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Vaz GN, Turcato FC, Lima IA, Scarante FF, Araújo MR, Brigante TA, Rodrigues LC, Guimarães FS, Hallak JE, Crippa JA, Teixeira AL, de Oliveira AC, Campos AC. Genetic ablation of the isoform γ of PI3K decreases antidepressant efficacy of ketamine in male mice. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2024; 17:87-95. [PMID: 39026898 PMCID: PMC11255840 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2024.06.002] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
About one-third of major depressive disorder (MDD) patients demonstrate unresponsiveness to classic antidepressants, and even the clinical efficacy of fast-acting drugs such as ketamine varies significantly among patients with treatment-resistant depression. Nevertheless, the lack of suitable animal models that mimic a possible ketamine-resistant phenotype challenges the understanding of resistance to drug treatment. In this study, we showed that PI3Kγ knock-out (KO) mice do not respond to classical doses of ketamine and classical antidepressants. PI3Kγ KO mice were unresponsive to both the rapid and sustained antidepressant-like effects of a single dose of ketamine in the forced swimming test. Additionally, they were unresponsive to the antidepressant-like effects induced by the tricyclic antidepressant imipramine and the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine. However, acute pharmacological inhibition of PI3Kγ did not block the antidepressant-like effect of ketamine, showing that a chronic deficiency of the PI3Kγ-mediated pathway is necessary for the effects of classic doses of ketamine and antidepressants. Therefore, we propose that PI3Kγ participates in the antidepressant activity and is likely implicated in the neurobiology and phenotype observed in patients with MDD who demonstrate treatment resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela N. Vaz
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flávia C. Turcato
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA
| | - Isabel A.V. Lima
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Franciele F. Scarante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Melissa R. Araújo
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tamires A.V. Brigante
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Livia C.M. Rodrigues
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Health Science Center, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Francisco S. Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jaime E.C. Hallak
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jose A. Crippa
- Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antonio L. Teixeira
- Faculdade Santa Casa BH, Belo Horizonte, Brazil & Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | | | - Alline Cristina Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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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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Belge JB, Scantamburlo G, Constant E. Are ketamine and its enantiomers the answer to treatment-refractory depression? Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:827-830. [PMID: 38932620 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2373302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Baptiste Belge
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Psychoneuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
- 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
| | - Gabrielle Scantamburlo
- Department of Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Liège, Belgium
- Psychoneuroendocrinology Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Eric Constant
- Department of neuropsychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Spécialisé Notre-Dame des Anges, Liège, Belgium
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Meshkat S, Kwan ATH, Le GH, Wong S, Rhee TG, Ho R, Teopiz KM, Cao B, McIntyre RS. The role of KCNQ channel activators in management of major depressive disorder. J Affect Disord 2024; 359:364-372. [PMID: 38772507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.067] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Depression, a complex disorder with significant treatment challenges, necessitates innovative therapeutic approaches to address its multifaceted nature and enhance treatment outcomes. The modulation of KCNQ potassium (K+) channels, pivotal regulators of neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release, is a promising innovative therapeutic target in psychiatry. Widely expressed across various tissues, including the nervous and cardiovascular systems, KCNQ channels play a crucial role in modulating membrane potential and regulating neuronal activity. Recent preclinical evidence suggests that KCNQ channels, particularly KCNQ3, contribute to the regulation of neuronal excitability within the reward circuitry, offering a potential target for alleviating depressive symptoms, notably anhedonia. Studies using animal models demonstrate that interventions targeting KCNQ channels can restore dopaminergic firing balance and mitigate depressive symptoms. Human studies investigating the effects of KCNQ channel activators, such as ezogabine, have shown promising results in alleviating depressive symptoms and anhedonia. The aforementioned observations underscore the therapeutic potential of KCNQ channel modulation in depression management and highlight the need and justification for phase 2 and phase 3 dose-finding studies as well as studies prespecifying symptomatic targets in depression including anhedonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakila Meshkat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Angela T H Kwan
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Gia Han Le
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Sabrina Wong
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Taeho Greg Rhee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Public Health Sciences, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Roger Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Kayla M Teopiz
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Bing Cao
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Faculty of Psychology, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Brenna CTA, Goldstein BI, Zarate CA, Orser BA. Repurposing General Anesthetic Drugs to Treat Depression: A New Frontier for Anesthesiologists in Neuropsychiatric Care. Anesthesiology 2024; 141:222-237. [PMID: 38856663 DOI: 10.1097/aln.0000000000005037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
During the last 100 years, the role of anesthesiologists in psychiatry has focused primarily on facilitating electroconvulsive therapy and mitigating postoperative delirium and other perioperative neurocognitive disorders. The discovery of the rapid and sustained antidepressant properties of ketamine, and early results suggesting that other general anesthetic drugs (including nitrous oxide, propofol, and isoflurane) have antidepressant properties, has positioned anesthesiologists at a new frontier in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Moreover, shared interest in understanding the biologic underpinnings of anesthetic drugs as psychotropic agents is eroding traditional academic boundaries between anesthesiology and psychiatry. This article presents a brief overview of anesthetic drugs as novel antidepressants and identifies promising future candidates for the treatment of depression. The authors issue a call to action and outline strategies to foster collaborations between anesthesiologists and psychiatrists as they work toward the common goals of repurposing anesthetic drugs as antidepressants and addressing mood disorders in surgical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor T A Brenna
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Perioperative Brain Health Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Benjamin I Goldstein
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Beverley A Orser
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Perioperative Brain Health Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
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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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Pastuszak M, Cubała WJ, Kwaśny A. Treatment-emergent symptoms during short-term ketamine administration in treatment-resistant bipolar depression: A retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study. Asian J Psychiatr 2024; 99:104159. [PMID: 39018703 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2024.104159] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Symptoms that emerge during pharmacological treatment of bipolar depression are frequently observed, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive treatment monitoring. This observational study sought to observe the correlation of eight intravenous ketamine infusions with treatment-emergent depressive symptoms in treatment-resistant bipolar depression patients who maintained their baseline psychotropic and chronic somatic treatments. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report 30 (IDS-SR30). Treatment-emergent symptoms TES were defined as symptoms absent at baseline but present at the conclusion of the study. The most common TES included decreased appetite, increased weight, hypersomnia, and diurnal mood variation. Conversely, feelings of sadness, altered perceptions of the future, decreased interest in sex, and physical discomfort were absent in all patients. Notably, 13.6 % of patients reported thoughts of death or suicide. Larger-scale studies, integrating clinician-rated and patient-reported outcome measures, are essential to deepen our understanding of treatment-emergent symptoms. Establishing regulatory or professional definitions for treatment-emergent symptoms is warranted to improve the robustness of future research endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Pastuszak
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk 80-214, Poland
| | - Wiesław Jerzy Cubała
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk 80-214, Poland
| | - Aleksander Kwaśny
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk 80-214, Poland.
