Using ketamine and digital training to improve depression treatment

1/2 A Brief Automated Neurocognitive Training to Enhance the Real-World Impact of Ketamine's Rapid Antidepressant Effect

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11132825

This study is exploring how combining intravenous ketamine, which helps with depression quickly, with digital brain training can make those benefits last longer and help change negative thoughts into positive ones, so if you're dealing with depression, this could be a great opportunity for you to feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11132825 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how intravenous ketamine, known for its rapid antidepressant effects, can be combined with automated cognitive training to enhance and prolong its benefits. The approach focuses on leveraging the brain's increased neuroplasticity after ketamine infusion to reshape negative thought patterns into more positive ones through digital training techniques. By doing so, the study aims to create a lasting impact on patients' mental health beyond the typical short-term effects of ketamine. Patients will participate in this innovative treatment to potentially improve their depressive symptoms significantly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with depression who are seeking alternative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of depression or those who are not responsive to ketamine treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and sustained treatment option for individuals suffering from depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in combining ketamine with cognitive training techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.