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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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Borgogna NC, Owen T, Vaughn J, Johnson DAL, Aita SL, Hill BD. So how special is special K? A systematic review and meta-analysis of ketamine for PTSD RCTs. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2299124. [PMID: 38224070 PMCID: PMC10791091 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2299124] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: PTSD is a significant mental health problem worldwide. Current evidence-based interventions suffer various limitations. Ketamine is a novel agent that is hoped to be incrementally better than extant interventions.Objective: Several randomized control trials (RCTs) of ketamine interventions for PTSD have now been published. We sought to systematically review and meta-analyse results from these trials to evaluate preliminary evidence for ketamine's incremental benefit above-and-beyond control interventions in PTSD treatment.Results: Omnibus findings from 52 effect sizes extracted across six studies (n = 221) yielded a small advantage for ketamine over control conditions at reducing PTSD symptoms (g = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.51). However, bias-correction estimates attenuated this effect (adjusted g = 0.20, 95%, CI = -0.08, 0.48). Bias estimates indicated smaller studies reported larger effect sizes favouring ketamine. The only consistent timepoint assessed across RCTs was 24-hours post-initial infusion. Effects at 24-hours post-initial infusion suggest ketamine has a small relative advantage over controls (g = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.06, 0.64). Post-hoc analyses at 24-hours post-initial infusion indicated that ketamine was significantly better than passive controls (g = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.03, 0.85), but not active controls (g = 0.24, 95% CI = -0.30, 0.78). Comparisons one-week into intervention suggested no meaningful group differences (g = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.00, 0.48). No significant differences were evident for RCTs that examined effects two-weeks post initial infusion (g = 0.17, 95% CI = -0.10, 0.44).Conclusions: Altogether, ketamine-for-PTSD RCTs reveal a nominal initial therapeutic advantage relative to controls. However, bias and heterogeneity appear problematic. While rapid acting effects were observed, all control agents (including saline) also evidenced rapid acting effects. We argue blind penetration to be a serious concern, and that placebo is the likely mechanism behind reported therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tyler Owen
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Jacob Vaughn
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - David A. L. Johnson
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | | | - Benjamin D. Hill
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
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3
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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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4
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Krystal JH, Kavalali ET, Monteggia LM. Ketamine and rapid antidepressant action: new treatments and novel synaptic signaling mechanisms. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:41-50. [PMID: 37488280 PMCID: PMC10700627 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01629-w] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Ketamine is an open channel blocker of ionotropic glutamatergic N-Methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptors. The discovery of its rapid antidepressant effects in patients with depression and treatment-resistant depression fostered novel effective treatments for mood disorders. This discovery not only provided new insight into the neurobiology of mood disorders but also uncovered fundamental synaptic plasticity mechanisms that underlie its treatment. In this review, we discuss key clinical aspects of ketamine's effect as a rapidly acting antidepressant, synaptic and circuit mechanisms underlying its action, as well as how these novel perspectives in clinical practice and synapse biology form a road map for future studies aimed at more effective treatments for neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- John H Krystal
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ege T Kavalali
- Department of Pharmacology and the Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Lisa M Monteggia
- Department of Pharmacology and the Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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5
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Garel N, Greenway KT, Dinh-Williams LAL, Thibault-Levesque J, Jutras-Aswad D, Turecki G, Rej S, Richard-Devantoy S. Intravenous ketamine for benzodiazepine deprescription and withdrawal management in treatment-resistant depression: a preliminary report. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:1769-1777. [PMID: 37532888 PMCID: PMC10579413 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01689-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
