Can ketamine quickly quiet suicidal thoughts? new brain scan study aims to find out

NCT ID NCT06891300

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether four intravenous ketamine infusions over two weeks can reduce suicidal thoughts in 36 adults with major depression. Participants will also have two MRI brain scans to see if changes in brain structure relate to symptom improvement. The goal is to both treat suicidal ideation and understand the biological mechanisms behind it.

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 successful, this could point toward a fast-acting treatment for suicidal thoughts in depression and help explain how ketamine changes the brain.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study with only 36 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Ketamine can cause side effects like dissociation or nausea, and the effect on suicidal thoughts may not last.

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.

major depressive disorder Suicidal Ideation

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER (MDD) SUICIDAL IDEATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre
RECRUITING

Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z7K4, Canada

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