Treatment and management approaches for ketamine misuse: A systematic review of medical interventions.
Alessio Mosca, Stefania Chiappini, Andrea Miuli et al.
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From the abstract
Ketamine, initially developed as an anesthetic and now increasingly prescribed for treatment-resistant depression, is also widely misused in recreational contexts. Chronic ketamine use, often leading to dependence, has been associated with severe physical complications, including ulcerative cystitis and gastrointestinal dysfunction, as well as cognitive, affective, and…
Reported results
From 3183 records screened, 73 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 5 controlled clinical studies, 15 observational studies, 15 case series, and 38 case reports. Findings highlighted that management of ketamine misuse is heterogeneous and often based on evidence taken from either case reports or small series.
Authors' conclusions
Current management of ketamine misuse relies mainly on supportive care, psychotherapy, and off-label pharmacological options, but robust evidence on efficacy is lacking. There is an urgent need for controlled studies and standardized treatment protocols. Integrated, multidisciplinary, models appear most promising in addressing the complex medical and psychiatric consequences of ketamine misuse.