Clinical Report: Esketamine's Role in Treating Functional Neurological Disorder
Overview
This comprehensive review evaluates the use of esketamine in treating functional neurological disorder (FND). The evidence base is limited and heterogeneous, necessitating further research.
Background
Functional neurological disorder (FND) presents significant clinical challenges due to its disabling nature and variable treatment outcomes. Current management strategies often yield inconsistent results, particularly in chronic cases with psychiatric comorbidities. The use of esketamine as a treatment has been reported in some studies, reflecting interest in pharmacological interventions for this complex condition.
Data Highlights
Thirteen studies were identified, primarily case reports and small series, reporting variable improvements in functional symptoms following (Es)ketamine administration.
Key Findings
Thirteen studies were reviewed, mostly case reports and small series.
Some patients experienced improvement in functional motor symptoms and dissociative seizures after (Es)ketamine administration.
The evidence base is characterized by uncontrolled studies and significant clinical heterogeneity.
Adverse effects were reported as transient in supervised settings.
Improvements may not directly correlate to (Es)ketamine effects but could arise from psychiatric benefits or other factors.
Clinical Implications
The current evidence does not support the routine use of (Es)ketamine for FND due to its limited and heterogeneous nature.
Conclusion
Further investigation through prospective controlled trials is necessary to clarify the role of (Es)ketamine in treating functional neurological disorder.
