Research suggests new drug targets for depression

Pilot studies of ketamine intrigue scientists, but risks of this anesthetic limit its clinical use.

Two small government-funded randomized controlled trials — one conducted in patients with treatment-resistant major depression and the other in those with treatment-resistant bipolar depression — have found that a single infusion of the anesthetic ketamine rapidly and significantly restored mood, energy, and interests. Although intriguing, at this point the results are more useful to researchers than to clinicians. Even at low doses, ketamine has significant side effects. Abused at higher doses, the drug is known on the streets as "Special K."