Researchers from the University of New South Wales and the affiliated Black Dog Institute have recently unveiled results from a pivotal double-blind trial in the British Journal of Psychiatry:
Study Highlights:
- 179 participants with treatment-resistant depression were recruited.
- Over 20% achieved total symptom remission with bi-weekly injections of a low-cost version of ketamine for one month.
- A third saw their symptoms improve by at least 50%.
- In comparison to the 20% remission rate in the ketamine group, only 2% in the placebo group reported such results, marking a significant difference.
Methodological Notables:
- The trial included participants who had undergone electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a rare approach in such studies.
- The administration was subcutaneous, simplifying the process compared to traditional drips.
- Midazolam, a sedative, was used as the placebo to ensure better blinding.
The researchers advocate for broader Medicare support given the treatment’s potential. Further trials and safety monitoring refinements are underway.
