Effects of Intranasal Ketamine on Depression and Anxiety in Palliative Care Cancer Patients (Keta-Care)

This open-label feasibility study (n=100) will assess the effectiveness, safety, and practicality of intranasal ketamine in treating depression and anxiety in palliative care cancer patients. Participants will self-administer 5 mg doses of ketamine nasal spray over an 8-week period, with outcomes measured through questionnaires evaluating depression, anxiety, sleep quality, quality of life, and caregiver burden.

The study, sponsored by the University of Zurich, aims to provide a fast-acting and low-side-effect antidepressant option for terminal cancer patients experiencing emotional distress. Given the limited life expectancy and complex medication regimens, traditional antidepressants may not be ideal, making ketamine a promising alternative.

The study will measure changes in symptoms using various scales, including the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). If successful, this treatment could improve patients’ quality of life and alleviate the burden on caregivers.

Topic Palliative Care Depression Anxiety
Compound Ketamine
Country Switzerland
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Sponsors & Collaborators

University of Zurich
Within the Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics at the University of Zurich, Dr Mialn Scheidegger is leading team conducting psychedelic research and therapy development.

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