The Use of Ketamine for the Treatment of Anhedonia in Depression.
Liliana Patarroyo-Rodriguez, Stefanie Cavalcanti, Jennifer L. Vande Voort, Balwinder Singh
CNS Drugs August 1, 2024 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01099-8 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Ketamine |
| Topics | Depression Esketamine Ketamine |
| Keywords | Ketamine therapy Mental health Anhedonia |
| Citations | 13 |
| Key findings | Ketamine appears to have antianhedonic effects that are independent of its antidepressant properties, though the mechanism is not fully understood. |
Abstract
Anhedonia, a complex symptom rooted in deficits across reward processes, is primarily linked to depression and schizophrenia but transcends diagnostic boundaries across various mental disorders. Its presence correlates with poorer clinical outcomes, including an increased risk of suicide and diminished response to treatment. The neurobiological underpinnings of anhedonia remain incompletely understood despite advancements in biomarkers and imaging that contribute to deeper insights. Ketamine, known for its rapid-acting antidepressant properties, appears to possess antianhedonic effects through a mechanism of action not fully elucidated. This effect appears to be independent of its antidepressant properties. Explorations into alternative antianhedonic treatments have been underway, yet lingering questions persist, underscoring the imperative need for ongoing research to advance the field.