Retrospective data analysis to determine the effectiveness of intravenous ketamine therapy on patients suffering from depression with suicidal ideation.

BACKGROUND

Depression is often a debilitating and recurrent psychiatric disorder. Depression with suicidal ideation, being a psychiatric emergency, often needs intensive intervention such as Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT). ECT may be refused because of stigma and perceived risk. Intravenous ketamine therapy, being an alternative to ECT for quick response compared to routine pharmaco-therapy, is analyzed to determine its effectiveness.

METHODS

Among patients suffering from depression with suicidal ideation, intravenous ketamine therapy is routinely offered as an alternative to ECT to the needy in the Department of Psychiatry affiliated with a teaching institute. There is a standard operative procedure laid down for ketamine therapy. Baseline and periodical assessment of depression by Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and suicidality by Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale is a part of it. Taking advantage of it, retrospective data analysis was done to determine the effectiveness of the therapy.

RESULT: Significant improvement of depression and suicidality found at all the evaluation points after intravenous ketamine therapy.

CONCLUSION

Intravenous ketamine therapy is an effective alternative to ECT among patients suffering from depression with suicidal ideation.