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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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Roberts E, Sanderson E, Guerrini I. The Pharmacological Management of Ketamine Use Disorder: A Systematic Review. J Addict Med 2024:01271255-990000000-00339. [PMID: 38922637 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There has been limited evidence synthesis examining treatment of ketamine use disorder. We aimed to conduct a systematic review to assess the efficacy and tolerability of pharmacological interventions in the management of ketamine use disorder. METHODS We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from database inception to November 14, 2023, for studies of any design that reported on any pharmacological intervention in the management of ketamine use disorder. We extracted any reported measure of efficacy or tolerability and assessed outcome quality using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) framework. We planned to combine outcomes using random-effects meta-analysis, where this was not possible results were reported narratively. RESULTS Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria reporting on 368 participants. These comprised 1 controlled trial, 2 retrospective case series, and 9 case reports. Two studies reported on ketamine intoxication, 6 on withdrawal, and 4 on craving/relapse prevention. All studies reported only descriptive outcomes, and all evidence was of very low quality. Benzodiazepine regimens and haloperidol were reported to have potential utility in intoxication and withdrawal, whereas naltrexone, lamotrigine, and a combination of paliperidone palmitate and bupropion were reported to have potential utility in craving/relapse prevention. CONCLUSIONS There is a paucity of research into pharmacological management of ketamine use disorder. The limited very low-quality evidence suggests benzodiazepine regimens may be most salient for future exploration in management of ketamine intoxication and withdrawal, whereas case reports suggest naltrexone, lamotrigine, and paliperidone palmitate plus bupropion may potentially merit further investigation with regard to craving/relapse prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmert Roberts
- From the National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London, United Kingdom and South London, and the Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (ER); and South London and the Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (ES, IG)
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Pedraz-Petrozzi B, Spangemacher M, Deicher A, Drews L, Defert J, Silva-Colmenero AY, Wein P, Riedinger E, Gründer G, Gilles M, Sartorius A, Reinwald JR. Baseline monocyte count predicts symptom improvement during intravenous ketamine therapy in treatment-resistant depression: a single-arm open-label observational study. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1415505. [PMID: 39045550 PMCID: PMC11265220 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1415505] [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: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroinflammatory processes in depression are associated with treatment resistance to conventional antidepressants. Ketamine is an effective new therapeutic option for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Its well-established immunomodulatory properties are hypothesized to mediate its antidepressant effect. In this context, higher levels of inflammation may predict a better treatment response. However, conclusive evidence for this hypothesis is lacking. We thus investigated whether standard peripheral inflammatory cell markers and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels could predict symptom improvement during intravenous ketamine therapy in TRD patients. Methods 27 participants with TRD were treated with six weight-adjusted intravenous ketamine infusions (0.5 mg/kg bodyweight) over three weeks. Baseline assessments included CRP, absolute monocyte count (AMC), and absolute neutrophil count (ANC). Depression severity was measured using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at baseline (D1), after the first (D3) and before the last ketamine infusion (D18). Raters were blinded for the baseline laboratory assessments. Results 13 participants responded to ketamine treatment, and 8 participants partially responded. Baseline AMC showed a strong negative correlation with MADRS change at D3 (r=-0.57, p=0.002) and at D18 (r =-0.48, p=0.010), indicating that a high baseline AMC was associated with greater symptom improvement. A generalized linear model confirmed the association of baseline AMC with symptom improvement during ketamine treatment when additionally accounting for age, sex, and body mass index. Specifically, baseline AMC demonstrated predictive value to discriminate responders and partial responders from non-responders, but lacked discriminative ability between partial responders and responders. Baseline ANC correlated with the MADRS changes at D3 (r=-0.39, p=0.046), while CRP values did not correlate at all. Conclusions Our prospective single-arm open-label observational study demonstrated that baseline AMC reliably predicted symptom improvement during intravenous ketamine treatment in TRD patients. AMC could therefore serve as a simple and easily accessible marker for symptom improvement during ketamine therapy in daily clinical practice. Future studies with larger sample sizes and a more detailed longitudinal assessment of AMC subtypes are needed to better understand the specific relationship between monocytes and the neuromodulatory effects of ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Pedraz-Petrozzi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Research Group Stress-Related Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- German Centre for Mental Health (Deutsches Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit, DZPG), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim/Ulm, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Moritz Spangemacher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- German Centre for Mental Health (Deutsches Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit, DZPG), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim/Ulm, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Molecular Neuroimaging, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anton Deicher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Lena Drews
- Department of Molecular Neuroimaging, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julie Defert
- Department of Molecular Neuroimaging, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ana Yaiza Silva-Colmenero
- Department of Molecular Neuroimaging, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Paul Wein
- Research Group Translational Imaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Elena Riedinger
- Research Group Translational Imaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Gerhard Gründer
- German Centre for Mental Health (Deutsches Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit, DZPG), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim/Ulm, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Molecular Neuroimaging, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Maria Gilles
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Research Group Stress-Related Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- German Centre for Mental Health (Deutsches Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit, DZPG), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim/Ulm, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alexander Sartorius
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- German Centre for Mental Health (Deutsches Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit, DZPG), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim/Ulm, Mannheim, Germany
- Research Group Translational Imaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Jonathan R. Reinwald
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- German Centre for Mental Health (Deutsches Zentrum für Psychische Gesundheit, DZPG), Partner Site Heidelberg/Mannheim/Ulm, Mannheim, Germany
- Research Group Translational Imaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim - University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
- Research Group Systems Neuroscience and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
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11
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Ahuja J, Leontieva L. Ketamine Therapy in Complex Cases: A Cautionary Tale of Exacerbated Personality Traits and the Crucial Role of Comprehensive Follow-Up and Psychosocial Interventions. Case Rep Psychiatry 2024; 2024:2143372. [PMID: 38939043 PMCID: PMC11208781 DOI: 10.1155/2024/2143372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
This case report examines the unexpected increase in suicidal ideation following ketamine infusion therapy in a 75-year-old female with a history of treatment-resistant depression. Despite ketamine's established efficacy in treating depression and acute suicidality, this patient's condition deteriorated posttreatment. The report delves into the patient's complex background, including psychosocial stressors, genetic predisposition to depression, and a history of personality traits that may have influenced her response to ketamine. This case underscores the importance of cautious administration of ketamine, especially in patients with personality disorders, and calls for deeper understanding and individualized treatment plans in mental health care. It is a reminder of the complexities involved in treating mental health conditions and the varying effects of treatments like ketamine on different individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jai Ahuja
- Department of PsychiatrySUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Luba Leontieva
- Department of PsychiatrySUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
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12
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Shen Z, Gao D, Lv X, Wang H, Yue W. A meta-analysis of the effects of ketamine on suicidal ideation in depression patients. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:248. [PMID: 38858391 PMCID: PMC11164699 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02973-1] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The treatment of suicidal ideation in patients with depression has been a major problem faced by psychiatric and emergency departments, and reasonable drug selection is particularly important. Ketamine has been shown to reduce suicidal ideation rapidly, but the strength of the effect is unclear and there is little evidence-based medical evidence to support this. We systematically searched all articles published on PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI and EMBASE. Stata 15 and R 4.1.3 were used for meta-analysis, and odds ratios were calculated in fixed effects or random effects models based on the heterogeneity test results. Our search resulted in 505 articles; we analyzed 14 studies, which included 1,380 participants. The 14 studies included 10 randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies and 4 single-arm studies. Our study suggests that, ketamine has a significant therapeutic effect on suicidal ideation throughout the treatment cycle. We performed network meta-analyses(NMA) and pairwise meta-analyses to compare the efficacy of ketamine in the reduction of suicidal ideation. There was a significant reduction in suicidal ideation within the first day after treatment (NMA ketamine day1 RR = 10.02, 95%CI = 4.24 to 23.68). In repeated treatment, the degree of recovery of suicidal ideation after the last dose was significantly greater than that after the first dose (RR = 0.56, 95%CI = 0.51 to 0.62). Recovery of suicidal ideation was also significantly better in the treatment end point than in the placebo group at the same time point (NMA ketamine day26 RR = 4.29, 95%CI = 1.41 to 13.08). This is the first network meta-analysis to demonstrate the role of ketamine in the alleviation of suicidal ideation. Our network meta-analysis also compared the effects of different drugs at different time points, which was not done in previous studies. This is of great reference significance for future drug research andrational drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- ZuoYao Shen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College Henan, Henan, China
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
- Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2018RU006), Beijing, China
| | - DaiQuan Gao
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Lv
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College Henan, Henan, China
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China
- Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2018RU006), Beijing, China
| | - HongXing Wang
- Department of Neurology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - WeiHua Yue
- Peking University Sixth Hospital, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Mental Health (Peking University), National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders (Peking University Sixth Hospital), Beijing, China.
- Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Mood Cognitive Disorder, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2018RU006), Beijing, China.
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Di Vincenzo M, Martiadis V, Della Rocca B, Arsenio E, D’Arpa A, Volpicelli A, Luciano M, Sampogna G, Fiorillo A. Facts and myths about use of esketamine for treatment-resistant depression: a narrative clinical review. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1394787. [PMID: 38812489 PMCID: PMC11133709 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1394787] [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: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction and aims Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) occurs when at least two different antidepressants, taken at the right dosage, for adequate period of time and with continuity, fail to give positive clinical effects. Esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine, was recently approved for TRD treatment from U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medicine Agency. Despite proved clinical efficacy, many misconceptions by clinicians and patients accompany this medication. We aimed to review the most common "false myths" regarding TRD and esketemine, counterarguing with evidence-based facts. Methods The keywords "esketamine", "treatment resistance depression", "depression", "myth", "mythology", "pharmacological treatment", and "misunderstanding" were entered in the main databases and combined through Boolean operators. Results Misconceptions regarding the TRD prevalence, clinical features and predictors have been found. With respect of esketamine, criteria to start treatment, dissociative symptoms, potential addiction and aspects of administration and monitoring, were found to be affected by false beliefs by clinicians and patients. Discussion and conclusion TRD represents a challenging condition, requiring precise diagnosis in order to achieve patient's full recovery. Esketamine has been proved as an effective medication to treat TRD, although it requires precautions. Evidence can inform clinical practice, in order to offer this innovative treatment to all patients with TRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Di Vincenzo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Vassilis Martiadis
