Ketamine Assisted Therapy for Alcoholism: Potential and Questions

Largest ever trial to investigate the role of ketamine in alcohol treatment

Ketamine, a drug commonly used as an anesthetic, has shown promise as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD).

New Phase III trial

The latest trial, funded by Awakn Life Sciences and the University of Exeter, is the largest ever to investigate the effectiveness of ketamine-assisted therapy for AUD. The trial will involve over 200 participants across seven NHS sites in the UK.

Participants will receive either ketamine-assisted therapy or a placebo in combination with traditional addiction treatment. The trial will assess the effectiveness of ketamine in reducing alcohol consumption and improving overall outcomes.

Ketamine's mechanism of action

Ketamine is thought to work by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain. These receptors are involved in a variety of processes, including pain perception, mood regulation, and addiction.

By blocking NMDA receptors, ketamine may help to reduce cravings for alcohol and improve mood, making it easier for individuals to abstain from drinking.

Promising early findings

Initial findings from a phase II trial published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry showed that ketamine-assisted therapy was effective in reducing alcohol consumption and improving symptoms of depression in individuals with AUD.

The new phase III trial will further investigate the effectiveness of ketamine-assisted therapy and provide more definitive evidence of its potential role in the treatment of AUD.

Limitations of ketamine therapy

Ketamine therapy is not without its limitations. The drug can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and hallucinations.

Additionally, the effects of ketamine are typically short-lived, and repeated treatments may be necessary to maintain effectiveness.

Conclusion

Ketamine-assisted therapy shows promise as a potential new treatment for AUD. The results of the phase III trial will provide further insights into the effectiveness and safety of this approach.

If proven effective, ketamine-assisted therapy could offer a valuable new tool for the treatment of AUD, helping individuals to achieve long-term sobriety.

Additional Resources

• Ketamine-Assisted Therapy for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial
• Awakn Life Sciences
• University of Exeter