David says ketamine was a ‘lifesaver’ for his depression. So why are many in Australia missing out?

A lack of commercial incentives to get the drug approved for treatment-resistant depression means people cannot afford itFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet ourmorning and afternoon news emails,free app ordaily news podcastAfter being abused as a child, David spent decades searching for a treatment for his depression and anxiety. Like many people with treatment-resistant depression, he was cycled by psychiatrists through a variety of drugs and therapies, but David – who asked for only his first name to be used – said he remained “debilitated”.Then in October 2021, at age 64, he began a fortnightly ketamine treatment – and it proved to be a “lifesaver”.Continue reading...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Health Australia news Pharmaceuticals industry Drugs Depression Mental health Medical research Neuroscience Source Type: news