Ketamine shows promise for Post-Surgery depression in small trial

NCT ID NCT06060210

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a single dose of ketamine, given during spinal surgery, can reduce depressive symptoms afterward. 110 adults with moderate to severe depression received either ketamine or a saltwater placebo. The goal was to see if ketamine could lower depression scores by more than half within a week. The trial is complete, and results may show whether ketamine is a safe and effective option for managing post-surgery mood.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

ketamine

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple way to reduce depression after surgery, improving recovery and quality of life.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed Phase 4 trial. The results may not apply to all surgeries or depression types, and ketamine can cause side effects like high blood pressure or hallucinations.

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.

anxiety disorder Depression mixed anxiety and depressive disorder pseudotumor cerebri

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Banha faculity of medicine

    Banhā, Elqalyoubea, 13511, Egypt