We present the first evidence that sub-anesthetic ketamine infusions for treatment resistant depression (TRD) may facilitate deprescription of long-term benzodiazepine/z-drugs (BZDRs). Long-term BZDR prescriptions are potentially harmful yet common, partly because of challenging withdrawal symptoms. Few pharmacological interventions have evidence for facilitating BZDR discontinuation, and none in patients actively suffering from TRD. In this ambi-directional cohort study, discontinuation of long-term (>6 month) BZDRs was attempted in 22 patients with severe unipolar or bipolar TRD receiving a course of six subanesthetic ketamine infusions over four weeks. We investigated the rates of successful BZDRs deprescription, trajectories of acute psychological withdrawal symptoms, and subsequent BZDRs abstinence during a mean follow-up of 1 year (primary outcome). Clinically significant deteriorations in depression, anxiety, sleep, and/or suicidality during the acute BZDR discontinuation phase were measured by repeated standardized scales and analyzed by latent growth curve models and percent correct classification analysis. Of the 22 eligible patients, all enrolled in this study and 91% (20/22) successfully discontinued all BZDRs by the end of the 4-week intervention, confirmed by urinary analyses. Less than 25% of discontinuers experienced any significant worsening of anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, or suicidality during treatment. During follow-up (mean [range] duration, 12 [3-24] months), 64% (14/22) of patients remained abstinent from any BZDRs. These preliminary results suggest that ketamine infusions for TRD may facilitate the deprescription of BZDRs, even in patients with active depressive symptoms and significant comorbidity. Further investigation is warranted into this potential novel application of ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Garel
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Kyle T Greenway
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Lê-Anh L Dinh-Williams
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Soham Rej
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- McGill Meditation and Mind-Body Medicine Research Clinic and Geri-PARTy Research Group, Lady Davis Research Institute and Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stephane Richard-Devantoy
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
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Hack LM, Zhang X, Heifets BD, Suppes T, van Roessel PJ, Yesavage JA, Gray NJ, Hilton R, Bertrand C, Rodriguez CI, Deisseroth K, Knutson B, Williams LM. Ketamine's acute effects on negative brain states are mediated through distinct altered states of consciousness in humans. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6631. [PMID: 37857620 PMCID: PMC10587184 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42141-5] [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: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine commonly and rapidly induces dissociative and other altered states of consciousness (ASCs) in humans. However, the neural mechanisms that contribute to these experiences remain unknown. We used functional neuroimaging to engage key regions of the brain's affective circuits during acute ketamine-induced ASCs within a randomized, multi-modal, placebo-controlled design examining placebo, 0.05 mg/kg ketamine, and 0.5 mg/kg ketamine in nonclinical adult participants (NCT03475277). Licensed clinicians monitored infusions for safety. Linear mixed effects models, analysis of variance, t-tests, and mediation models were used for statistical analyses. Our design enabled us to test our pre-specified primary and secondary endpoints, which were met: effects of ketamine across dose conditions on (1) emotional task-evoked brain activity, and (2) sub-components of dissociation and other ASCs. With this design, we also could disentangle which ketamine-induced affective brain states are dependent upon specific aspects of ASCs. Differently valenced ketamine-induced ASCs mediated opposing effects on right anterior insula activity. Participants experiencing relatively higher depersonalization induced by 0.5 mg/kg of ketamine showed relief from negative brain states (reduced task-evoked right anterior insula activity, 0.39 SD). In contrast, participants experiencing dissociative amnesia showed an exacerbation of insula activity (0.32 SD). These results in nonclinical participants may shed light on the mechanisms by which specific dissociative states predict response to ketamine in depressed individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Hack
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sierra-Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Xue Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Boris D Heifets
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Trisha Suppes
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Peter J van Roessel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sierra-Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Jerome A Yesavage
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sierra-Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Nancy J Gray
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Hilton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Claire Bertrand
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Carolyn I Rodriguez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Brian Knutson
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Leanne M Williams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Sierra-Pacific Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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Tsang VWL, Ragazan DC, Kryskow P, Walsh Z, Dames S. A Pilot Study Comparing a Community of Practice Program with and without Concurrent Ketamine-Assisted Therapy. