Ketamine is 'magic drug' for depression

Telegraph (UK) ^ | Aug 20, 2010 | Richard Alleyne,

[caveat emptor]

The drug has traditionally been used as an anaesthetic for animals and, in some cases, humans – but has also established itself as a nightclub favourite in recent years, where it is nicknamed Special K.

But studies have found it can treat depression within hours, even when years of alternative treatments have failed.

And the effects of just one dose can last up to 10 days.

[caveat emptor]

It follows a pathway that rapidly forms new synaptic connections between neurons, a process called "synaptogenesis".

Professor Duman hailed the potential of ketamine. He said: "It's like a magic drug — one dose can work rapidly and last for seven to 10 days."

Until now, ketamine's clinical use has been limited by the fact that it has to be injected and can cause hallucinations.....

But it only needs to be used in low doses for depression.

George Aghajanian, co-researcher on the study published in the journal Science also warned that the drug needed further analysis and modification before it could be approved for general use. He said: "The pathway is the story."

[caveat emptor]

Magic bullet, or just another needs-more-study study?

[E. Pluribus Unum]

Ketamine is 'magic drug' for depression

So is LSD.

[Paul46360]

" ketamine's clinical use has been limited by the fact that it has to be injected and can cause hallucinations...."
"Monday starts the weekend" Greg Hahn, comedian and former Marine Officer

[goseminoles]

Yep. Let’s use a date rape drug for a bunch of depressed people. /s

[varyouga]

There is no “magic” drug and all have side effects but all drugs should be allowed to be researched. Meth can destroy most people but was found to save the lives of those with severe brain disorders.

Kudos to the Swiss for allowing research of all drugs even though certain idiots abuse them to “party”. Hopefully we can begin to lift the dark shroud surrounding psychadelic research and begin to truly explore consciousness and the hidden powers of the human mind.

http://topnews.net.nz/content/27414-doctors-say-psychedelic-party-drugs-lsd-could-fight-depression

[caveat emptor]

There is no “magic” drug

In this context "magic" is a façon de parler, (and not to be taken literally) a fairly common expression used that way.

all [drugs] have side effects .

There is no such thing as "side effects". Drugs have effects, some desired, some not. If a "side effect" of some drug is found to be beneficial for some different condition, the previous "side effect" doesn't change; it's the intended use that changes.

[RichInOC]

“All those childhood traumas, magically wiped away...along with most of your personality.”

[Amberdawn]

Yes-Thalidomide can be used to treat some disorders as well, though it’s effects were horrific for pregnant women’s children.