- Department of Mental Health, Community Mental Health Center DS 25, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Napoli 1 Centro, Naples, Italy
| | - Bianca Della Rocca
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Eleonora Arsenio
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea D’Arpa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Volpicelli
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Luciano
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
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14
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Ng QX, Lim YL, Ong C, New S, Fam J, Liew TM. Hype or hope? Ketamine for the treatment of depression: results from the application of deep learning to Twitter posts from 2010 to 2023. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1369727. [PMID: 38800065 PMCID: PMC11117142 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1369727] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate societal perceptions of ketamine's use in depression therapy by analysing Twitter posts from January 1, 2010 to April 1, 2023. Methods Using Twitter as the social media platform of choice, and employing search terms based on (depression OR depressed OR depressive) AND (ketamine OR esketamine OR Spravato), we collected English-language tweets from January 1, 2010, to April 1, 2023. Using unsupervised machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) techniques, including Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) and BERTopic, the study identified prevalent topics surrounding public chatter around the use of ketamine in depression treatment. Manual thematic analyses further refined these topics into themes. Results Out of an initial dataset of 99,405 tweets, after removing duplicate tweets, re-tweets and tweets posted by organizations over Twitter, 18,899 unique tweets from presumably individual users were analysed. Analysis of temporal trends revealed a shift in public attitudes, particularly after the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s 2019 approval of ketamine for depression. Three major themes emerged: a changing regulatory landscape, cautious optimism, and personal experiences with the drug. There was an initial spike in discussions post-FDA approval in 2019. Thereafter, cautious optimism (Theme 2) decreased among the general public, with more personal accounts (Theme 3) highlighting the potential benefits for some treatment-resistant patients. Limitations of the study include Twitter's inherent biases towards younger, English-speaking demographics. Conclusion In summary, the public's multifaceted perception leans towards a hopeful stance on ketamine's therapeutic potential for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Xiang Ng
- Health Services Research Unit, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu Liang Lim
- Department of General Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Clarence Ong
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Silas New
- Department of Pharmacy, Changi General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Johnson Fam
- Department of Psychiatry, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tau Ming Liew
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Psychiatry, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- SingHealth Duke-NUS Medicine Academic Clinical Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
- Health Services and Systems Research, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
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15
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Deka A, Joseph E, Sharma N, Berhanu T, Kaplan J. Recurrent Serotonin Syndrome After Ketamine-assisted Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. J Psychiatr Pract 2024; 30:234-241. [PMID: 38819248 DOI: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000787] [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] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) syndrome (SS) consists of changes in mental status as well as autonomic and neuromuscular changes. Though not well understood, serotonergic pathways have been implicated in the mechanism of action of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Ketamine has been used as an induction agent in ECT and as therapy for treatment-resistant depression. Utilizing a case report and literature review, we explored the underlying serotonergic mechanisms of ECT and ketamine by which a syndrome of serotonin toxicity may be precipitated. We describe the case of a 72-year-old woman who developed recurrent SS on 2 occasions in similar circumstances involving the administration of ketamine for ECT. In our literature review, we found 5 cases in which SS was associated with ECT and 1 case linking ketamine to SS. There is emerging evidence that the mechanism of ECT involves 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, the same receptors that are involved in SS. ECT can transiently increase the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, leading to increased levels of antidepressants in the brain. ECT can, therefore, enhance 5-HT transmission and the likelihood of SS in the presence of serotonergic agents. The effect of ketamine on 5-HT transmission is mediated by the glutamate α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor. Ketamine increases α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, which leads to downstream 5-HT release through glutamate. Through this mechanism, ketamine can increase 5-HT transmission, leading to SS. To our knowledge, this is the only case report of recurrent SS with concurrent use of ECT and ketamine. As ketamine is frequently used in ECT and many patients undergoing ECT are on serotonergic medications, it is important to recognize ketamine as a potential risk factor for SS. There is no evidence for added efficacy when combining ECT and ketamine. Thus, one should proceed with caution when combining these treatments. The burgeoning use of ketamine in ambulatory settings makes it necessary to elucidate the risks, which we discuss further. More research is needed into the mechanisms of ketamine and ECT, specifically how the combination of these treatments influence 5-HT levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniruddha Deka
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
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16
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McInnes LA, Marton TF, Qian JJ. Embracing pragmatism for ketamine insurance coverage: Leveraging real-world evidence. J Affect Disord 2024; 352:199-200. [PMID: 38350540 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.02.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tobias F Marton
- Mindful Health Solutions, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Jimmy J Qian
- Osmind Inc., San Francisco, CA, United States of America
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17
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Gutierrez G, Kang MJY, Vazquez G. IV low dose ketamine infusions for treatment resistant depression: Results from a five-year study at a free public clinic in an academic hospital. Psychiatry Res 2024; 335:115865. [PMID: 38518518 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115865] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Individuals with major depressive disorder and treatment resistant depression (MDD-TRD) have limited and sometimes poorly tolerated therapeutic options. Low dose ketamine has presented promising and potent antidepressant effects in this population. To support the existent literature, we conducted a longitudinal study examining five years of real-world clinical data on the use of IV low-dose ketamine alongside standard care for MDD-TRD outpatients. For this study we collected demographic information, clinical scale scores, side effects and dropout data. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, effect size using Cohen's D analysis, and multivariate ANOVA (MANOVA) to determine the impact of sociodemographic variables. 71 outpatients (50.28 years old, SD: 14.26; female 74.65%) were included in the analysis. The results showed a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and suicide ideation (SI) by treatment endpoint. 54.93% of patients responded to the treatment, 78.26% experienced transient and mild side effects, and 11.27% of dropped out of the treatment. Multivariate analysis showed that the demographic variables did not impact treatment effect or tolerability. The results of this study suggest that IV low dose ketamine treatment is effective, fast-acting, and well tolerated for the management of depressive symptoms and SI in patients with MDD-TRD in naturalistic clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilmar Gutierrez
- Queen's University, Department of Psychiatry, 752 King Street West, Kingston, Ontario K7L7X3, Canada; Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Melody J Y Kang
- Center for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Imaging Genetics Center, Mark and Mary Stevens Neuroimaging & Informatics Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, United States
| | - Gustavo Vazquez
- Queen's University, Department of Psychiatry, 752 King Street West, Kingston, Ontario K7L7X3, Canada; Providence Care Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Center for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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18
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Bayrhammer-Savel M, Ortner M, Van Hout MC, Komorowski A. Psychiatric and legal considerations for ketamine treatment within prison settings. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1316108. [PMID: 38699451 PMCID: PMC11063772 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1316108] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The fundamental right to equivalence of health care in prison settings encompasses the provision of medication to address mental health conditions. Considering the increased risk for self-harm among individuals dealing with depression, the limited effectiveness of conservative antidepressants is a major challenge in psychiatry. The high prevalence of suicidal tendencies within prison populations underscores the imperative for state-of-the-art pharmacological treatment to uphold adequate health care standards. Notably, the denial of access to effective medication could be deemed a violation of human rights of people living in prison according to international treaties, domestic law, and United Nations normative standards of detention. This article presents the authors' perspective on the accessibility of ketamine treatment in prison settings, discussing psychiatric and legal considerations as well as current challenges in this context. Implementing novel psychopharmacological interventions may alleviate the distress experienced by individuals struggling with depressive symptoms and suicidality. At the same time, unprecedented treatment alternatives bring along potential issues, including limited understanding of long-term effects and the risk of abuse. Given the scarce data-availability, a pressing need exists for further research on the benefits and risks of ketamine treatment within prison populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Ortner
- Central Public Prosecutor’s Office for Combating Economic Crimes and Corruption, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Arkadiusz Komorowski
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Vestring S, Galuba V, Kern E, Voita S, Berens F, Nasiri D, Domschke K, Normann C. Ketamine in multiple treatment-resistant depressed inpatients: A naturalistic cohort study. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:895-899. [PMID: 38266928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.165] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ketamine has emerged as an effective treatment option for patients with treatment-resistant depression. However, there is limited evidence of the benefits of ketamine in inpatients with multiple treatment resistance (MTR), who far exceed the formal criteria for treatment resistance and suffer from extensive psychiatric comorbidities. OBJECTIVE The aim of this naturalistic study was to provide preliminary evidence for the use of ketamine in the treatment of MTR depression in a naturalistic inpatient setting. METHODS Seventy-seven patients (mean age 45.1 ± 13.8 years) were treated with intravenous or intranasal ketamine (1068 administrations) twice weekly for five weeks, followed by maintenance therapy if clinically indicated. Treatment effects were assessed with the BDI, and side effects were assessed by clinicians. We analyzed dose- and route of application-related changes in depression severity, response and remission rates as well as effects on suicidality and frequency of adverse events. RESULTS Depression severity and suicidality decreased in the acute treatment phase and these changes persisted during the maintenance therapy phase. A total of 28.9 % of the patients met the criteria for response, and 15 % met the criteria for remission. The initial treatment response was highly predictive of the outcome at the end of the acute treatment phase. None of the reported side effects required medical intervention. High-dose intravenous ketamine (0.75-1 mg/kg) resulted in the most pronounced clinical effects. LIMITATIONS This observational, retrospective, and naturalistic study may be subject to bias and did not allow control of external variables. CONCLUSIONS We outlined a clinically feasible, high-dose ketamine treatment regimen for hospitalized patients with MTR depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Vestring
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Berta-Ottenstein-Programme for Clinician Scientists, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Viktoria Galuba
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elisa Kern
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Voita
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Berens
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Danial Nasiri
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Domschke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Center for Neuromodulation, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Claus Normann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; Center for Neuromodulation, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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20
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Zanardi R, Carminati M, Attanasio F, Fazio V, Maccario M, Colombo C. How different definition criteria may predict clinical outcome in treatment resistant depression: Results from a prospective real-world study. Psychiatry Res 2024; 334:115818. [PMID: 38422869 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115818] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Management of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a major public health challenge, also due to the lack of a consensus around TRD definition. We investigated the impact of different definitions of TRD on identifying patients with distinct features in terms of baseline characteristics, treatment strategies, and clinical outcome. We conducted a prospective naturalistic study on 538 depressed inpatients. Patients were screened for treatment resistance by two TRD definitions: looser criteria (lTRD) and stricter criteria (sTRD). We compared baseline characteristics, treatment and clinical outcome between the TRD groups and their non-TRD counterparts. 52.97 % of patients were identified as lTRD, only 28.81 % met the criteria for sTRD. sTRD patients showed lower rates of remission and slower symptom reduction compared to non-TRD patients and received more challenging treatments. Surprisingly, patients identified as sTRD also exhibited lower rates of psychiatric comorbidities, including personality disorders, substance abuse, or alcohol misuse. Stricter TRD criteria identify patients with worse clinical outcomes. Looser criteria may lead to overdiagnosis and over treatment. Clinical features known to be possible risk factors for TRD, as psychiatric comorbidities, showed to be more suggestive of a "difficult to manage" depression rather than a proper TRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Zanardi
