Exploring the Neuroprotective and Neuropsychiatric Symptom Management Potential of Ketamine in Alzheimer's Disease.
Amy Avakian, Zachary I Merhavy
Cureus June 1, 2025 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.86855 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Narrative review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Depression Ketamine Esketamine |
| Keywords | Alzheimer's disease Alzheimer’s dementia Anesthesia Ketamine alzheimer's Nmda receptor antagonist Ketamine therapeutics: ketamine Treatment Potential Managing New path Alzheimer's dementia Neuropsychiatric symptoms Agitation Management Neuropharmacology: neuropharmacology Modulate brain activity Enhancing synaptic function Reducing inflammation |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key findings | Ketamine shows potential for managing Alzheimer's disease through modulation of glutamatergic transmission, enhancement of synaptic plasticity via BDNF pathways, and attenuation of neuroinflammation, as well as for treating associated neuropsychiatric symptoms like depression and agitation. |
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, synaptic dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. Despite extensive research, current therapeutic options offer limited symptomatic relief without altering disease progression. Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist traditionally used as an anesthetic, has garnered attention for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects and potential neuroprotective properties. This narrative review examines ketamine's emerging role in AD, focusing on its mechanisms of action, including modulation of glutamatergic transmission, enhancement of synaptic plasticity via brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) pathways, and attenuation of neuroinflammatory processes. This paper also explores ketamine's efficacy in managing neuropsychiatric symptoms prevalent in AD, such as depression and agitation. While preliminary findings are promising, further research is necessary to establish ketamine's safety and efficacy in this context.