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37655532 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2253798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has increased among healthcare providers, while the effectiveness of conventional treatments remains limited. Ketamine-assisted therapy offers a promising alternative; however, few have integrated ketamine with a group-based therapeutic modality. We report a retrospective, secondary analysis of a 12-week pilot of a Community of Practice (CoP) oriented group therapy program with optional, adjunct ketamine for depression, anxiety, and PTSD in a sample of 57 healthcare providers. All participants moved through the treatment as one group, with 38 electing to also receive three adjunct ketamine sessions in addition to the weekly CoP. Symptoms were assessed at baseline and pilot completion with the PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, and PCL-5 for PTSD. We observed significant reductions in the mean change among all participants, suggesting that benefit was derived from the CoP component, with or without ketamine as an adjunct. PHQ-9 scores decreased by 6.79 (95% CI: 5.09-8.49, p < .001), GAD-7 scores decreased by 5.57 (CI: 4.12-7.00, p < .001), and PCL-5 scores decreased by 14.83 (CI: 10.27-19.38, p < .001). Reductions were larger, but statistically nonsignificant, among those receiving ketamine. Further research is required to assess the impact of ketamine as an adjunct in group-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian W L Tsang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Dragos C Ragazan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Pamela Kryskow
- Health and Human Services, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Zach Walsh
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Shannon Dames
- Health and Human Services, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
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Hartland H, Mahdavi K, Jelen LA, Strawbridge R, Young AH, Alexander L. A transdiagnostic systematic review and meta-analysis of ketamine's anxiolytic effects. J Psychopharmacol 2023; 37:764-774. [PMID: 37005739 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231161627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ketamine may be effective in treating symptoms of anxiety, but the time profile of ketamine's anxiolytic effect is ill-defined. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the anxiolytic effect of ketamine at different time points across a range of clinical settings. METHODS Electronic databases were searched to capture randomised control trials measuring the anxiolytic effects of ketamine in contexts including mood disorders, anxiety disorders and chronic pain. Meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effects model. The correlations between (1) improvements in mean anxiety and depression scores, and (2) peak dissociation and improvements in mean anxiety scores were also assessed. RESULTS In all, 14 studies met inclusion criteria. Risk of bias was high in 11 studies. Ketamine significantly reduced anxiety scores compared to placebo at acute (<12 h; standard mean difference (SMD): -1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) [-1.89, -0.44], p < 0.01), subacute (24 h; SMD: -0.44, 95% CI [-0.65, -0.22], p < 0.01) and sustained (7-14 days; SMD: -0.40, 95% CI [-0.63, -0.17], p < 0.01) time points. Exploratory analyses revealed improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms correlated at both subacute (R2 = 0.621, p = 0.035) and sustained time points (R2 = 0.773, p = 0.021). The relationship between peak dissociation and improvement in anxiety was not significant. CONCLUSIONS Ketamine appears to offer rapid and sustained anxiety symptom relief across a range of clinical settings, with anxiolytic effects occurring within the first 12 h of administration and remaining effective for 1-2 weeks. Future studies could explore the effects of ketamine maintenance therapy on anxiety symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Hartland
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kimia Mahdavi
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Luke A Jelen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Strawbridge
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Allan H Young
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Laith Alexander
- Department of Psychological Medicine, School of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Fremont R, Brown O, Feder A, Murrough J. Ketamine for Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: State of the Field. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2023; 21:257-265. [PMID: 37404968 PMCID: PMC10316217 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20230006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a chronic and debilitating condition. Although several psychotherapeutic and pharmacological treatments are recommended for PTSD, many individuals do not respond to treatment or respond only partially, highlighting a critical need for additional treatments. Ketamine has the potential to address this therapeutic need. This review discusses how ketamine emerged as a rapid-acting antidepressant and has become a potential treatment for PTSD. A single dose of intravenous (IV) ketamine has been shown to facilitate rapid reduction of PTSD symptoms. Repeated IV ketamine administration significantly improved PTSD symptoms, compared with midazolam, in a predominantly civilian sample of individuals with PTSD. However, in a veteran and military population, repeated IV ketamine did not significantly reduce PTSD symptoms. Further study of ketamine as a treatment for PTSD is necessary, including which populations benefit most from this therapy and the potential benefits of combining psychotherapy and ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Fremont
- Depression and Anxiety Center for Discovery and Treatment, Department of Psychiatry (all authors), and Nash Family Department of Neuroscience (Murrough), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Oneysha Brown
- Depression and Anxiety Center for Discovery and Treatment, Department of Psychiatry (all authors), and Nash Family Department of Neuroscience (Murrough), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - Adriana Feder
- Depression and Anxiety Center for Discovery and Treatment, Department of Psychiatry (all authors), and Nash Family Department of Neuroscience (Murrough), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
| | - James Murrough
- Depression and Anxiety Center for Discovery and Treatment, Department of Psychiatry (all authors), and Nash Family Department of Neuroscience (Murrough), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York
