title: Intensive ketamine use for multiple years: A case report.
abstract: Ketamine is known within the medical field for its anesthetic properties, yet its unique psychedelic and antidepressant properties are being increasingly recognized. We document the case of a patient with bipolar I disorder and an extensive history of substance dependence who used large doses of ketamine (1-3 g) on a daily basis over a period of 5 years, and described acute antidepressant effects as well as diminished cravings for alcohol. While his use was untenable and ultimately led to an inpatient admission, it is notable that he did not experience a withdrawal syndrome nor did he have any observable cognitive deficits upon cessation of use. Such a unique drug profile suggests that further exploration of its risks and therapeutic potential in treating mood and addiction disorders is warranted.
authors.affiliation: New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York.
authors.forename: James X
authors.initials: JX
authors.lastname: Liu
authors.forename: Erin
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Zerbo
authors.forename: Stephen
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ross
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000523:psychology; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007649:Ketamine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D012651:Self Medication; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D007649:Ketamine