Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2015

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of subanesthetic doses of ketamine using an off-label, transmucosal administration route in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify patients who met the inclusion criteria for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder. Seventeen such patients who received subanesthetic doses of ketamine were included. Patient demographics, efficacy (drug refill, clinician notes), side effects, and concurrent medications were assessed.

Results: Benefit from low-dose transmucosal ketamine was noted in 76% of subjects (average age 48 years, 88% female), with a dose duration lasting 7–14 days. No notable side effects were noted. The most common classes of concurrent medications to which ketamine was added were serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (59%), stimulants (47%), folate replacement (47%), and benzodiazepines (47%).

Conclusion: Our results provide preliminary evidence of the effectiveness and safety of lowdose transmucosal ketamine in treatment-resistant patients. A controlled, prospective pilot study is warranted to validate these findings.

Publisher's Statement

Originally published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 11, 2667-73. Licensed under CC BY-NC 3.0. doi:10.2147/NDT.S88569

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