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Mood Disorder Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
| | - Matteo Carminati
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Attanasio
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Fazio
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Melania Maccario
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Colombo
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Mood Disorder Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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Matsingos A, Wilhelm M, Noor L, Yildiz C, Rief W, Hofmann SG, Falkenberg I, Kircher T. Hype or hope? High placebo response in major depression treatment with ketamine and esketamine: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1346697. [PMID: 38525254 PMCID: PMC10957753 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1346697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ketamine and esketamine offer a novel approach in the pharmacological treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the placebo response in double-blind, randomized controlled studies (RCTs) on patients with MDD receiving ketamine or esketamine. Methods For this systematic review and meta-analysis Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PsycInfo and Embase databases were systematically searched for citations published up to March 17, 2023. A total number of 5017 abstracts was identified. Quality of the included trials was assessed with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The meta-analysis was performed using a restricted maximum likelihood model. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42022377591. Results A total number of 14 studies and 1100 participants (593 in the medication group and 507 in the placebo group) meeting the inclusion criteria were selected. We estimated the pooled effect sizes of the overall placebo (d pl = -1.85 [CI 95%: -2.9 to -0.79] and overall treatment (dtr = -2.57; [CI 95% -3.36 to -1.78]) response. The overall placebo response accounts for up to 72% of the overall treatment response. Furthermore, we performed subgroup analysis of 8 studies for the for the 7 days post-intervention timepoint. Seven days post-intervention the placebo response (d pl 7d = -1.98 [CI 95%: -3.26 to -0.69]) accounts for 66% of the treatment response (d tr 7d = - 3.01 [CI 95%, -4.28 to -1.74]). Conclusion Ketamine and esketamine show large antidepressant effects. However, our findings suggest that the placebo response plays a significant role in the antidepressant response and should be used for the benefit of the patients in clinical practice. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022377591.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Matsingos
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Marcel Wilhelm
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Laila Noor
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Cüneyt Yildiz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Winfried Rief
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Stefan G. Hofmann
- Translational Clinical Psychology, Department of Psychology, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Irina Falkenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Tilo Kircher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Yan R, Marshall T, Khullar A, Nagle T, Knowles J, Malkin M, Chubbs B, Swainson J. Patient-reported outcomes on sleep quality and circadian rhythm during treatment with intravenous ketamine for treatment-resistant depression. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2024; 14:20451253241231264. [PMID: 38440104 PMCID: PMC10910882 DOI: 10.1177/20451253241231264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Intravenous (IV) ketamine is a rapid acting antidepressant used primarily for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). It has been suggested that IV ketamine's rapid antidepressant effects may be partially mediated via improved sleep and changes to the circadian rhythm. Objectives This study explores IV ketamine's association with changes in patient-reported sleep quality and circadian rhythm in an adult population with TRD. Methods Adult patients (18-64 years) with TRD scheduled for IV ketamine treatment were recruited to complete patient rated outcomes measures on sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and circadian rhythm using the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ). Over a 4-week course of eight ketamine infusions, reports were obtained at baseline (T0), prior to second treatment (T1), prior to fifth treatment (T2), and 1 week after eighth treatment (T3). Results Forty participants with TRD (mean age = 42.8, 45% male) were enrolled. Twenty-nine (72.5%) had complete follow-up data. Paired t tests revealed statistically significant improvements at the end of treatment in sleep quality (PSQI) (p = 0.003) and depressive symptoms (Clinically Useful Depression Outcome Scale-Depression, p < 0.001) while circadian rhythm (MEQ) shifted earlier (p = 0.007). The PSQI subscale components of sleep duration (p = 0.008) and daytime dysfunction (p = 0.001) also improved. In an exploratory post hoc analysis, ketamine's impact on sleep quality was more prominent in patients with mixed features, while its chronobiotic effect was prominent in those without mixed features. Conclusion IV ketamine may improve sleep quality and advance circadian rhythm in individuals with TRD. Effects may differ in individuals with mixed features of depression as compared to those without. Since this was a small uncontrolled study, future research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Yan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Atul Khullar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Travis Nagle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jake Knowles
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mai Malkin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Brittany Chubbs
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jennifer Swainson
- Cabrini Center, 3rd Floor, 16811-88 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, Canada T5R 5YR
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Canada
- Misericordia Community Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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23
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Niciu MJ, Meisner RC, Carr BR, Farooqui AA, Feifel D, Kaplin A, Kendrick EJ, Kim PM, Schneck CD, Vande Voort JL, Parikh SV. National Network of Depression Centers position statement: Insurance coverage for intravenous ketamine in treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. J Affect Disord 2024; 346:221-222. [PMID: 37940059 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Niciu
- University of Iowa Health Care, Department of Psychiatry/Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Robert C Meisner
- McLean Hospital, Psychiatric Neurotherapeutics Program, 115 Mill St., Belmont, MA 02478, USA; Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Brent R Carr
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Ali A Farooqui
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - David Feifel
- Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; University of California San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Adam Kaplin
- Mira Pharmaceuticals, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - E Jeremy Kendrick
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University Neuropsychiatric Institute, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA
| | - Paul M Kim
- The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Christopher D Schneck
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Department of Psychiatry, Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Depression Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | | | - Sagar V Parikh
- University of Michigan School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Depression Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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24
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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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25
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Johnston JN, Kadriu B, Kraus C, Henter ID, Zarate CA. Ketamine in neuropsychiatric disorders: an update. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:23-40. [PMID: 37340091 PMCID: PMC10700638 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01632-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of ketamine as a rapid-acting antidepressant led to a new era in the development of neuropsychiatric therapeutics, one characterized by an antidepressant response that occurred within hours or days rather than weeks or months. Considerable clinical research supports the use of-or further research with-subanesthetic-dose ketamine and its (S)-enantiomer esketamine in multiple neuropsychiatric disorders including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety spectrum disorders, substance use disorders, and eating disorders, as well as for the management of chronic pain. In addition, ketamine often effectively targets symptom domains associated with multiple disorders, such as anxiety, anhedonia, and suicidal ideation. This manuscript: 1) reviews the literature on the pharmacology and hypothesized mechanisms of subanesthetic-dose ketamine in clinical research; 2) describes similarities and differences in the mechanism of action and antidepressant efficacy between racemic ketamine, its (S) and (R) enantiomers, and its hydroxynorketamine (HNK) metabolite; 3) discusses the day-to-day use of ketamine in the clinical setting; 4) provides an overview of ketamine use in other psychiatric disorders and depression-related comorbidities (e.g., suicidal ideation); and 5) provides insights into the mechanisms of ketamine and therapeutic response gleaned from the study of other novel therapeutics and neuroimaging modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenessa N Johnston
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Bashkim Kadriu
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Translational and Experimental Medicine, Neuroscience at Jazz Pharmaceuticals, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Christoph Kraus
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ioline D Henter
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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26
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Yonezawa K, Uchida H, Yatomi T, Ohtani Y, Nomoto-Takahashi K, Nakajima S, Mimura M, Tani H. Factors Associated with Antidepressant Effects of Ketamine: A Reanalysis of Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of Intravenous Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2024; 57:35-40. [PMID: 37846462 DOI: 10.1055/a-2179-8884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Predictors of treatment response to intravenous ketamine remain unclear in patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD); therefore, this study aimed to clarify these predictors using the US National Institutes of Health database of clinical trials. METHODS Data from a placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized controlled trial were used to assess the efficacy of intravenous ketamine in adult patients with TRD (NCT01920555). For the analysis, data were used from the participants who had received therapeutic doses of intravenous ketamine (i. e., 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg). Logistic and multivariable regression analyses were conducted to explore the demographic and clinical factors associated with response to treatment or changes in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale 6 items (HAM-D-6) total score. RESULTS This study included 31 patients with TRD (13 women; mean±standard deviation age, 48.4±10.9 years). Logistic regression analysis showed that the age of onset was positively correlated with treatment response after three days of ketamine administration (β=0.08, p=0.037); however, no association was observed between treatment response and age, sex, baseline HAM-D-6 total score, or dissociative score assessed with the Clinician-Administered Dissociative States Scale 40 min after ketamine infusion. Multiple regression analysis showed that no factors were correlated significantly with the percentage change in the HAM-D-6 total score three days after ketamine administration. DISCUSSION Later disease onset correlates with a better treatment response three days after ketamine infusion in patients with TRD. Glutamatergic signal transmission may be impaired in patients with an earlier onset of depression, resulting in decreased neuroplasticity, which diminishes ketamine response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Yonezawa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Uchida
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taisuke Yatomi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yohei Ohtani
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Shinichiro Nakajima
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaru Mimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideaki Tani
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Heifets BD, Olson DE. Therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelics and entactogens. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:104-118. [PMID: 37488282 PMCID: PMC10700553 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01666-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Recent clinical and preclinical evidence suggests that psychedelics and entactogens may produce both rapid and sustained therapeutic effects across several indications. Currently, there is a disconnect between how these compounds are used in the clinic and how they are studied in preclinical species, which has led to a gap in our mechanistic understanding of how these compounds might positively impact mental health. Human studies have emphasized extra-pharmacological factors that could modulate psychedelic-induced therapeutic responses including set, setting, and integration-factors that are poorly modelled in current animal experiments. In contrast, animal studies have focused on changes in neuronal activation and structural plasticity-outcomes that are challenging to measure in humans. Here, we describe several hypotheses that might explain how psychedelics rescue neuropsychiatric disease symptoms, and we propose ways to bridge the gap between human and rodent studies. Given the diverse pharmacological profiles of psychedelics and entactogens, we suggest that their rapid and sustained therapeutic mechanisms of action might best be described by the collection of circuits that they modulate rather than their actions at any single molecular target. Thus, approaches focusing on selective circuit modulation of behavioral phenotypes might prove more fruitful than target-based methods for identifying novel compounds with rapid and sustained therapeutic effects similar to psychedelics and entactogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris D Heifets
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - David E Olson
- Institute for Psychedelics and Neurotherapeutics, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
- Center for Neuroscience, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, 95618, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
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28
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Dutton M, Boyes A, Can AT, Mohamed AZ, Hajishafiee M, Shan ZY, Lagopoulos J, Hermens DF. Hippocampal subfield volumes predict treatment response to oral ketamine in people with suicidality. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 169:192-200. [PMID: 38042058 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.11.040] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Ongoing stress results in hippocampal neuro-structural alterations which produce pathological consequences, including depression and suicidality. Ketamine may ameliorate stress related illnesses, including suicidality, via neuroplasticity processes. This novel study sought to determine whether oral ketamine treatment specifically affects hippocampal (whole and subfield) volumes in patients with chronic suicidality and MDD. It was hypothesised that oral ketamine treatment would differentially alter hippocampal volumes in trial participants categorised as ketamine responders, versus those who were non-responders. Twenty-eight participants received 6 single, weekly doses of oral ketamine (0.5-3 mg/kg) and underwent MRI scans at pre-ketamine (week 0), post-ketamine (week 6), and follow up (week 10). Hippocampal subfield volumes were extracted using the longitudinal pipeline in FreeSurfer. Participants were grouped according to ketamine response status and then compared in terms of grey matter volume (GMV) changes, among 10 hippocampal regions, over 6 and 10 weeks. Mixed ANOVAs were used to analyse interactions between time and group. Post treatment analysis revealed a significant main effect of group for three left hippocampal GMVs as well in the left and right whole hippocampus. Ketamine acute responders (Week 6) showed increased GMVs in both left and right whole hippocampus and in three subfields compared to acute non-responders, across all three timepoints, suggesting that pre-treatment increased hippocampal GMVs (particularly left hemisphere) may be predictive biomarkers of acute treatment response. Future studies should further investigate the potential of hippocampal volumes as a biomarker of ketamine treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Dutton
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Amanda Boyes
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Adem T Can
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Abdalla Z Mohamed
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Maryam Hajishafiee
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Zack Y Shan
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jim Lagopoulos
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Daniel F Hermens
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
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29
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Krystal JH, Kaye AP, Jefferson S, Girgenti MJ, Wilkinson ST, Sanacora G, Esterlis I. Ketamine and the neurobiology of depression: Toward next-generation rapid-acting antidepressant treatments. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2305772120. [PMID: 38011560 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2305772120] [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] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine has emerged as a transformative and mechanistically novel pharmacotherapy for depression. Its rapid onset of action, efficacy for treatment-resistant symptoms, and protection against relapse distinguish it from prior antidepressants. Its discovery emerged from a reconceptualization of the neurobiology of depression and, in turn, insights from the elaboration of its mechanisms of action inform studies of the pathophysiology of depression and related disorders. It has been 25 y since we first presented our ketamine findings in depression. Thus, it is timely for this review to consider what we have learned from studies of ketamine and to suggest future directions for the optimization of rapid-acting antidepressant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- John H Krystal
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06510
- Clinical Neuroscience Division, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516
| | - Alfred P Kaye
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Clinical Neuroscience Division, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516
| | - Sarah Jefferson
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Clinical Neuroscience Division, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516
| | - Matthew J Girgenti
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Clinical Neuroscience Division, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516
| | - Samuel T Wilkinson
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Gerard Sanacora
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Health Services, Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT 06510
| | - Irina Esterlis
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511
- Clinical Neuroscience Division, National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT 06516
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30
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Fossati P. [Ketamine in antidepressant treatment: a revolution?]. Biol Aujourdhui 2023; 217:151-154. [PMID: 38018942 DOI: 10.1051/jbio/2023023] [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: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Thirty percent of depressed patients are treatment resistant (TRD) suggesting the need of new therapeutic strategy. Recently, it has been shown that ketamine, an anesthetic agent with dissociative effects, has potent and rapid antidepressant properties. Ketamine is a ionotropic glutamatergic NMDA antagonist that inhibits gabaergic neurons. Its antidepressant effect peaks at 24 h post-treatment. Several meta-analyses of placebo randomized clinical trials emphasized its efficacy. More recently, a meta-analysis showed its efficiency in real-world population of TRD patients. Although there is no clear biological or clinical predictors of response or remission to ketamine, patients with high level of resistance were found to remit less often. Restoring both the optimism bias and the asymmetry in belief updating mediates the antidepressant ketamine's effect. Consistent with predictive bayesian model and terror management theory, this suggests that dissociation induced by ketamine may contribute to its clinical antidepressant action. Although increasing access to ketamine and esketamine is welcome, legitimate concerns have been raised with respect to long-term safety and abuse risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Fossati
- Équipe « Contrôle-Interoception-Attention », Institut du Cerveau (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, AP-HP, Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, DMU Neurosciences, Paris, France - Service de Psychiatrie Adultes, GH de la Pitié Salpêtrière, 47-83 Bd de l'Hôpital, 75013 Paris, France
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Amerio A, Baccino C, Breda GS, Cortesi D, Spiezio V, Magnani L, De Berardis D, Conio B, Costanza A, De Paola G, Rocca G, Arduino G, Aguglia A, Amore M, Serafini G. Effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation on cocaine addiction: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Psychiatry Res 2023; 329:115491. [PMID: 37783092 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115491] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While pharmacological strategies appear to be ineffective in treating long-term addiction, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is emerging as a promising new tool for the attenuation of craving among multiple substance dependent populations. METHOD A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted on the efficacy and tolerability of rTMS in treating cocaine use disorder (CUD). Relevant papers published in English through November 30th 2022 were identified, searching the electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library. RESULTS Eight studies matched inclusion criteria. The best findings were reported by the RCTs conducted at high-frequency (≥5 Hz) multiple sessions of rTMS delivered over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC): a significant decrease in self-reported cue-induced cocaine craving and lower cocaine craving scores and a considerable amelioration in the tendency to act rashly under extreme negative emotions (impulsivity) were found in the active group compared to controls. CONCLUSION Although still scant and heterogeneous, the strongest evidence so far on the use of rTMS on individuals with CUD support the high frequency stimulation over the left DLPFC as a well tolerated treatment of cocaine craving and impulsivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Amerio
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - C Baccino
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - G S Breda
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - D Cortesi
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - V Spiezio
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - L Magnani
- Department of Psychiatry, San Maurizio Hospital, Bolzano, Italy
| | - D De Berardis
- NHS, Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service for Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital "G. Mazzini", ASL 4, Teramo, Italy.
| | - B Conio
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Costanza
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Geneva University (UNIGE), Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Psychiatry, Adult Psychiatry Service (SPA), University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG), Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences, University of Italian Switzerland (USI), Lugano, Switzerland.
| | - G De Paola
- Ospedale Maria Luigia, Monticelli Terme, Italy
| | - G Rocca
- R&R Neuromodulation Lab, Piacenza, Italy
| | - G Arduino
- Department of Mental Health and Pathological Addictions, Piacenza Local Health Authority, Piacenza, Italy
| | - A Aguglia
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - M Amore
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - G Serafini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
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32
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Dębowska W, Więdłocha M, Dębowska M, Kownacka Z, Marcinowicz P, Szulc A. Transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine: implications for combined treatment in depression. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1267647. [PMID: 37954877 PMCID: PMC10637948 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1267647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug-resistant mental disorders, particularly treatment-resistant depression, pose a significant medical and social problem. To address this challenge, modern psychiatry is constantly exploring the use of novel treatment methods, including biological treatments, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and novel rapid-acting antidepressants, such as ketamine. While both TMS and ketamine demonstrate high effectiveness in reducing the severity of depressive symptoms, some patients still do not achieve the desired improvement. Recent literature suggests that combining these two methods may yield even stronger and longer-lasting results. This review aims to consolidate knowledge in this area and elucidate the potential mechanisms of action underlying the increased efficacy of combined treatment, which would provide a foundation for the development and optimization of future treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Dębowska
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Nöhles VB, Bermpohl F, Falkai P, Reif-Leonhard C, Jessen F, Adli M, Otte C, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Bauer M, Rubarth K, Anghelescu IG, Rujescu D, Correll CU. Patient characteristics, validity of clinical diagnoses and Outcomes Associated with Suicidality in Inpatients with Symptoms of Depression (OASIS-D): design, procedures and outcomes. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:744. [PMID: 37828493 PMCID: PMC10571442 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05230-9] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicidality, ranging from passive suicidal thoughts to suicide attempt, is common in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, relatively little is known about patient, illness and treatment characteristics in those with co-occurring MDD and suicidality, including the timing of and factors associated with the offset, continuation or reemergence of suicidality. Here, we present the background, rationale, design and hypotheses of the Patient Characteristics, Validity of Clinical Diagnoses and Outcomes Associated with Suicidality in Inpatients with Symptoms of Depression (OASIS-D) study, an investigator-initiated, observational study, funded by Janssen-Cilag GmbH. METHODS/RESULTS OASIS-D is an eight-site, six-month, cohort study of patients aged 18-75 hospitalized with MDD. Divided into three sub-studies and patient populations (PPs), OASIS-D will (i) systematically characterize approximately 4500 consecutively hospitalized patients with any form of unipolar depressive episode (PP1), (ii) evaluate the validity of the clinical diagnosis of moderate or severe unipolar depressive episode with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) and present suicidality (at least passive suicidal thoughts) present ≥ 48 h after admission with the Sheehan-Suicide Tracking Scale (S-STS), assessing also predictors of the diagnostic concordance/discordance of MDD in around 500 inpatients (PP2), and (iii) characterize and prospectively follow for 6 months 315 inpatients with a research-verified moderate or severe unipolar depressive episode and at least passive suicidal thoughts ≥ 48 h after admission, evaluating treatment and illness/response patterns at baseline, hospital discharge, 3 and 6 months. Exploratory objectives will describe the association between the number of days with suicidality and utilization of outpatient and inpatient care services, and structured assessments of factors influencing the risk of self-injurious behavior without suicidal intent, and of continuous, intermittent or remitted suicidality during the 6-month observation period. CONCLUSION Despite their frequency and clinical relevance, relatively little is known about patient and treatment characteristics of individuals with MDD and suicidality, including factors moderating and mediating the outcome of both MDD and suicidality. Results of the OASIS-D study are hoped to improve the understanding of the frequency, correlates and 6-month naturalistic treatment and outcome trajectories of different levels of suicidality in hospitalized adults with MDD and suicidality. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04404309 [ClinicalTrials.gov].
