Can ketamine stop teen suicidal urges in days?

NCT ID NCT04592809

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

Summary

This study tested whether ketamine, a fast-acting drug, can reduce suicidal thoughts in teenagers more quickly than standard treatments. Fifty teens aged 13-18 who had recent suicidal events received either ketamine or midazolam twice weekly for two weeks, then were monitored for 12 weeks. The goal was to see if ketamine could prevent further suicidal crises.

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 to reduce suicidal thoughts in teenagers.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase trial with only 50 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Ketamine can cause side effects like dizziness or dissociation.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder Suicidal Ideation Suicide Suicide, Attempted

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UT Southwestern Medical Center

    Dallas, Texas, 75235, United States

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