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Research Library

Clinical Trial Summaries — Ketamine Therapy

The trials that built the modern ketamine literature.

Written by: Ira ZootMedical review status: Not yet clinically reviewed.Last updated: June 6, 2026Evidence: Berman 2000; Zarate 2006; Murrough 2013; Daly 2018

This page has been written and edited by the publisher. It has not been reviewed by a licensed clinician.

Quick answer
What were the most important trials?
Berman 2000 was the first controlled trial showing rapid antidepressant effects. Zarate 2006 replicated in treatment-resistant depression. Murrough 2013 extended to a larger TRD sample. The TRANSFORM and SUSTAIN trials supported esketamine's FDA approval.

Foundational

  • Berman 2000 — First small RCT showing rapid antidepressant response.
  • Zarate 2006 — Replicated in TRD; established the rapid-onset profile.
  • Murrough 2013 — Larger TRD sample; midazolam-controlled.

Esketamine pathway

  • TRANSFORM-2 / TRANSFORM-3 — Acute efficacy.
  • SUSTAIN-1 — Maintenance efficacy.

Beyond depression

  • Feder et al. — Ketamine in PTSD.
  • Rodriguez et al. — Ketamine in OCD.
  • Wilkinson et al. — Ketamine and acute suicidal ideation.

Related reading

Educational content only. Not medical advice. Discuss any treatment decisions with a qualified clinician.

About the author
Ira Zoot

Publisher and editor of Ketalux, based in Chicago, Illinois. Ira is a ketamine therapy patient, not a clinician. This is editorial review, not medical review: Ira is not a licensed clinician and does not provide diagnosis or medical care. Ketalux does not accept compensation from providers in exchange for favorable editorial coverage, evidence ratings, recommendations, patient referrals, or organic provider ranking. Read the full publisher disclosure →

Educational use only. The content on this page is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ketamine and related therapies carry risks and are appropriate only under qualified medical supervision. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional about your individual situation. Information may change as research evolves.