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor B Nöhles
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Bermpohl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus St. Hedwig Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Falkai
- Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Reif-Leonhard
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Frank Jessen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mazda Adli
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Mitte, Berlin, Germany
- Center for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Fliedner Klinik Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Otte
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden, Germany
| | - Kerstin Rubarth
- Institute of Medical Informatics, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Biometry and Clinical Epidemiology, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ion-George Anghelescu
- Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Mental Health Institute Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dan Rujescu
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin - Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
- Psychiatry Research, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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Akbar D, Rhee TG, Ceban F, Ho R, Teopiz KM, Cao B, Subramaniapillai M, Kwan ATH, Rosenblat JD, McIntyre RS. Dextromethorphan-Bupropion for the Treatment of Depression: A Systematic Review of Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials. CNS Drugs 2023; 37:867-881. [PMID: 37792265 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-023-01032-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A significant proportion of adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) do not respond to treatments which are currently used in clinical practice such as first-generation monoamine-based antidepressants. OBJECTIVES The objective of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of action of AXS-05, a combination of the NMDA-receptor antagonist dextromethorphan with bupropion, in adults with MDD. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov for current studies reporting on efficacy and/or safety of AXS-05 in patients with MDD. The search terms included: "AXS-05" OR "dextromethorphan and bupropion" AND "depression". Studies from database inception to January 2023 were evaluated. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. RESULTS The search yielded 54 studies of which 5 were included. All studies had low risk of bias. Depression severity, measured with the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) significantly decreased as early as 1-week post-treatment from baseline when compared to a placebo-controlled group (LS mean difference 2.2; 95% CI 0.6-3.9; p = 0.007) and at 2 weeks compared to an active control group (LS mean difference 4.7; 95% CI 0.6-8.8; p = 0.024). Treatment efficacy could be maintained for up to 12 months with mean MADRS score reduction of 23 points from baseline. Clinical remission and response rates also improved at week 1 and were maintained for 12 months. The treatment was well-tolerated, with some transient adverse events reported. CONCLUSION Current evidence suggests that the combination of dextromethorphan and bupropion is a well-tolerated, rapid-acting treatment option for adults with MDD. Initial success with AXS-05 supports the mechanistic role of glutamatergeric and sigma 1 signaling in the pathophysiology of MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania Akbar
- Mood Disorder Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Taeho Greg Rhee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- VA New England Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Felicia Ceban
- Mood Disorder Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation (BCDF), 77 Bloor St W Suite 617, Toronto, ON, M5S 1M2, Canada
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Roger Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kayla M Teopiz
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation (BCDF), 77 Bloor St W Suite 617, Toronto, ON, M5S 1M2, Canada
| | - Bing Cao
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Faculty of Psychology, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Mehala Subramaniapillai
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation (BCDF), 77 Bloor St W Suite 617, Toronto, ON, M5S 1M2, Canada
| | - Angela T H Kwan
- Mood Disorder Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation (BCDF), 77 Bloor St W Suite 617, Toronto, ON, M5S 1M2, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua D Rosenblat
- Mood Disorder Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation (BCDF), 77 Bloor St W Suite 617, Toronto, ON, M5S 1M2, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Kalkman HO. Activation of σ1-Receptors by R-Ketamine May Enhance the Antidepressant Effect of S-Ketamine. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2664. [PMID: 37893038 PMCID: PMC10604479 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102664] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine is a racemic mixture composed of two enantiomers, S-ketamine and R-ketamine. In preclinical studies, both enantiomers have exhibited antidepressant effects, but these effects are attributed to distinct pharmacological activities. The S-enantiomer acts as an NMDA-channel blocker and as an opioid μ-receptor agonist, whereas the R-enantiomer binds to σ1-receptors and is believed to act as an agonist. As racemate, ketamine potentially triggers four biochemical pathways involving the AGC-kinases, PKA, Akt (PKB), PKC and RSK that ultimately lead to inhibitory phosphorylation of GSK3β in microglia. In patients with major depressive disorder, S-ketamine administered as a nasal spray has shown clear antidepressant activity. However, when compared to intravenously infused racemic ketamine, the response rate, duration of action and anti-suicidal activity of S-ketamine appear to be less pronounced. The σ1-protein interacts with μ-opioid and TrkB-receptors, whereas in preclinical experiments σ1-agonists reduce μ-receptor desensitization and improve TrkB signal transduction. TrkB activation occurs as a response to NMDA blockade. So, the σ1-activity of R-ketamine may not only enhance two pathways via which S-ketamine produces an antidepressant response, but it furthermore provides an antidepressant activity in its own right. These two factors could explain the apparently superior antidepressant effect observed with racemic ketamine compared to S-ketamine alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans O Kalkman
- Retired Pharmacologist, Gänsbühlgartenweg 7, 4132 Muttenz, Switzerland
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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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Garel N, Nazon M, Naghi K, Willis E, Looper K, Rej S, Greenway KT. Ketamine for depression: a potential role in requests for Medical Aid in Dying? Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2023; 38:352-355. [PMID: 37159173 DOI: 10.1097/yic.0000000000000462] [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] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD) is the act of a healthcare provider ending a patient's life, at their request, due to unbearable suffering from a grievous and incurable disease. Access to MAiD has expanded in the last decade and, more recently, it has been made available for psychiatric illnesses in a few countries. Recent studies have found that such psychiatric requests are rapidly increasing and primarily involve mood disorders as the primary condition. Nevertheless, MAiD for psychiatric disorders is associated with significant controversy and debate, especially regarding the definition and determination of irremediability - that a given patient lacks any reasonable prospect for recovery. In this article, we report the case of a Canadian patient who was actively requesting Medical Assistance in Dying for severe and prolonged treatment-resistant depression until she experienced remarkable benefits from a course of intravenous ketamine infusions. To our knowledge, this is the first report of ketamine or any other intervention yielding remission in a patient who would have otherwise likely been eligible for MAiD for depression. We discuss implications for the evaluation of similar requests and, more specifically, why a trial of ketamine warrants consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Garel
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Ludmer Research and Training Building
| | | | - Kamran Naghi
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital
| | - Elena Willis
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital
| | - Karl Looper
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Ludmer Research and Training Building
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital
| | - Soham Rej
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Ludmer Research and Training Building
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill Meditation and Mind-Body Medicine Research Clinic and Geri-PARTy Research Group, Lady Davis Research Institute and Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kyle T Greenway
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Ludmer Research and Training Building
- Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill Meditation and Mind-Body Medicine Research Clinic and Geri-PARTy Research Group, Lady Davis Research Institute and Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Chisamore N, Danayan K, Rodrigues NB, Di Vincenzo JD, Meshkat S, Doyle Z, Mansur R, Phan L, Fancy F, Chau E, Tabassum A, Kratiuk K, Arekapudi A, McIntyre RS, Rosenblat JD. Real-world effectiveness of repeated intravenous ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant depression in transitional age youth. J Psychopharmacol 2023; 37:775-783. [PMID: 37194253 PMCID: PMC10399094 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231171531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ketamine is an emerging treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) associated with rapid and robust improvements in depressive symptoms and suicidality. However, the efficacy and safety of ketamine in transitional age youth (TAY; age 18-25) populations remains understudied. METHODS In this retrospective analysis, TAY patients (n = 52) receiving ketamine for TRD were matched for sex, primary diagnosis, baseline depression severity, and treatment resistance with a general adult (GA) sample (age 30-60). Patients received four ketamine infusions over 2 weeks (0.5-0.75 mg/kg over 40 min). The primary outcome was the change in Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report 16-item (QIDS-SR16) over time. Secondary outcomes were changes in QIDS-SR16 suicidal ideation (SI) item, anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7)), and adverse effects (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04209296). RESULTS A significant main effect of infusions on reduction of total QIDS-SR16 (p < 0.001), QIDS-SR16 SI (p < 0.001), and GAD-7 (p < 0.001) scores was observed in the TAY group with moderate effect sizes, indicative of clinically significant improvements in depression, anxiety, and suicidality. There were no significant differences between TAY and GA groups on these measures over time, suggesting comparable improvements in both groups. Safety and tolerability outcomes were comparable between groups with only mild, transient adverse effects observed. CONCLUSION Ketamine was associated with comparable clinical benefits, safety, and tolerability in a TAY sample as compared to a matched GA TRD sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Chisamore
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kevork Danayan
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nelson B Rodrigues
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua D Di Vincenzo
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Shakila Meshkat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Zoe Doyle
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Rodrigo Mansur
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Lee Phan
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Farhan Fancy
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | | | - Aniqa Tabassum
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Kevin Kratiuk
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Anil Arekapudi
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Joshua D. Rosenblat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Canadian Rapid Treatment Centre of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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Johnston JN, Allen J, Shkolnikov I, Sanchez-Lafuente CL, Reive BS, Scheil K, Liang S, Christie BR, Kalynchuk LE, Caruncho HJ. Reelin Rescues Behavioral, Electrophysiological, and Molecular Metrics of a Chronic Stress Phenotype in a Similar Manner to Ketamine. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0106-23.2023. [PMID: 37550058 PMCID: PMC10431216 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0106-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, has demonstrated fast-acting antidepressant effects previously unseen with monoaminergic-based therapeutics. Concerns regarding psychotomimetic effects limit the use of ketamine for certain patient populations. Reelin, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein, has shown promise as a putative fast-acting antidepressant in a model of chronic stress. However, research has not yet demonstrated the changes that occur rapidly after peripheral reelin administration. To address this key gap in knowledge, male Long-Evans rats underwent a chronic corticosterone (CORT; or vehicle) paradigm (40 mg/kg, 21 d). On day 21, rats were then administered an acute dose of ketamine (10 mg/kg, i.p.), reelin (3 µg, i.v.), or vehicle. Twenty-four hours after administration, rats underwent behavioral or in vivo electrophysiological testing before killing. Immunohistochemistry was used to confirm changes in hippocampal reelin immunoreactivity. Lastly, the hippocampus was microdissected from fresh tissue to ascertain whole cell and synaptic-specific changes in protein expression through Western blotting. Chronic corticosterone induced a chronic stress phenotype in the forced swim test and sucrose preference test (SPT). Both reelin and ketamine rescued immobility and swimming, however reelin alone rescued latency to immobility. In vivo electrophysiology revealed decreases in hippocampal long-term potentiation (LTP) after chronic stress which was increased significantly by both ketamine and reelin. Reelin immunoreactivity in the dentate gyrus paralleled the behavioral and electrophysiological findings, but no significant changes were observed in synaptic-level protein expression. This exploratory research supports the putative rapid-acting antidepressant effects of an acute dose of reelin across behavioral, electrophysiological, and molecular measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenessa N Johnston
