Goto et al. (2026)
- Authors: T. Goto, J. D. Kreskow, A. L. R. Ross, L. Saligan
- Institutes: National Institute of Nursing Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA, Rutgers School of Nursing, Newark, NJ, USA, Cizik School of Nursing, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- Publisher: Pharmacology Reports
- Link: DOI
Summary
This study provides preliminary evidence that low-dose ketamine 💊 may rapidly reduce chronic fatigue across various conditions, including ME/CFS and fibromyalgia. Although the small trial size prevented statistical significance, researchers observed a clinically relevant improvement that peaked 24 hours after administration. These results highlight ketamine as a potential candidate for future large-scale fatigue research.
What was researched?
This proof-of-concept study investigated the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine infusions in reducing fatigue levels in patients with various chronic illnesses.
Why was it researched?
Chronic fatigue is a debilitating symptom with limited pharmacological treatments, and ketamine has previously shown rapid anti-fatigue effects in patients with depression.
How was it researched?
Ten participants with chronic fatigue from ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, lupus, or cancer survivorship participated in a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial. They received a single infusion of ketamine and an active comparator, midazolam, two weeks apart.
What has been found?
Fatigue scores in the ketamine group decreased by approximately 21% three days post-infusion, with a peak reduction of nearly 39% after 24 hours. The study did not find a statistically significant difference between ketamine and midazolam due to similar improvements in the control group and the small sample size.
Discussion
Significant carryover effects were noted, meaning the fatigue-reducing effects of the first treatment may have influenced the baseline of the second period. The study is limited by its very small cohort and the use of a crossover design for a drug with potentially long-lasting effects.
Conclusion & Future Work
While the primary efficacy threshold was met for the ketamine group, larger trials with parallel designs are needed to confirm these results. The findings suggest that ketamine might provide rapid, short-term relief for severe fatigue.