Ketamine shows promise for bipolar depression in new trial

NCT ID NCT05004896

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Joshua Rosenblat Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This phase 2 trial tested four intravenous ketamine infusions over two weeks in 71 adults with treatment-resistant bipolar depression. Participants received either ketamine or a sedative (midazolam) to see if ketamine could quickly reduce depression symptoms. The study measured changes in depression scores, safety, and how long any benefits lasted.

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
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a fast-acting treatment option for people with bipolar depression who haven't responded to other therapies.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 71 participants. The effects may be short-lived, and ketamine can cause side effects like dissociation or nausea. It's not yet proven as a standard treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar depression bipolar disorder bipolar I disorder bipolar II disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

BIPOLAR DEPRESSION BIPOLAR DISORDER BIPOLAR I DISORDER BIPOLAR II DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences

Whitby, Ontario, L1N 5S9, Canada
Toronto General Hospital

Toronto, Ontario, M5G 2C4, Canada
Toronto Western Hospital

Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada

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