Using ketamine to quickly reduce suicidal thoughts in emergency room patients
IM Ketamine for rapid reduction of suicidal thoughts in high-risk emergency room patients: a midazolam-controlled trial
This study is looking at how well ketamine can help people in emergency rooms who are having severe thoughts of suicide, comparing it to a common sedative called midazolam, to see if ketamine can quickly make them feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10469693 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of ketamine as a rapid treatment for patients experiencing severe suicidal thoughts in emergency departments. The study compares the effects of ketamine to midazolam, a commonly used sedative, to determine its effectiveness in alleviating suicidal ideation. By focusing on patients who have recently engaged in self-harm or expressed suicidal thoughts, the research aims to provide a timely intervention that could significantly improve patient outcomes. The approach involves administering ketamine in a controlled setting and monitoring its effects on suicidal thoughts over a short period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who present to emergency departments with severe suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or those with contraindications to ketamine, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a fast-acting treatment option for individuals at high risk of suicide, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that ketamine can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts, indicating a promising avenue for treatment, although this specific approach in emergency settings is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grunebaum, Michael F — New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
- Study coordinator: Grunebaum, Michael F
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.