Using ketamine to quickly reduce suicide risk and improve mental health
Effectiveness of a Synergistic, Neuroplasticity-Based intervention for Rapid and Durable Suicide Risk Reduction
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10684238
This study is looking at how intravenous ketamine can help people who are at high risk of suicide by quickly reducing their suicidal thoughts and improving their thinking skills, while also checking how safe and effective it is when used alongside regular mental health care and brain training techniques.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10684238 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of intravenous ketamine, known for its rapid antidepressant effects, to reduce suicidal thoughts and enhance cognitive flexibility in individuals at imminent risk of suicide. The study aims to assess the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of ketamine in real-world settings, while also exploring how it can be combined with standard psychiatric care and automated cognitive training techniques. By enhancing neuroplasticity, the research seeks to create a lasting impact on mental health and prevent rebound suicidal ideation after treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing severe suicidal thoughts or behaviors who may benefit from rapid intervention.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently experiencing suicidal ideation or those with contraindications to ketamine treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for individuals at high risk of suicide, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with ketamine for rapid antidepressant effects, suggesting that this approach may build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PRICE, REBECCA — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: PRICE, REBECCA
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.