High hopes & hype for experimental depression drug ketamine

High hopes & hype for experimental depression drug ketamine

Many experts are hopeful because ketamine seems to work much faster than conventional drugs for some patients. But some fear it's being overhyped.AP  |  November 01, 2018, 11:16 IST
Strangely enough, this heart-attack inducing pill was invented during an experiment to prevent heart attacks. In the early 1990s, pharmaceutical giant Pfizer was testing sildenafil as a drug to treat angina (chest pain caused due to restriction of blood vessels). Midway through the trials, they realised that test subjects refused to return the pills because it helped their sex drive. And thus, the infamous little blue pill was born.
Strangely enough, this heart-attack inducing pill was invented during an experiment to prevent heart attacks. In the early 1990s, pharmaceutical giant Pfizer was testing sildenafil as a drug to treat angina (chest pain caused due to restriction of blood vessels). Midway through the trials, they realised that test subjects refused to return the pills because it helped their sex drive. And thus, the infamous little blue pill was born.
CHICAGO: An anesthetic also used as the club drug, Special K, is finding new life as unapproved treatment for severe depression.

Clinics have opened around the U.S. promising nearly instant relief with ketamine.

Many experts are hopeful because ketamine seems to work much faster than conventional drugs for some patients. But some fear it's being overhyped.

Patients are paying thousands of dollars for treatment often not covered by health insurance. Because ketamine's effects wear off, many seek multiple treatments, with uncertainty about long-term benefits and risks.

Ongoing research aims to find answers. With many patients not helped by conventional antidepressants, doctors agree new treatment is needed.