An open-label clinical trial of oral ketamine, an NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor antagonist, with weekly dosing over six weeks, in 25-50 patients who are experiencing chronic suicidal ideation.

This open-label clinical trial (n=40) investigates the efficacy, feasibility, and tolerability of oral ketamine (35-210mg/70kg) in patients experiencing chronic suicidal ideation (SI).

Conducted by Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience – Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia, the trial administers weekly doses of ketamine over six weeks, ranging from 0.5mg/kg to 3.0mg/kg, under psychiatrist supervision. Participants’ suicidality levels are measured using the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation. Additionally, MRI and EEG are employed to explore the neurobiology of suicidality. Urinalysis, vital sign assessments, and rating scales are used to evaluate ketamine’s tolerability.

The study aims to assess the effectiveness of ketamine while understanding its neuropathology and feasibility for potential long-term use.

Recruitment concluded with 40 participants, surpassing the initial target of 25. The trial commenced in August 2018 and concluded data collection in October 2019.

Topic Suicidality
Compound Ketamine
Country Australia
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