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Ketamine (2st phase)

Shalvata Mental Health Center · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Ketamine is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist that blocks glutamate signaling in the brain, producing rapid-onset dissociative anesthesia and analgesic effects.

Ketamine is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist that blocks glutamate signaling in the brain, producing rapid-onset dissociative anesthesia and analgesic effects. Used for Treatment-resistant depression (marketed/clinical use), Acute suicidal ideation and behavior, Anesthesia induction and maintenance.

At a glance

Generic nameKetamine (2st phase)
Also known asKetalar
SponsorShalvata Mental Health Center
Drug classNMDA receptor antagonist
TargetNMDA receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPsychiatry, Anesthesia, Pain Management
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Ketamine antagonizes N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, which are ionotropic glutamate receptors involved in excitatory neurotransmission. By blocking these receptors in a use-dependent manner, ketamine disrupts pain signal transmission and produces dissociative anesthesia. At sub-anesthetic doses, ketamine has shown rapid antidepressant effects, potentially through increased synaptic plasticity and AMPA receptor potentiation.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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