NCT06085937 · Lindsay Maguire, MD
Feasibility and Safety of Ketamine for Suicidal Patients in the Emergency Department
What this study is about
There is currently no readily available pharmacologic intervention for suicidal ideation, a true psychiatric emergency, in the Emergency Department (ED). Investigators aim to trial low-dose, given through a vein (IV) ketamine, a drug with well-established use in treatment-resistant depression, for patients who present to the ED with suicidal ideation.
View original scientific description
There is currently no readily available pharmacologic intervention for suicidal ideation, a true psychiatric emergency, in the Emergency Department (ED). Investigators aim to trial low-dose, intravenous ketamine, a drug with well-established use in treatment-resistant depression, for patients who present to the ED with suicidal ideation.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Acutely Suicidality ("yes" answer to any of items 4 or 5 on C-SSRS "Suicidal Ideation" category)
- Require inpatient stabilization for SI or actions based on clinical observation and interview
- Are accepted for psychiatric stabilization at the University of Kansas Medical Center's Strawberry Hill campus
- Have a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) of 15
Exclusion criteria
- Current or past history of psychosis
- Current or recent (past 4 weeks) symptoms of mania/hypomania as defined by Young Mania Rating Scale (YRMS) score of 12 or greater
- History of ketamine use disorder
- History of liver transplant
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Imprisonment or inability to consent
- Positive urine drug screen or serum alcohol level
- Hypertension (SBP \> 160 or DBP \> 100 before administration of ketamine)
- Hypotension (SBP \< 90)
- Presence of acute medical condition requiring admission to medical service
- Allergy, intolerance, or previous adverse reaction to ketamine
- Patient has 8+ lifetime ketamine exposures
- The treating physician determines that the patient is not a good candidate for the study (e.g. medical condition/procedure, medication that would contradindicate ketamine treatment)
Where
- Kansas City, Kansas
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations