Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Professor Masten
Second Advisor
Professor Hammerman
Abstract
Depression remains a significant public health challenge in the U.S., affecting millions of adults and contributing to both psychological and financial burdens. Major depressive disorder impacts approximately 14.5 million U.S. adults, with about 30% of cases classified as treatment-resistant depression. Traditional antidepressant therapies, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, often have delayed onset and limited efficacy, leaving a substantial portion of patients without adequate relief. Given these limitations, there is an urgent need for alternative treatment options.
Recent research has highlighted ketamine as a promising intervention for Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment Resistant Depression. Initially identified as an anesthetic, ketamine has demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects in multiple studies, offering hope for patients who do not respond to traditional therapies. However, concerns regarding its mechanism of action, potential side effects, and risk for abuse necessitate further investigation. This paper explores the current state of ketamine research, including its pharmacological mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and safety considerations. Additionally, the article examines both supporting and opposing perspectives on its use, common side effects, and the future direction of ketamine-based treatments. As research continues to evolve, understanding the long-term implications and optimizing treatment protocols will be essential for integrating ketamine into mainstream psychiatric care.
Recommended Citation
Schwing, Isabella, "KETAMINE INFUSION TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 5.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pa/5
Included in
Behavioral Medicine Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Other Mental and Social Health Commons, Other Psychiatry and Psychology Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Psychiatry Commons
KETAMINE INFUSION TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION
Depression remains a significant public health challenge in the U.S., affecting millions of adults and contributing to both psychological and financial burdens. Major depressive disorder impacts approximately 14.5 million U.S. adults, with about 30% of cases classified as treatment-resistant depression. Traditional antidepressant therapies, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, often have delayed onset and limited efficacy, leaving a substantial portion of patients without adequate relief. Given these limitations, there is an urgent need for alternative treatment options.
Recent research has highlighted ketamine as a promising intervention for Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment Resistant Depression. Initially identified as an anesthetic, ketamine has demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects in multiple studies, offering hope for patients who do not respond to traditional therapies. However, concerns regarding its mechanism of action, potential side effects, and risk for abuse necessitate further investigation. This paper explores the current state of ketamine research, including its pharmacological mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and safety considerations. Additionally, the article examines both supporting and opposing perspectives on its use, common side effects, and the future direction of ketamine-based treatments. As research continues to evolve, understanding the long-term implications and optimizing treatment protocols will be essential for integrating ketamine into mainstream psychiatric care.