Effect of a Sub-Anesthetic Infusion of Ketamine on Laboratory-Induced Stress in Healthy Volunteers: A Proof-Of-Concept Translational Study

Stress exposure is a key risk factor for the development of major depressive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder. Enhancing stress resilience in at-risk populations could potentially protect against stress-induced disorders. The administration of ketamine one week prior to an acute stressor prevents the development of stress-induced depressive-like behavior in rodents. This study aimed to test if the stress prophylactic effect of ketamine applies also to humans.