Understanding how ketamine affects addiction and depression
Neurobiology of Ketamine Addiction
This study is looking at whether low doses of ketamine can help people who have both depression and a history of alcohol use stay feeling better and avoid falling back into depression, while also checking how it affects men and women differently.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tallahassee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10471826 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of ketamine, a drug known for its rapid antidepressant properties, on individuals with a history of alcohol use and depression. It aims to explore whether repeated low doses of ketamine can help prevent relapse into depression while considering the potential risks associated with its use as a substance of abuse. The study will also examine how these effects may differ between men and women, particularly focusing on the cognitive impacts of ketamine. By analyzing these factors, the research seeks to clarify the safety and efficacy of ketamine as a treatment option for those struggling with depression and alcohol use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have treatment-resistant depression and a history of alcohol use.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of depression or alcohol use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment pathway for individuals suffering from depression, particularly those with co-occurring alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with ketamine as a treatment for depression, but this specific approach focusing on alcohol use and gender differences is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Tallahassee, United States
- Florida State University — Tallahassee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kabbaj, Mohamed — Florida State University
- Study coordinator: Kabbaj, Mohamed
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.