Using ketamine to improve memory and reduce fear in people with PTSD
Using Ketamine to enhance memory reconsolidation and extinction of overgeneralized fear in individuals diagnosed with PTSD
This study is looking at whether ketamine, a medication usually used for anesthesia, can help people with PTSD by improving their memory and reducing fear responses when combined with therapy, aiming to make treatment more effective and quicker for those who struggle with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10840953 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of ketamine, a medication typically used as an anesthetic, to enhance memory reconsolidation and help extinguish overgeneralized fear responses in individuals diagnosed with PTSD. The study aims to provide a novel pharmacological approach to treating PTSD, which currently has limited effective medications. By exploring the effects of ketamine in conjunction with intensive exposure therapy, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes and reduce the time required for patients to experience relief from symptoms. Participants will receive ketamine in a controlled setting, allowing researchers to assess its impact on their PTSD symptoms over a short period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD who have not responded well to traditional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of PTSD or those who are currently receiving effective treatment for their symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more effective treatments for individuals suffering from PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Recent studies have shown promising results using ketamine for reducing PTSD symptoms, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harpaz-Rotem, Ilan — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Harpaz-Rotem, Ilan
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.