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10
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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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11
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Hsiao YC, Lee MY, Chan MH, Chen HH. NMDA Receptor Glycine Binding Site Modulators for Prevention and Treatment of Ketamine Use Disorder. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:812. [PMID: 37375760 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ketamine offers a fast-acting approach to relieving treatment-resistant depression, but its abuse potential is an issue of concern. As ketamine is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) ion channel blocker, modulation of NMDAR might be an effective strategy to counteract the abuse liability of ketamine and even to treat ketamine use disorder. This study evaluated whether NMDAR modulators that act on glycine binding sites can decrease motivation to obtain ketamine and reduce reinstatement to ketamine-seeking behavior. Two NMDAR modulators, D-serine and sarcosine were examined. Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent training to acquire the ability to self-administer ketamine. The motivation to self-administer ketamine or sucrose pellets was examined under a progressive ratio (PR) schedule. The reinstatement of ketamine-seeking and sucrose pellet-seeking behaviors were assessed after extinction. The results showed that both D-serine and sarcosine significantly decreased the breakpoints for ketamine and prevented reinstatement of ketamine seeking. However, these modulators did not alter motivated behavior for sucrose pellets, the ability of the cue and sucrose pellets to reinstate sucrose-seeking behavior or spontaneous locomotor activity. These findings indicate that two NMDAR modulators can specifically reduce the measures of motivation and relapse for ketamine in rats, suggesting that targeting the glycine binding site of the NMDAR is a promising approach for preventing and treating ketamine use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Chin Hsiao
- Center for Neuropsychiatric Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli County 35053, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Yi Lee
- Center for Neuropsychiatric Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli County 35053, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Huan Chan
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Chengchi University, 64, Sec. 2, ZhiNan Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City 11605, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain, and Learning, National Chengchi University, 64, Sec. 2, ZhiNan Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City 11605, Taiwan
| | - Hwei-Hsien Chen
- Center for Neuropsychiatric Research, National Health Research Institutes, 35 Keyan Road, Zhunan, Miaoli County 35053, Taiwan
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Chengchi University, 64, Sec. 2, ZhiNan Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City 11605, Taiwan
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12
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Fagan HA, Baldwin DS. Pharmacological Treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Current Practice and Future Directions. Expert Rev Neurother 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37183813 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2211767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric condition, characterized by the presence of general apprehensiveness and excessive worry. Current management consists of a range of pharmacological and psychological treatments. However, many patients do not respond to first-line pharmacological treatments and novel anxiolytic drugs are being developed. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors first discuss the diagnostic criteria and epidemiology of GAD. The effective pharmacological treatments for GAD and their tolerability are addressed. Current consensus guidelines for treatment of GAD are discussed, and maintenance treatment, the management of treatment resistance, and specific management of older adults and children/adolescents are considered. Finally, novel anxiolytics under development are discussed, with a focus on those which have entered clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION A range of effective treatments for GAD are available, particularly duloxetine, escitalopram, pregabalin, quetiapine, and venlafaxine. There is a limited evidence base to support the further pharmacological management of patients with GAD who have not responded to initial treatment. Although many novel anxiolytics have progressed to clinical trials, translation from animal models has been mostly unsuccessful. However, the potential of several compounds including certain psychedelics, ketamine, oxytocin, and agents modulating the orexin, endocannabinoid, and immune systems merits further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry A Fagan
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- College Keep, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - David S Baldwin
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- College Keep, Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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13
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Singewald N, Sartori SB, Reif A, Holmes A. Alleviating anxiety and taming trauma: Novel pharmacotherapeutics for anxiety disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109418. [PMID: 36623804 PMCID: PMC10372846 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders associated with psychological trauma, stress and anxiety are a highly prevalent and increasing cause of morbidity worldwide. Current therapeutic approaches, including medication, are effective in alleviating symptoms of anxiety disorders and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), at least in some individuals, but have unwanted side-effects and do not resolve underlying pathophysiology. After a period of stagnation, there is renewed enthusiasm from public, academic and commercial parties in designing and developing drug treatments for these disorders. Here, we aim to provide a snapshot of the current state of this field that is written for neuropharmacologists, but also practicing clinicians and the interested lay-reader. After introducing currently available drug treatments, we summarize recent/ongoing clinical assessment of novel medicines for anxiety and PTSD, grouped according to primary neurochemical targets and their potential to produce acute and/or enduring therapeutic effects. The evaluation of putative treatments targeting monoamine (including psychedelics), GABA, glutamate, cannabinoid, cholinergic and neuropeptide systems, amongst others, are discussed. We emphasize the importance of designing and clinically assessing new medications based on a firm understanding of the underlying neurobiology stemming from the rapid advances being made in neuroscience. This includes harnessing neuroplasticity to bring about lasting beneficial changes in the brain rather than - as many current medications do - produce a transient attenuation of symptoms, as exemplified by combining psychotropic/cognitive enhancing drugs with psychotherapeutic approaches. We conclude by noting some of the other emerging trends in this promising new phase of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Singewald
- Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Leopold Franzens University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Simone B Sartori
- Institute of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Leopold Franzens University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Andrew Holmes
- Laboratory of Behavioral and Genomic Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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14
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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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15
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Lee HJ, Stein MB. Update on treatments for anxiety-related disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2023; 36:140-145. [PMID: 36480651 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000841] [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: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review examines recent evidence that informs the treatment of anxiety-related disorders. RECENT FINDINGS In addition to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and benzodiazepines, agomelatine has demonstrated efficacy in treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Other novel products, such as ketamine, psilocybin and cannabidiol, are in the process of gathering evidence in support of the treatment of anxiety disorders. In psychological therapy, various psychological treatments for anxiety disorders, such as mindfulness-based intervention, acceptance and commitment therapy, psychodynamic therapy, emotion-focused therapy and dialectical behavioural therapy, have been tried. Still, most therapies have not proven superior to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). In very preliminary findings: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was effective in GAD; transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) was effective for social anxiety disorder (SAD) and GAD and augmented exposure therapy for specific fears. Internet and mobile-based interventions have comparable efficacy to face-to-face therapy. SUMMARY Pharmacotherapy of anxiety disorders is expanding to novel products. Despite trying other psychological therapies for anxiety disorders, most therapies were comparable to but not superior to CBT. rTMS and tDCS were also used and show early promise for GAD, but further studies are needed. Most internet or mobile app based psychological therapies were based on CBT, and some can be considered as alternatives to in-person face-to-face therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jeong Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, National Cancer Center, Goyang, South Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Murray B Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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16
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Marchi M, Magarini FM, Galli G, Mordenti F, Travascio A, Uberti D, De Micheli E, Pingani L, Ferrari S, Galeazzi GM. The effect of ketamine on cognition, anxiety, and social functioning in adults with psychiatric disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1011103. [PMID: 36507365 PMCID: PMC9730521 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1011103] [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: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background It has been shown that ketamine can improve suicidality and depression. Evidence for other dimensions of psychopathology is lacking. We undertook a systematic review to investigate the effect of ketamine on cognition, anxiety, quality of life, and social functioning in adults with psychiatric disorders. Methods PubMed (Medline), Scopus, PsycINFO, and EMBASE were searched up to April 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ketamine [or its S (+) enantiomer] reporting data on cognition, anxiety, quality of life, social functioning in adults with psychiatric disorders were included. