USF-LVHN SELECT
The role of ketamine and its enantiomer in managing depression and pain in cancer patients: A narrative review.
Publication/Presentation Date
12-1-2024
Abstract
Depression and pain are common comorbidities in cancer patients, and ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, has shown potential in managing both. This review summarizes current literature on ketamine and its enantiomer, esketamine, in managing depression and pain in the oncologic population. Studies indicate that sub-anesthetic doses of intravenous ketamine and esketamine can alleviate postoperative depressive symptoms in cancer patients with a tolerable safety profile. Research into non-intravenous routes for depression management in the oncologic population remains limited. Ketamine has also proven effective in managing acute postoperative pain, particularly through intravenous administration. While alternative administration routes, such as local infiltration and intramuscular methods, show mixed results, they may provide viable options for patients averse to intravenous (IV). However, the effectiveness of ketamine for chronic cancer pain remains inconsistent. Overall, ketamine offers a promising approach for managing depression and pain in oncologic patients.
Volume
3
Issue
4
First Page
155
Last Page
165
ISSN
2957-3912
Published In/Presented At
Bodnar, M. S., Barber, S., Jim, H. S. L., & Huang, J. (2024). The role of ketamine and its enantiomer in managing depression and pain in cancer patients: A narrative review. Journal of anesthesia and translational medicine, 3(4), 155–165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jatmed.2024.10.005
Disciplines
Medical Education | Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
39872209
Department(s)
USF-LVHN SELECT Program, USF-LVHN SELECT Program Students
Document Type
Article
