A groundbreaking pilot study from the University of Washington School of Medicine has revealed a potential game-changer in the fight against fentanyl addiction. The study, published in the medical journal *Addiction Science & Clinical Practice*, found that a low dosage of ketamine can significantly reduce or even eliminate withdrawal symptoms associated with fentanyl addiction.
Led by Dr. Lucinda Grande, the research team administered a 16-milligram dose of ketamine to 37 patients over 14 months. Of the 24 patients who participated in the treatment, a remarkable 16 successfully transitioned to buprenorphine treatment, a widely used therapy for opioid addiction. The study found that an impressive 92% of the last 12 patients remained in treatment for at least 30 days.
Patients reported a substantial reduction in withdrawal symptoms after each ketamine dose, with the effects lasting for several hours. Dr. Tom Hutch, a co-author of the study, highlighted the potential for ketamine to act as a vital “bridge” for patients who are unable to immediately start treatments like buprenorphine or methadone due to the severity of their withdrawal symptoms.
It’s important to note that the dosage of ketamine used in this study was significantly lower than the doses used for anesthesia and even less than half the smallest dose prescribed for depression treatment, a growing use of the drug.
The positive potential of ketamine has been overshadowed by recent public attention surrounding the tragic death of actor Matthew Perry, who overdosed on high-dose ketamine treatment for depression. However, Dr. Grande emphasizes that this study underscores the immense potential of ketamine to address critical health concerns like depression, chronic pain, and now, fentanyl use disorder. She hopes that the findings of this pilot study will be validated by larger, more comprehensive studies.
“I’m excited about these results,” Dr. Grande said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to save lives.” The research suggests a promising new avenue for tackling the opioid crisis, potentially offering hope to countless individuals struggling with fentanyl addiction.
