sudhakar Selvaraj
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rodrigo Machado-Vieira
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eric D. Achtyes
- Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA.,Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Sagar V. Parikh
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mark A. Frye
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Carlos A. Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics & Pathophysiology Branch, NIMH-NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Fernando S. Goes
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to Fernando S. Goes.,
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Phillips JL, Van Geel A, Burhunduli P, Vasudev D, Batten LA, Norris S, Talbot J, Ortiz A, Owoeye O, Blier P. Assessment of Objective and Subjective Cognitive Function in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression Undergoing Repeated Ketamine Infusions. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2022; 25:992-1002. [PMID: 35931041 PMCID: PMC9743964 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyac045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subanesthetic ketamine infusions can elicit rapid and sustained antidepressant effects, yet the potential cognitive impact of ketamine has not been thoroughly examined. This study measured changes in objective and subjective cognitive function following repeated ketamine treatment. METHODS Thirty-eight patients with treatment-resistant depression were administered cognitive assessments before and after undergoing 7 i.v. ketamine infusions (0.5 mg/kg over 40 minutes) within a clinical trial examining the efficacy of single and repeated administrations. Depression severity and perceived concentration were evaluated with the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptoms Self-Report. RESULTS Twenty-three participants (60.5%) responded after repeated infusions (≥50% decrease in MADRS total scores). We measured significant improvements in several cognitive domains, including attention, working memory, verbal, and visuospatial memory (effect sizes ranging from Cohen d = 0.37-0.79). Cognitive changes were attributed to reduction in depressive symptoms except for improvement in verbal memory, which remained significant after adjustment for change in MADRS total score (P = .029, η p2 = 0.13). Only responders reported improvement in subjective cognitive function with repeated ketamine administration (MADRS item 6, P < .001, d = 2.00; Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptoms Self-Report item 10, P < .001, d = 1.36). CONCLUSION A short course of repeated ketamine infusions did not impair neurocognitive function in patients with treatment-resistant depression. Further research is required to understand the potential mediating role of response and remission on improved cognitive function accompanying ketamine treatment as well as to examine longer-term safety outcomes. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01945047.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Phillips
- Correspondence: Jennifer L. Phillips, PhD, University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z7K4, Canada ()
| | - Amanda Van Geel
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Patricia Burhunduli
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dominique Vasudev
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa A Batten
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sandhaya Norris
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeanne Talbot
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Abigail Ortiz
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Olabisi Owoeye
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pierre Blier
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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50
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The Opioid System in Depression. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 140:104800. [PMID: 35914624 PMCID: PMC10166717 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Opioid receptors are widely distributed throughout the brain and play an essential role in modulating aspects of human mood, reward, and well-being. Accumulating evidence indicates the endogenous opioid system is dysregulated in depression and that pharmacological modulators of mu, delta, and kappa opioid receptors hold potential for the treatment of depression. Here we review animal and clinical data, highlighting evidence to support: dysregulation of the opioid system in depression, evidence for opioidergic modulation of behavioural processes and brain regions associated with depression, and evidence for opioidergic modulation in antidepressant responses. We evaluate clinical trials that have examined the safety and efficacy of opioidergic agents in depression and consider how the opioid system may be involved in the effects of other treatments, including ketamine, that are currently understood to exert antidepressant effects through non-opioidergic actions. Finally, we explore key neurochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying the potential therapeutic effects of opioid system engagement, that together provides a rationale for further investigation into this relevant target in the treatment of depression.
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