Single infusion of controversial drug changed severe depression symptoms within hours, study finds
A recent study indicates that a single intravenous infusion of ketamine can rapidly alleviate symptoms of severe depression. The review analyzed 26 clinical trials involving over 1,100 patients, showing significant improvements in depressive symptoms within hours. While ketamine can be effective, it also carries risks of misuse and temporary side effects.
- ▪Researchers reviewed 26 clinical trials with more than 1,100 patients to assess ketamine's effects on depression.
- ▪A single treatment significantly reduced depression in just four hours and lowered suicidal thoughts within 24 hours.
- ▪Patients reported fewer depressive symptoms after a week and reduced suicidal thoughts for up to a month after one ketamine infusion.
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Health Single infusion of controversial drug changed severe depression symptoms within hours, study finds Researchers reviewed 26 clinical trials with more than 1,100 patients to assess ketamine's effects on depression By Shiv Sudhakar Fox News Published May 29, 2026 7:00am EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Dr. Marc Siegel: Medical, recreational Ketamine use on the rise Fox News senior medical analyst Dr. Marc Siegel joins 'Fox & Friends' to discuss the benefits and risks of ketamine use. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! People experiencing severe depression with suicidal symptoms may not have to wait weeks for traditional antidepressants to take effect.
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