Oral ketamine for the rapid treatment of depression and anxiety in patients receiving hospice care

Abstract

Depression is prevalent and undertreated in patients receiving hospice care. Standard antidepressants do not work rapidly or often enough to benefit most of these patients. Here, two cases are reported in which a single oral dose of ketamine provided rapid and moderately sustained symptom relief for both depression and anxiety. In addition, no adverse effects were noted. Further investigation with randomized, controlled clinical trials is necessary to firmly establish the effectiveness of oral ketamine for the treatment of depression and anxiety in patients receiving hospice care. Ketamine may be a promising safe, effective, and cost-effective rapid treatment for depression and anxiety in this population.

Figures

FIG. 1.

Rating Scales for Case 1: (A) 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores indicating a decrease in depressive and anxiety symptoms and (B) Adverse Symptom Checklist and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores indicating an improvement in what would be considered unwanted symptoms or adverse effects.

FIG. 2.

Rating Scales for Case 2: (A) 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale scores indicating a decrease in depressive and anxiety symptoms and (B) Adverse Symptom Checklist and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores indicating an improvement in what would be considered unwanted symptoms or adverse effects.