Exploring the use and effects of ketamine in medical and recreational contexts
Official title: Investigating the Ketamine Landscape: Availability, Medical and Recreational Use, and Effects
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-11061801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how ketamine is being used for treating depression and as a recreational drug, focusing on its safety and effectiveness, so that patients can better understand its risks and benefits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $678,313 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA060207-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who are either prescribed ketamine for medical purposes or are involved in recreational use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are under 21 years old or those who do not use ketamine in any form may not receive benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the increasing use of ketamine, both as a prescribed medication for conditions like depression and as a recreational drug. It aims to gather data on prescribing practices, medical and nonmedical use, and the associated risks such as poisonings and adverse events. By analyzing trends in the New York City tristate area, the study seeks to understand how media and cultural perceptions influence ketamine's use. Patients may benefit from insights into the safety and efficacy of ketamine treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable information on the safe use of ketamine and help mitigate risks associated with its misuse.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of ketamine, but this study aims to provide a comprehensive view of both medical and recreational use, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Palamar, Joseph J — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Palamar, Joseph J
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Ketamine to boost fear extinction and memory on PTSD patients
A study testing whether ketamine can help people with PTSD better relearn and forget fear when given in a guided treatment plan.
-
Automated self-acceptance training plus ketamine to extend antidepressant benefits
A study tests whether adding a quick computerized self-positivity training after ketamine can prolong relief from depression for people seeking ketamine treatment.
-
Ultrasound-triggered ketamine delivery to a brain region to treat chronic pain
A Stanford team is testing a new way to give ketamine exactly where it’s needed in the brain to relieve chronic pain without opioids.
-
Ketamine-assisted care plan to help Veterans with chronic back pain and depression
A program for Veterans with chronic low back pain and depression that uses ketamine infusions followed by a brief narrative therapy to sustain relief from pain and mood improvement.
-
Ketamine to reduce postpartum depression and pain after cesarean delivery
This grant explores a ketamine approach to help new mothers after cesarean delivery feel better sooner and with less pain.
-
IV ketamine vs morphine for acute pain in children
A new comparison in kids with acute pain will test whether a low-dose IV ketamine works as well as IV morphine for pain relief and safety in the emergency department.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.