Ketamine has received a lot of attention in recent years as a possible fast-acting treatment for depression, especially for people who haven’t had success with other medications. But a new study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that ketamine may not be as effective as once believed—at least not for patients in the hospital already receiving regular treatment.
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin followed 65 hospital patients with moderate to severe depression. Half received ketamine infusions twice a week, while the other half received a placebo drug (a look-alike medicine that doesn’t have active effects). Both groups continued to receive their usual antidepressant medications and therapy during their hospital stay. After six months, the results showed no major difference in mood improvement between the two groups. The actual study can be found here, in JAMA Psychiatry.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Declan McLoughlin, explained that ketamine did not provide any extra benefit beyond standard hospital care. Earlier studies had shown more promising results, but this newer and more carefully controlled trial suggests that those earlier results may have been too optimistic. It’s possible that some of the excitement around ketamine came from smaller studies or situations where patients guessed which treatment they were receiving.
That guessing turned out to be an important part of this study. Many patients could tell whether they were getting ketamine or not—mostly because ketamine can cause short-term effects like feeling detached or light-headed. When people know or think they know what treatment they’re getting, it can influence how they feel about their progress. The researchers pointed out that this “placebo effect” may have made ketamine look more effective in earlier studies. You can find more info on the “placebo effect” in this NIH article.
If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, this study is a good reminder that there’s no single magic treatment. Ketamine can still help some people, but it’s not right for everyone. A psychiatrist can help you understand whether ketamine or another option makes sense for you, discuss possible side effects, and guide your care safely. Real progress often comes from a combination of treatments—medication, therapy, support, and time—guided by a plan that fits your unique situation.
At Penciu Medical we are dedicated to providing compassionate behavioral health services to young adults and professionals living and working in Greater Los Angeles. We value a collaborative, evidence-based, individualized treatment approach, utilizing medication management, psychotherapy, and innovative treatments. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today!
