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Continuous ketamine infusion
Ketamine blocks NMDA glutamate receptors in the brain, rapidly reducing depressive symptoms through dissociative and neuromodulatory effects.
Ketamine blocks NMDA glutamate receptors in the brain, rapidly reducing depressive symptoms through dissociative and neuromodulatory effects. Used for Treatment-resistant depression, Major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation.
At a glance
| Generic name | Continuous ketamine infusion |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | NYU Langone Health |
| Drug class | NMDA receptor antagonist |
| Target | NMDA receptor (glutamate receptor) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Psychiatry / Mental Health |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Ketamine is a non-competitive antagonist at the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, a subtype of glutamate receptor. Unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks to work, ketamine produces rapid antidepressant effects, potentially through downstream activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling and increased synaptic plasticity. Continuous infusion allows for sustained therapeutic levels and may enhance efficacy in treatment-resistant depression.
Approved indications
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation
Common side effects
- Dissociation
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Increased blood pressure
- Sedation
Key clinical trials
- Electroencephalographic (EEG) Profils for Patients on Intravenous Ketamine.
- Erector Spinae Block Vs Ketamine-based Multimodal Analgesia Protocol in Lumber Decompressive Surgery (NA)
- Opioid Free and Opioid Based Anesthesia in Elective Lumbar Spine Surgery
- Ketamine Treatment of Youth Suicide Attempters (PHASE3)
- Ketamine add-on Therapy for Established Status Epilepticus Treatment Trial (KESETT) (PHASE3)
- ACT_for Alcohol Use Disorder and Depression (NA)
- An Exploratory Study of the Efficacy and Safety of Esketamine and Dexmedetomidine in Non-Intubated ICU Patients With Hyperactive Delirium (PHASE4)
- Ketamine Administration for Postoperative Pain Management in Patients Undergoing Knee Arthroplasty (NA)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |