Exploring the Therapeutic Effects and Neurobiological Mechanisms of Ketamine in Problematic Gambling: A Mechanistic Study
Abstract
This mechanistic study aims to investigate the potential therapeutic effects of ketamine, an NMDA-receptor antagonist, on gambling cue reactivity, cognitive distortions, and craving in individuals at risk for gambling disorder. The study also explores the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the cognitive and therapeutic effects of ketamine, specifically focusing on enhanced long-term potentiation (LTP) as measured through visual evoked potentials using electroencephalogram (EEG). A total of 39 participants were recruited, with 23 participants included in the EEG sub-arm. Participants were randomised into two groups, receiving either ketamine or placebo following a memory reactivation procedure involving exposure to gambling cues. Cue reactivity, cognitive distortions, and gambling severity were assessed at baseline and in three follow-up sessions. Additionally, arterialised blood samples were collected to measure plasma levels of ketamine and its metabolites. EEG recordings comprised a visual LTP task conducted at baseline and post-administration. The results from this study will contribute to the understanding of the potential therapeutic benefits of ketamine for gambling disorder and further elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms underlying its effects.
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