Breakthrough: Slow-Release Ketamine Tablet Shows Promise for Treatment-Resistant Depression

Scientists have developed a slow-release ketamine tablet effective in treating depression resistant to standard treatments. This tablet releases ketamine gradually, avoiding dissociative effects such as hallucinations associated with the drug. Phase-2 clinical trials indicate significant improvement in patients, but further research funding is required before clinical approval.

Scientists have unveiled a new slow-release ketamine tablet showing potential in treating patients with depression who do not respond to standard treatments.

Unlike conventional methods, the slow-release tablet administers small amounts of ketamine into the bloodstream over time, negating the need for the patient to experience dissociation, which includes hallucinations, to benefit from its antidepressant effects.

Researchers from Australia and New Zealand conducted a phase-2 clinical trial, published in the journal Nature Medicine, with 170 patients. The results showed that higher dosages led to substantial improvements on the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Clinicians caution that further trials, requiring significant funding, are necessary before widespread clinical use.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)