A clinical trial is set to explore the potential benefits of subanesthetic esketamine in combination with modified electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to treat severe depression in adolescents. Principal investigator Min Su has announced this study, which is currently in the planning phase and not yet recruiting participants. This innovative approach seeks to address treatment-resistant depression, which remains a critical challenge for adolescent mental health providers.
In this article:
- What does this trial investigate?
- How does esketamine interact with ECT?
- What is the current status of this study?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion and next steps
- Disclaimer
What does this trial investigate?
This study, sponsored by Min Su, focuses on evaluating the safety and efficacy of subanesthetic doses of esketamine in adolescents undergoing modified ECT for severe cases of depression. The researchers aim to determine whether esketamine can enhance the therapeutic effects of ECT, improve safety, and potentially reduce the duration of treatment required for symptom relief. The primary intervention includes the administration of esketamine injections at a dose of 0.25 mg/kg, compared against a control group receiving saline injections in the same volume.
How does esketamine interact with ECT?
Esketamine, as an NMDA receptor antagonist, has demonstrated rapid antidepressant effects in previous studies, particularly for treatment-resistant depression. By integrating this drug into the modified ECT protocol, researchers hope it will amplify the neuromodulatory benefits of ECT while counteracting some common adverse effects such as cognitive impairment. The modified ECT procedure itself is adjusted for safety and tolerability, making it more applicable to adolescents whose developing brains require careful handling. The combination may offer a synergistic approach, aiming to improve both outcome predictability and patient experience.
What is the current status of this study?
The clinical trial, registered on ClinicalTrials.gov under the identifier NCT07247968, is listed as not yet recruiting as of the release date. This status indicates that preparatory steps, including regulatory approvals and trial site readiness, are likely underway. Recruitment details and eligibility criteria will become available as the study progresses. Researchers and stakeholders are encouraged to monitor updates through the official study registry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the primary focus of this trial?
The study investigates whether esketamine, in subanesthetic doses, can enhance the effects of modified ECT in treating adolescent severe depression. - What is the intervention being tested?
The trial compares esketamine injections (0.25 mg/kg) with saline injections as a control, both administered alongside modified ECT. - When will recruitment begin?
Recruitment is not yet open as of now. Updates can be tracked on the study’s ClinicalTrials.gov entry.
Conclusion and next steps
By investigating the combination of esketamine with modified ECT, this trial represents a significant step towards advancing treatments for adolescent patients with severe depression. While recruitment has not yet begun, the study’s outcomes could yield critical insights into safer and more effective therapeutic strategies. Clinical teams and stakeholders are advised to follow updates on the trial’s progress and related findings.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only, based on publicly available trial data. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. Readers should consult professionals for specific guidance.
For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07247968?term=medical+device