Ketamine/Esketamine in the Treatment of Serious and Persistent Depression: Practical Considerations-Lecture Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Jerry Santacora discusses the use of ketamine as a treatment for serious and persistent depression. He begins by giving a brief history of how ketamine came to be considered as an antidepressant, and why there is a need for new treatments despite the availability of many approved antidepressant drugs. Dr. Santacora then summarizes the existing research on ketamine, including its rapid onset of antidepressant effects and its ability to maintain those effects over time. He also discusses the optimal dosing frequency and route of administration, with a focus on the use of S-ketamine as an intranasal spray. The evidence suggests that S-ketamine can be effective at lower doses than racemic ketamine, and that twice-weekly dosing may be just as effective as three times a week. Dr. Santacora also addresses concerns about the long-term safety and cognitive effects of ketamine, and highlights the importance of individualizing treatment based on patient characteristics. He concludes by discussing ongoing research and the need for further studies to refine the use of ketamine as a treatment for depression. This video is part of a webinar series hosted by SMI Advisor, an initiative focused on helping clinicians implement evidence-based care for serious mental illness. Dr. Santacora serves as one of the faculty members for the webinar, which was organized by the SMI Advisor Clinical Expert Team.

Keywords

ketamine

depression

antidepressant

S-ketamine

intranasal spray

treatment

research

dosing frequency

cognitive effects