Using ketamine to quickly reduce suicide risk in young people who have attempted suicide
Official title: Ketamine Treatment of Youth Suicide Attempters for Fast Reduction of Severe Suicide Risk and Facilitation of Long-term Collaborative Clinical Engagement: A Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-10471430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well ketamine can help young people aged 15-24 who have recently tried to take their own life, by giving them either ketamine or a placebo while they're in the hospital, along with therapy sessions to help manage their feelings, to see if it can reduce their suicidal thoughts and improve their mental health over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $623,008 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH125214-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10471430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are youth aged 15-24 who have recently attempted suicide.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of suicide attempts or are outside the age range of 15-24 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of ketamine, a medication known for its rapid anti-suicidal effects, in young individuals aged 15-24 who have recently attempted suicide. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either ketamine or a placebo while hospitalized, followed by up to six additional treatments based on their response. Alongside the medication, patients will engage in weekly therapeutic sessions aimed at managing suicidal thoughts. The goal is to assess both the immediate and long-term effectiveness of ketamine in reducing suicidal ideation and improving overall mental health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a fast-acting treatment option for young individuals at high risk of suicide, potentially saving lives.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results for ketamine in treating suicidal ideation, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
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Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Falcone, Tatiana — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Falcone, Tatiana
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Ketamine and brain chemistry in preventing suicide in high-risk depression
A large study will explore how ketamine affects brain chemistry and daily stress responses to help prevent suicide in people with severe depression.
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Fast-acting ketamine to reduce suicidal thoughts in teens and young adults and improve follow-up care
A short course of ketamine is being given to teens and young adults who recently attempted suicide to see whether it quickly lowers suicidal thoughts and helps them stay engaged in care.
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Understanding Invisible Suicide Risks in Youth: A National Study in Guyana
A nationwide study in Guyana aims to learn about hidden factors that contribute to suicide risk among young people so we can prevent tragedy.
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A digital, text-based safety planning program for young adults (ages 18–24) to help prevent suicide and stay connected to support.
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Ketamine to boost fear extinction and memory on PTSD patients
A study testing whether ketamine can help people with PTSD better relearn and forget fear when given in a guided treatment plan.
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Automated self-acceptance training plus ketamine to extend antidepressant benefits
A study tests whether adding a quick computerized self-positivity training after ketamine can prolong relief from depression for people seeking ketamine treatment.
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.