Testing a fast-acting medication for depression in critically ill patients

This study is testing whether ketamine, a medication that can work quickly to ease depression, might help people who are very ill and hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs). Depression is common in ICU patients and can make recovery harder. Researchers want to see if this medication is safe and effective for people dealing with depression while they're critically ill.

People in ICUs often develop or experience depression because of their serious illness, pain, and the stress of being hospitalized. This depression can slow their recovery and make it harder to participate in their own care. Doctors need better, faster-acting treatments for depression in this very vulnerable population, which is why researchers are studying this medication.