Ketamine is currently the rising star of depression research, with limited clinical trials suggesting that it can ease depression's most severe symptoms almost immediately. But, while ketamine’s promise has stirred excitement in some circles, it has also sparked controversy, owing to the drug’s potentially harmful side effects.
ZURICH – According to the World Health Organization, depression affects an estimated 350 million people worldwide, making it one of the most prevalent psychiatric conditions. But only about half of those who try antidepressant drugs respond to them, and those who do may have to wait several weeks or even months before experiencing relief – a critical failing for people at immediate risk of suicide. Fast-acting antidepressants are thus urgently needed.
ZURICH – According to the World Health Organization, depression affects an estimated 350 million people worldwide, making it one of the most prevalent psychiatric conditions. But only about half of those who try antidepressant drugs respond to them, and those who do may have to wait several weeks or even months before experiencing relief – a critical failing for people at immediate risk of suicide. Fast-acting antidepressants are thus urgently needed.