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Ketamine use in pediatric depression: A systematic review
Shakila Meshkat1, Joshua D Rosenblat2, Roger C Ho3
1Mood Disorders Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Psychiatry Research
|September 21, 2023
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in treating pediatric depression, significantly reducing symptoms with few adverse events. Further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in children and adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pediatric depression is a serious condition with high morbidity and mortality.
- Ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, has shown antidepressant effects in adults.
- The use of ketamine for pediatric depression is not well-established.
Approach:
- A systematic review of six studies (46 participants, mean age 15.7 years) was conducted.
- Studies included case reports, a randomized clinical trial, and open-label trials.
- Intravenous ketamine (0.5 mg/kg or 2-7 µg/kg) was administered.
Key Points:
- Ketamine significantly reduced depressive symptoms in pediatric participants.
- No severe adverse events were reported.
- Studies were limited by small sample sizes and exclusive use of intravenous administration.
Conclusions:
- Ketamine may be a viable treatment option for pediatric depression.
- Limitations include small sample sizes and the exclusive use of intravenous administration.
- Larger studies with varied administration methods are necessary to confirm efficacy and safety.
Keywords:
AntidepressantBipolar disorderDepressionGlutamateKetamineMood disordersNMDAPediatricRapid actingMore Related Videos
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