Can a ketamine shot stop suicidal thoughts in minutes?

NCT ID NCT04640636

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a single injection of ketamine can quickly reduce suicidal thoughts in people with depression who come to the emergency room. About 90 participants will receive either ketamine or a sedative (midazolam) and be monitored for 24 hours. The trial is currently paused due to a research suspension at the study site.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

ketamine hydrochloride injection

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a fast, easy-to-use treatment for suicidal thoughts in emergency rooms.

What could go wrong

The trial is currently suspended due to a research pause, so results are delayed. It is a small, early-phase study, and ketamine may cause side effects like dissociation or increased blood pressure.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar depression bipolar disorder bipolar I disorder bipolar II disorder Depression depressive disorder endogenous depression major depressive disorder Suicidal Ideation

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Department of Columbia University Medical Center

    New York, New York, 10032, United States