RAVE drug ketamine could work better than antidepressants in tackling the blues, a study found.
Scientists say the powerful anaesthetic, which causes hallucinations, was more likely than a standard medication to completely lift depression.
A study has found that ketamine – which is illegal to take recreationally – was more likely than a standard medication to completely lift depressionGetty
It adds to evidence that psychedelic drugs, such as MDMA and psilocybin from magic mushrooms, can treat mental health conditions.
In the 32-week study, 336 people were treated with an antidepressant and a nasal spray containing esketamine, one of two types of ketamine.
Another 340 patients were given an antidepressant and quetiapine, a mood disorder drug.
The esketamine group were 1.5 times more likely to be depression-free by the end.
Prof Andreas Reif, of Goethe University in Frankfurt, Germany, said: “The results are very positive.”
Health watchdogs rejected esketamine for NHS use last year.
Psychiatrist Prof Rupert McShane said: “When antidepressants do not work, esketamine nasal spray would be a useful alternative.”
Class B drug ketamine is illegal to use recreationally and is dangerous unless prescribed by a medical professional in controlled circumstances.