We may now know how ketamine can treat depression for so long

Health

Ketamine becomes trapped inside certain receptors in the brains of mice – and the longer it is trapped, the longer its antidepressant effects last

By Grace Wade

People with depression might be prescribed ketamine, and we’re closer to understanding how it can help

Chanintorn.v/Shutterstock

A single dose of ketamine can treat depression in people for days to weeks, and we may be closer to understanding why. A study in mice shows the drug can become trapped inside certain receptors in the brain.

Most antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), must be taken daily for one or two weeks before people notice a benefit. A single dose of ketamine, on the other hand, alleviates depressive symptoms within 2 …

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