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was used for summarizing continuous outcomes. Results Twenty-two reports were included in the final selection, of which 20, corresponding to 1,298 participants, were included in the quantitative synthesis. Affective disorders were the predominant diagnostic category. Median follow-up time was 21 days. The evidence was rated moderate to very low. In most trials, ketamine was administered intravenously or as adjuvant to electro-convulsant therapy (ECT). Only 2 trials of intranasal esketamine were identified. The effect of ketamine on depression was confirmed (SMD: -0.61 [95% CI: -1.06; -0.16]). Furthermore, by pooling results of 6 RCTs, ketamine may be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms (SMD: -0.42 [95% CI: -0.84; 0.003]), particularly when administered not within ECT (5 trials; SMD: -0.58 [95% CI: -1.07; -0.09]). However, there was moderate heterogeneity of results. Patients treated with ketamine also had an improvement in social functioning (SMD: -0.31 [95% CI: -0.52; -0.10]), although the estimate was based only on 2 studies. No difference to comparators was found with respect to cognition and quality of life. Conclusion Alongside the antidepressant effect, ketamine may also improve anxiety and social functioning in adults with affective disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Marchi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Dipartimento ad Attività Integrata di Salute Mentale e Dipendenze Patologiche, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Federica Maria Magarini
- Department of Mental Health and Drug Abuse, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale (AUSL) Modena, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Federico Mordenti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Travascio
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Uberti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Edoardo De Micheli
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Pingani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Dipartimento ad Attività Integrata di Salute Mentale e Dipendenze Patologiche, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Silvia Ferrari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Dipartimento ad Attività Integrata di Salute Mentale e Dipendenze Patologiche, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Galeazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy,Dipartimento ad Attività Integrata di Salute Mentale e Dipendenze Patologiche, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy,*Correspondence: Gian Maria Galeazzi
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17
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Ahuja S, Brendle M, Smart L, Moore C, Thielking P, Robison R. Real-world depression, anxiety and safety outcomes of intramuscular ketamine treatment: a retrospective descriptive cohort study. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:634. [PMID: 36192794 PMCID: PMC9528178 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04268-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ketamine has emerged as a promising pharmacotherapy for depression and other mental illnesses, and the intramuscular (IM) administration of ketamine is now offered at many North American outpatient psychiatric clinics. However, a characterization of the outpatient population receiving IM ketamine treatment and an evaluation of the real-world depression, anxiety, and safety outcomes of long-term psychiatric IM ketamine treatment has not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, clinical outcomes, and adverse events of patients receiving IM ketamine treatment. METHODS Patient data from the electronic health records of a private outpatient psychiatric clinic network in the United States were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Adults with any psychiatric diagnosis who received ketamine treatment only by IM administration from January 2018 to June 2021 were included. A total of 452 patients were included in the cohort. RESULTS Patients receiving IM ketamine treatment had a mean of 2.8 (SD 1.4) psychiatric diagnoses. 420 (93%) patients had a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, 243 (54%) patients had a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder, and 126 (28%) patients had a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder. Patients received a median of 4 (range 1-48) IM ketamine treatments. Median depression scores (PHQ-9) improved 38% from 16.0 (IQR 11.3-21.8) at baseline to 10.0 (IQR 6.0-15.0) at last treatment (p < .001). Median anxiety scores (GAD-7) improved 50% from 14.0 (IQR 8.0-17.0) at baseline to 7.0 (IQR 4.3-11.8) at last treatment (p < .001). With maintenance ketamine treatments, average improvements in depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7) scores of at least 4.7 and 4.9 points were maintained for over 7 months. An adverse event occurred during 59 of 2532 treatments (2.3%). CONCLUSIONS IM ketamine is being utilized to treat psychiatric outpatients with multiple mental illnesses not limited to depression. Average depression and anxiety levels significantly improve throughout IM ketamine treatment and do not regress to baseline during patients' maintenance treatment phase. Prospective studies are recommended to confirm the long-term effectiveness and safety of IM ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Madeline Brendle
- Cedar Psychiatry, Springville, UT USA ,grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Leo Smart
- Cedar Psychiatry, Springville, UT USA
| | - Claire Moore
- Cedar Psychiatry, Springville, UT USA ,Numinus Wellness, Vancouver, British Columbia Canada
| | - Paul Thielking
- Cedar Psychiatry, Springville, UT USA ,Numinus Wellness, Vancouver, British Columbia Canada ,grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096University of Utah School of Medicine, DraperSalt Lake City, UT 721 E 12200 S, 84020 USA
| | - Reid Robison
- Cedar Psychiatry, Springville, UT, USA. .,Numinus Wellness, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. .,University of Utah School of Medicine, DraperSalt Lake City, UT, 721 E 12200 S, 84020, USA.
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18
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Le TT, Cordero IP, Jawad MY, Swainson J, Di Vincenzo JD, Jaberi S, Phan L, Lui LMW, Ho R, Rosenblat JD, McIntyre RS. The abuse liability of ketamine: A scoping review of preclinical and clinical studies. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 151:476-496. [PMID: 35623124 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
While ketamine has been used clinically over the past decades, it has only been recently shown to be a promising therapy for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). However, ketamine and related dissociative agents may also be misused recreationally, creating significant concerns for abuse liability when prescribed for depression. Although the abuse potential of ketamine is widely recognized, there is limited evidence on the differential abuse liability of ketamine enantiomers, (S)-ketamine and (R)-ketamine. The current scoping review aims to summarize the extant literature on the abuse liability of (R,S)-ketamine and the enantiomers. A systematic search was conducted on the Embase, Medline, and APA PsycInfo databases from 1947 to July 29, 2021. Clinical and preclinical studies that assessed the abuse potential of (R,S)-ketamine, (S)-ketamine, and (R)-ketamine were screened and assessed for eligibility by two independent reviewers. A total of 65 eligible studies were identified; 55 were preclinical studies and 10 were clinical studies. Only 4 preclinical studies evaluated the abuse liability of ketamine enantiomers. Available preclinical evidence suggests that (R,S)-ketamine and (S)-ketamine have greater risk for abuse compared to (R)-ketamine. (R)-ketamine, at the antidepressant-relevant doses in rodents, appears to be safe with minimal liability for abuse. Although the abuse potential of (R,S)-ketamine is well-established in animals, limited clinical studies indicate that single or repeated ketamine administrations in professionally controlled settings did not result in misuse, dependence, diversion and/or gateway activity in patients with TRD. However, most clinical studies were retrospective and did not systematically evaluate the abuse liability of ketamine via validated psychological scales/questionnaires. Future randomized controlled trials are warranted to ascertain the abuse liability of racemic, (S)- and (R)-ketamine in TRD population, especially among patients with comorbid substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuyen T Le
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabel Pazos Cordero
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Human Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Muhammad Youshay Jawad
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Joshua D Di Vincenzo
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Saja Jaberi
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lee Phan
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leanna M W Lui
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, 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
| | - Joshua D Rosenblat
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, ON, Canada; Canadian Rapid Treatment Center of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, Poul Hansen Family Centre for Depression, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Canadian Rapid Treatment Center of Excellence, Mississauga, ON, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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19
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Kritzer MD, Pae CU, Masand PS. Key considerations for the use of ketamine and esketamine for the treatment of depression: focusing on administration, safety, and tolerability. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2022; 21:725-732. [PMID: 35475388 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.2069749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Racemic ketamine, a derivative of phencyclidine, has been used as a dissociative anesthetic since 1970. In 2000, the first randomized controlled trial showed a rapid relief of depressive symptoms. Since then, intravenous ketamine and intranasal S-ketamine have been validated for the treatment of depression and suicidal ideation following dose-response and double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials. In clinical practice, after dose titration and with repeated treatments, patients may experience approximately 2-3 weeks of symptomatic relief from depression. AREAS COVERED Areas covered in this narrative review include mechanism of action, dosing, safety, and tolerability. Some attention is paid to the possibility of R-ketamine as a future antidepressant. EXPERT OPINION We recommend further investigation into treatment dosing and frequency strategies as well as approaches that prolong the therapeutic effects. The current fixed dosing of esketamine for obese individuals may be insufficient. Additional investigation into co-administration with somatic and neuromodulation treatments needs investigation. Finally, continuing to monitor research subjects and patients long-term for the emergence of adverse effects on cognition or other organ systems is critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Kritzer
- Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chi-Un Pae
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Cell Death Disease Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Prakash S Masand
- CEO, Centers of Psychiatric Excellence (COPE), New York, New York, USA.,Duke-NUS (National University of Singapore), Singapore
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