Naima Guhad Shire , Michael Ioannou , Örjan Falk , Ane Bakken Wold , Caroline Wass , Zoltán Szabó , Steinn Steingrimsson
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background
Ketamine shows promise for treating bipolar depression, particularly in severe cases. However, the optimal administration route and enantiomer (esketamine, arketamine, or racemic mixture) remain unclear. This case series presents data on intravenous (IV) esketamine in bipolar depression, addressing a gap in published literature.
Methods
This retrospective chart review included adult inpatients with bipolar depression treated with multiple IV esketamine infusions. Outcomes were measured using the self-rated Montgomery Åsberg Depression Scale (MADRS-S) and clinician-rated improved Global Clinical Impression Scale-Severity Index (rCGI-S). Tolerability data were also collected.
Results
Thirteen patients received 4–6 IV esketamine infusions over two weeks. Statistically significant improvements were observed in MADRS-S total scores (p = 0.002) and rCGI-S scores (p < 0.001) but not in MADRS-S suicidal thoughts item (p = 0.125). Infusions were generally well-tolerated, with treatment-emergent hypomania in two patients (15.4 %).
Limitations
The retrospective design without a control group limited effectiveness evaluation.
Conclusions
Preliminary results of IV esketamine for bipolar depression are promising, but its role in treatment algorithms requires clarification. Randomized controlled studies are needed to investigate its effectiveness further.