Using ketamine to enhance therapy for PTSD
Repeated Ketamine Treatment to Accelerate Efficacy of Prolonged Exposure in PTSD
This study is looking at whether adding ketamine to Prolonged Exposure therapy can help people with PTSD feel better faster, especially for those who haven't found relief with standard treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Minneapolis VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044043 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of ketamine as an adjunct treatment to Prolonged Exposure therapy for individuals suffering from PTSD. The study aims to determine if ketamine can accelerate the effectiveness of this therapy, which is often the primary treatment recommended for PTSD. By leveraging ketamine's unique properties that promote neuroplasticity and enhance learning, the research seeks to improve outcomes for patients who have not responded adequately to traditional treatments. Participants will receive ketamine alongside their therapy sessions to assess any improvements in their symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD, particularly those who have not found relief from standard treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with PTSD or those who have contraindications to ketamine treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients with PTSD, potentially reducing symptoms more rapidly.
How similar studies have performed: Emerging research has shown promising results using ketamine in similar therapeutic contexts, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- Minneapolis VA Medical Center — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shiroma, Paulo R. — Minneapolis VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Shiroma, Paulo R.
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.