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Josh Allen
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Irene Shkolnikov
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Carla L Sanchez-Lafuente
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Brady S Reive
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Kaylene Scheil
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Stanley Liang
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Brian R Christie
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Lisa E Kalynchuk
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Hector J Caruncho
- Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
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Jawad MY, Qasim S, Ni M, Guo Z, Di Vincenzo JD, d'Andrea G, Tabassum A, Mckenzie A, Badulescu S, Grande I, McIntyre RS. The Role of Ketamine in the Treatment of Bipolar Depression: A Scoping Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:909. [PMID: 37371387 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bipolar depression remains a clinical challenge with a quarter of patients failing to respond to initial conventional treatments. Although ketamine has been extensively studied in unipolar depression, its role in bipolar disorder remains inconclusive. The aim of our scoping review was to comprehensively synthesize the current clinical literature around ketamine use in bipolar depression. A total of 10 clinical studies (5 randomized controlled trials and 5 open label studies) were selected. The preliminary evidence, albeit weak, suggests that ketamine is a promising treatment and calls for further interest from the research community. Overall, ketamine treatment appeared to be tolerable with minimal risk for manic/hypomanic switching and showed some effectiveness across parameters of depression and suicidality. Moreover, ketamine is a potential treatment agent in patients with treatment-resistant bipolar depression with promising data extracted from extant controlled trials and real-world effectiveness studies. Future studies are needed to identify ketamine's role in acute and maintenance treatment phases of bipolar depression. Moreover, future researchers should study the recurrence prevention and anti-suicidal effects of ketamine in the treatment of bipolar depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Youshay Jawad
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M6J 1H4, Canada
| | - Saleha Qasim
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Menglu Ni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G3, Canada
| | - Ziji Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON M5S 1M2, Canada
| | - Joshua D Di Vincenzo
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Giacomo d'Andrea
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University "G. d'Annunzio", 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Aniqa Tabassum
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Andrea Mckenzie
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Sebastian Badulescu
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
| | - Iria Grande
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, C. Villarroel, 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Medicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), C. Casanova, 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), C. Villarroel, 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Neurosciences (UBNeuro), P. de la Vall d'Hebron, 171, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5T 2S8, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON M5S 1M2, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
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de A Simoes Moreira D, Gauer LE, Teixeira G, Fonseca da Silva AC, Cavalcanti S, Quevedo J. Efficacy and adverse effects of ketamine versus electroconvulsive therapy for major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2023; 330:227-238. [PMID: 36907464 PMCID: PMC10497186 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.02.152] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND ECT is considered the fastest and most effective treatment for TRD. Ketamine seems to be an attractive alternative due to its rapid-onset antidepressant effects and impact on suicidal thoughts. This study aimed to compare efficacy and tolerability of ECT and ketamine for different depression outcomes (PROSPERO/CRD42022349220). METHODS We searched MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library and trial registries, which were the ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, without restrictions on publication date. SELECTION CRITERIA randomized controlled trials or cohorts comparing ketamine versus ECT in patients with TRD. RESULTS Eight studies met the inclusion criteria (of 2875 retrieved). Random-effects models comparing ketamine and ECT regarding the following outcomes were conducted: a) reduction of depressive symptoms severity through scales, g = -0.12, p = 0.68; b) response to therapy, RR = 0.89, p = 0.51; c) reported side-effects: dissociative symptoms, RR = 5.41, p = 0.06; nausea, RR = 0.73, p = 0.47; muscle pain, RR = 0.25, p = 0.02; and headache, RR = 0.39, p = 0.08. Influential & subgroup analyses were performed. LIMITATIONS Methodological issues with high risk of bias in some of the source material, reduced number of eligible studies with high in-between heterogeneity and small sample sizes. CONCLUSION Our study showed no evidence to support the superiority of ketamine over ECT for severity of depressive symptoms and response to therapy. Regarding side effects, there was a statistically significant decreased risk of muscle pain in patients treated with ketamine compared to ECT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Stefanie Cavalcanti
- Translational Psychiatry Program, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston), Houston, TX, USA; Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston), Houston, TX, USA
| | - João Quevedo
- Translational Psychiatry Program, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston), Houston, TX, USA; Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston), Houston, TX, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX, USA; Translational Psychiatry Laboratory, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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Johnston JN, Henter ID, Zarate CA. The antidepressant actions of ketamine and its enantiomers. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 246:108431. [PMID: 37146727 PMCID: PMC10213151 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Ketamine, an N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist first developed as an anesthetic, has shown significant promise as a medication with rapid antidepressant properties in treatment-resistant depression. However, concerns such as adverse side effects and potential misuse liability have limited its widespread use. Racemic ketamine has two enantiomers-(S)- and (R)-ketamine-that appear to have disparate underlying mechanisms. This brief review summarizes some of the most recent preclinical and clinical research regarding the convergent and divergent prophylactic, immediate, and sustained antidepressant effects of (S)- and (R)-ketamine while addressing potential differences in their side effect and misuse liability profiles. Preclinical research suggests divergent mechanisms underlying (S)- and (R)-ketamine, with (S)-ketamine more directly affecting mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling and (R)-ketamine more directly affecting extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) signaling. Clinical research suggests that (R)-ketamine has a milder side effect profile than (S)-ketamine and decreases depression rating scale scores, but recent randomized, controlled trials found that it had no significant antidepressant efficacy compared to placebo, suggesting that caution is warranted in interpreting its therapeutic potential. Future preclinical and clinical research is needed to maximize the efficacy of each enantiomer, either by optimizing dose, route of administration, or administration paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenessa N Johnston
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA, United States.
| | - Ioline D Henter
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA, United States
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MA, United States
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Abstract
There is increasing interest in exploring the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Classic psychedelics (such as psilocybin, LSD, ayahuasca/DMT), and atypical psychedelics (such as ketamine) have been studied in TRD. The evidence for the classic psychedelics TRD is limited at the present time; early studies however show promising results. There is also recognition that psychedelic research may be subject to a "hype bubble" at the present time. Future studies focused on delineating necessary ingredients of psychedelic treatments and the neurobiological basis of their effects, will help pave the way for the clinical use of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubham Kamal
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Manish Kumar Jha
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX 75390-9119, USA
| | - Rajiv Radhakrishnan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, 300 George Street, Suite 901, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
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Keeler JL, Treasure J, Himmerich H, Brendle M, Moore C, Robison R. Case report: Intramuscular ketamine or intranasal esketamine as a treatment in four patients with major depressive disorder and comorbid anorexia nervosa. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1181447. [PMID: 37255674 PMCID: PMC10225569 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1181447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction A comorbid diagnosis of a depressive disorder is a negative prognostic factor for individuals with AN, and novel treatments are needed to target depressive symptoms in this population. One emerging promising treatment for depressive disorders is ketamine, although there is less research investigating the use of ketamine for alleviating depression in people with AN. Case report This study reports on four patients with a lifetime diagnosis of AN and a comorbid diagnosis of major depressive disorder who received either intramuscular ketamine (n = 2) or intranasal esketamine (n = 2) treatment from a private psychiatric clinic. Depressive symptomatology (PHQ-9) was measured prior to (es)ketamine administration on every dosing session and adverse effects were recorded during and after dosing. All patients reported a subjective decrease in depression, although only those administered intranasal esketamine showed a reduction in PHQ-9 depression scores over time. Number of doses ranged from 3 to 23. All patients tolerated treatment well and no serious adverse effects emerged, however nausea/vomiting was experienced by one patient on one dosing session. Weight remained stable in all cases, although notably across all patients, weight at the beginning of treatment was within a "healthy" range. Discussion These findings suggest that (es)ketamine may reduce depressive symptoms in people with major depressive disorder and a comorbid diagnosis of AN. Future feasibility and pilot trials are warranted in order to elicit robust data on efficacy, acceptability, safety and tolerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Louise Keeler
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
| | - Janet Treasure
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Beckenham, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Hubertus Himmerich
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Beckenham, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Madeline Brendle
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Numinus Wellness, Draper, UT, United States
| | | | - Reid Robison
- Numinus Wellness, Draper, UT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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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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Li WC, Chen LF, Su TP, Li CT, Lin WC, Wu HJ, Tsai SJ, Bai YM, Tu PC, Chen MH. Right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex volumetric reduction is associated with antidepressant effect of low-dose ketamine infusion: A randomized, double-blind, midazolam-controlled PET-MRI clinical trial. J Affect Disord 2023; 335:105-110. [PMID: 37178823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.05.024] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence has shown a rapid antidepressant and antisuicidal effects of low-dose ketamine infusion among patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and prominent suicidal ideation (SI). The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) plays a crucial role in the TRD pathomechanisms. OBJECTIVE Whether the structural and functional changes of the DLPFC, particularly Brodmann area 46, are associated with the antidepressant and antisuicidal effects of ketamine infusion among such patients is unknown. METHODS We randomized 48 patients with TRD and SI into groups receiving a single infusion of 0.5 mg/kg ketamine or 0.045 mg/kg midazolam. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale were used to assess symptoms. Positron emission tomography (PET)-magnetic resonance imaging was conducted prior to infusion and on Day 3 postinfusion. We performed longitudinal voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis to evaluate the gray matter (GM) volume changes of the DLPFC. The standardized uptake value ratio (SUVr) of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET images was calculated using the SUV of the cerebellum as a reference region. RESULTS The VBM analysis revealed a small but significant volumetric reduction in the right DLPFC in the ketamine group compared with that in the midazolam group. A greater reduction in depressive symptoms was associated with a smaller decrease in right DLPFC volumes (p = 0.025). However, we found no SUVr changes of the DLPFC between baseline and post-Day 3 ketamine infusion. DISCUSSION The optimal modulation of the right DLPFC GM volumes may play an essential role in the antidepressant neuromechanisms of low-dose ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chi Li
- Integrated Brain Research Unit, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Li-Fen Chen
- Integrated Brain Research Unit, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Biomedical Informatics, 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
| | - 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
| | - 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
| | - Hui-Ju Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, 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
| | - 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
| | - 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
| | - 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.
