To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ketamine in treating substance use disorder (SUD).
Approach:
Methodology: Systematic search of multiple databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ketamine for SUD treatment, focusing on abstinence rates, adverse events, and dropout rates.
Data Analysis: Meta-analysis conducted using a random-effects model.
Key Findings:
Fifteen RCTs with 798 participants were included.
Ketamine significantly improved abstinence rates at less than 1 month (OR = 3.27, 95% CI: 1.55–6.92, p < 0.01).
No significant improvement in abstinence rates was observed at 1–6 months (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 0.91–3.30, p = 0.09).
No significant difference in dropout rates between ketamine and control groups (OR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.46–1.21, p = 0.23).
Limited evidence on adverse events, insufficient to establish safety.
Interpretation:
The evidence for ketamine's efficacy and safety in treating SUD is limited and insufficient for conclusive statements.
Limitations:
Limited number of RCTs contributing to abstinence data.
Insufficient evidence regarding safety and adverse events.
Conclusion:
Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of ketamine for SUD.
