Investigating how low doses of ketamine can help treat Parkinson's disease
Mechanisms of Low-Dose Ketamine Treatment for Parkinson's Disease
This study is looking at how low doses of ketamine might help people with Parkinson's disease feel better and manage their symptoms, especially since it could offer a new option beyond the usual treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10874836 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of low-dose ketamine on patients with Parkinson's disease, a condition that affects movement due to dopamine loss in the brain. The study aims to understand how ketamine can potentially alleviate symptoms and reduce the side effects associated with traditional dopamine replacement therapies. By examining brain activity and plasticity, the research seeks to identify mechanisms that could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients suffering from Parkinson's disease and related involuntary movements. Participants may receive low-dose ketamine infusions and undergo assessments to evaluate changes in their symptoms and brain function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who are experiencing movement difficulties and may be affected by L-DOPA-induced dyskinesia.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Parkinson's disease or those who are not experiencing significant movement-related symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that reduces debilitating side effects for Parkinson's disease patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that low-dose ketamine can be effective in treating conditions like depression and PTSD, suggesting potential for success in similar neurological applications.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Falk, Torsten — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Falk, Torsten
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 below.