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Payette O, Lespérance P, Jodoin VD, Longpré-Poirier C, Elkrief L, Richard M, Garel N, Miron JP. Intravenous ketamine for treatment-resistant depression patients who have failed to respond to transcranial magnetic stimulation: A case series. J Affect Disord 2023; 333:18-20. [PMID: 37075822 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.019] [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: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has become a well-established approach. In the past decade, intravenous (IV) racemic ketamine has also emerged as a potential treatment for TRD. Currently, little data is available on the clinical effects of IV racemic ketamine in TRD patients who experienced TMS-failure. METHODS Twenty-one (21) TRD patients who had failed to respond to a standard course of high-frequency left-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex TMS were subsequently scheduled to received IV racemic ketamine infusions. The IV racemic ketamine protocol consisted of 0,5 mg/kg infusions over 60 min, 3 times a week over 2 weeks. RESULTS Treatment was safe with minimal side-effects. Mean baseline MADRS score was 27.6 ± 6.4 (moderate depression), decreasing down to 18.6 ± 8.9 (mild depression) post-treatment. Mean percent improvement was 34.5 % ± 21.1 from baseline to post-treatment. Paired sample t-test showed significant MADRS score decrease pre- to post-treatment [t(20) = 7.212, p < .001]. Overall, four (4) patients (19.0 %) responded and two (2) of those achieved remission (9.5 %). LIMITATIONS Limitations of this case series include its retrospective and uncontrolled open-label nature, the lack of self-rating and standardized adverse events questionnaires, as well as follow-ups beyond the immediate treatment period. CONCLUSIONS Novel ways to increase the clinical effects of ketamine are being explored. We discuss potential combination approaches of ketamine with other modalities to augment its effects. Given the global burden of TRD, novel approaches are needed to curb the current mental health epidemic around the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Payette
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) et Centre de Recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Paul Lespérance
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) et Centre de Recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de Psychiatrie et d'Addictologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Desbeaumes Jodoin
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) et Centre de Recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Laurent Elkrief
- Département de Psychiatrie et d'Addictologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Maxime Richard
- Département de Psychiatrie et d'Addictologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Nicolas Garel
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medecine, McGill University, Ludmer Research & Training Building, 1033 Av. des Pins, Montréal, Quebec H3A 1A1, Canada
| | - Jean-Philippe Miron
- Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CHUM) et Centre de Recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de Psychiatrie et d'Addictologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, QC, Canada.
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Witkin JM, Golani LK, Smith JL. Clinical pharmacological innovation in the treatment of depression. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2023; 16:349-362. [PMID: 37000975 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2023.2198703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Deficiencies in standard of care antidepressants are driving novel drug discovery. A new age of antidepressant medications has emerged with the introduction of rapid-acting antidepressants with efficacy in treatment-resistant patients. AREAS COVERED The newly approved medicines and those in clinical development for major depressive disorder (MDD) are documented in this scoping review of newly approved and emerging antidepressants. Compounds are evaluated for clinical efficacy, tolerability, and safety and compared to those of standard of care medicines. EXPERT OPINION A new age of antidepressant discovery relies heavily on glutamatergic mechanisms. New medicines based upon the model of ketamine have been delivered and are in clinical development. Rapid onset and the ability to impact treatment-resistant depression, raises the question of the best first-line medicines for patients. Drugs with improvements in tolerability are being investigated (e.g. mGlu2/3 receptor antagonists, AMPA receptor potentiators, and novel NMDA receptor modulators). Multiple companies are working toward the identification of novel psychedelic drugs where the requirement for psychedelic activity is not fully known. Gaps still exist - methods for matching patients with specific medicines are needed, and medicines for the prevention of MDD and its disease progression need research attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M Witkin
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Departments of Neuroscience and Trauma Research, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN USA
| | - Lalit K Golani
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jodi L Smith
- Laboratory of Antiepileptic Drug Discovery, Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Johnston JN, Kadriu B, Allen J, Gilbert JR, Henter ID, Zarate CA. Ketamine and serotonergic psychedelics: An update on the mechanisms and biosignatures underlying rapid-acting antidepressant treatment. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109422. [PMID: 36646310 PMCID: PMC9983360 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of ketamine as a rapid-acting antidepressant spurred significant research to understand its underlying mechanisms of action and to identify other novel compounds that may act similarly. Serotonergic psychedelics (SPs) have shown initial promise in treating depression, though the challenge of conducting randomized controlled trials with SPs and the necessity of long-term clinical observation are important limitations. This review summarizes the similarities and differences between the psychoactive effects associated with both ketamine and SPs and the mechanisms of action of these compounds, with a focus on the monoaminergic, glutamatergic, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic, opioid, and inflammatory systems. Both molecular and neuroimaging aspects are considered. While their main mechanisms of action differ-SPs increase serotonergic signaling while ketamine is a glutamatergic modulator-evidence suggests that the downstream mechanisms of action of both ketamine and SPs include mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling and downstream GABAA receptor activity. The similarities in downstream mechanisms may explain why ketamine, and potentially SPs, exert rapid-acting antidepressant effects. However, research on SPs is still in its infancy compared to the ongoing research that has been conducted with ketamine. For both therapeutics, issues with regulation and proper controls should be addressed before more widespread implementation. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Ketamine and its Metabolites".
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenessa N Johnston
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Bashkim Kadriu
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Josh Allen
- The Alfred Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Jessica R Gilbert
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Ioline D Henter
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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Carhart-Harris RL, Chandaria S, Erritzoe DE, Gazzaley A, Girn M, Kettner H, Mediano PAM, Nutt DJ, Rosas FE, Roseman L, Timmermann C, Weiss B, Zeifman RJ, Friston KJ. Canalization and plasticity in psychopathology. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109398. [PMID: 36584883 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This theoretical article revives a classical bridging construct, canalization, to describe a new model of a general factor of psychopathology. To achieve this, we have distinguished between two types of plasticity, an early one that we call 'TEMP' for 'Temperature or Entropy Mediated Plasticity', and another, we call 'canalization', which is close to Hebbian plasticity. These two forms of plasticity can be most easily distinguished by their relationship to 'precision' or inverse variance; TEMP relates to increased model variance or decreased precision, whereas the opposite is true for canalization. TEMP also subsumes increased learning rate, (Ising) temperature and entropy. Dictionary definitions of 'plasticity' describe it as the property of being easily shaped or molded; TEMP is the better match for this. Importantly, we propose that 'pathological' phenotypes develop via mechanisms of canalization or increased model precision, as a defensive response to adversity and associated distress or dysphoria. Our model states that canalization entrenches in psychopathology, narrowing the phenotypic state-space as the agent develops expertise in their pathology. We suggest that TEMP - combined with gently guiding psychological support - can counter canalization. We address questions of whether and when canalization is adaptive versus maladaptive, furnish our model with references to basic and human neuroscience, and offer concrete experiments and measures to test its main hypotheses and implications. This article is part of the Special Issue on "National Institutes of Health Psilocybin Research Speaker Series".
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Carhart-Harris
- Psychedelics Division - Neuroscape, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA; Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK.
| | - S Chandaria
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Linacre College, University of Oxford, UK; Institute of Philosophy, School of Advanced Study, University of London, UK
| | - D E Erritzoe
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; CNWL-Imperial Psychopharmacology and Psychedelic Research Clinic (CIPPRS), UK
| | - A Gazzaley
- Psychedelics Division - Neuroscape, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - M Girn
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - H Kettner
- Psychedelics Division - Neuroscape, Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA; Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK
| | - P A M Mediano
- Department of Computing, Imperial College London, London, UK; Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - D J Nutt
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK
| | - F E Rosas
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Linacre College, University of Oxford, UK; Department of Informatics, University of Sussex, UK; Centre for Complexity Science, Imperial College London, UK
| | - L Roseman
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; CNWL-Imperial Psychopharmacology and Psychedelic Research Clinic (CIPPRS), UK
| | - C Timmermann
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; CNWL-Imperial Psychopharmacology and Psychedelic Research Clinic (CIPPRS), UK
| | - B Weiss
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; CNWL-Imperial Psychopharmacology and Psychedelic Research Clinic (CIPPRS), UK
| | - R J Zeifman
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Imperial College London, UK; NYU Langone Center for Psychedelic Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, USA
| | - K J Friston
- Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging, University College London, UK
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