Glutamate Imaging and Cognitive Testing for Depression
Trial Summary
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial requires participants to be medication-free for at least 2 weeks or to be on a permissible medication. The protocol does not specify which medications are permissible, so you may need to discuss your current medications with the study team.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires participants to be medication-free for at least 2 weeks or to be taking a permissible medication. You may need to stop taking your current medications if they are not allowed in the study.
What data supports the idea that Glutamate Imaging and Cognitive Testing for Depression is an effective drug?
The available research shows that ketamine, a drug used in Glutamate Imaging and Cognitive Testing for Depression, can rapidly reduce symptoms in people with severe depression who haven't responded to other treatments. Studies have found that ketamine can quickly improve mood and decrease suicidal thoughts. For example, one study showed that ketamine led to changes in brain areas related to mood and reward, which are important for feeling better. Another study found that ketamine increased certain brain chemicals linked to feeling less depressed. These findings suggest that ketamine can be an effective option for people with treatment-resistant depression.12345
What data supports the effectiveness of this drug for depression?
Research shows that ketamine, a component of the treatment, can rapidly reduce symptoms of depression, especially in patients who haven't responded to other treatments. Studies using brain imaging techniques have found that ketamine may enhance brain plasticity (the brain's ability to change and adapt) and alter brain activity in ways that are linked to its antidepressant effects.12345
What safety data exists for ketamine treatment in depression?
Ketamine has been shown to be safe in short-term use for depression, with rapid antidepressant effects demonstrated in several studies. However, its long-term safety profile is not well-established. Known side effects include psychiatric, cardiovascular, neurologic, and genitourinary effects, as well as potential for abuse. While ketamine is safe in sub-anesthetic doses administered once or a few times, prolonged use safety data is lacking.35678
Is ketamine safe for use in humans?
Is the drug Ketamine, used with MRI and PET scans, a promising treatment for depression?
Yes, Ketamine is a promising drug for treating depression, especially for those who don't respond to traditional treatments. It works quickly and can help understand how depression affects the brain. MRI and PET scans can help doctors see how Ketamine changes brain activity, which can improve treatment strategies.19101112
How does this treatment for depression differ from other treatments?
This treatment is unique because it uses imaging techniques like MRI and PET to study brain changes and involves ketamine, a drug that acts on the glutamate system, offering rapid relief for treatment-resistant depression, unlike traditional antidepressants that target serotonin or norepinephrine.19101112
What is the purpose of this trial?
This research study is designed to look at the involvement of the glutamate system in depression. Each subject will undergo a screening appointment to determine study eligibility. Thereafter, the study will take 2 or 3 visits depending on schedule availability and will consist of one MRI scan, and PET scan. Subjects will also participate in cognitive testing. Depending on camera time, staff availability and subject schedule, total study participation may last 1-2 months.
Research Team
Irina Esterlis, PhD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with certain psychiatric conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. It's also open to healthy individuals without any DSM-5 diagnosis. Participants must be English-speaking and medication-free or on approved meds for at least two weeks.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Imaging and Testing
Participants undergo MRI and PET scans, and participate in cognitive testing
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after imaging and testing
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Cognitive Testing
- MRI
- PET
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Yale University
Lead Sponsor
VA Office of Research and Development
Collaborator