Surprising drug combo could reshape treatment for suicide risk
Yahoo • • health
Key Points:
- A new study presented at the American Psychiatric Association’s annual meeting found that a combination of a single ketamine infusion followed by low-dose buprenorphine significantly sustained reductions in suicidal thoughts in adults with major depressive disorder.
- The study involved 50 patients and showed rapid relief from suicidal ideation, though both treatment and placebo groups experienced similar reductions in depressive symptoms.
- Experts urge caution, noting the study’s short duration and reliance on questionnaire-based endpoints, emphasizing the need for further research on real-world outcomes and long-term effects.
- Ketamine, traditionally an anesthetic and party drug, has recently been used off-label for depression and suicidal thoughts, while buprenorphine is primarily known for treating opioid addiction and pain.
- Researchers believe the treatment offers a potentially scalable and safe option for suicide prevention, but acknowledge some rebound in symptoms after treatment ends and call for continued investigation.