Researchers have been fascinated by ketamine’s ability to alter consciousness and its potential therapeutic uses, particularly in treating mood disorders. A recent study published in Translational Psychiatry adds a new layer to this understanding by investigating how ketamine impacts brain function.
Using portable electroencephalography (EEG), the researchers found that ketamine induces changes in brain dynamics, specifically increasing redundancy (repetitive patterns of information) in the alpha frequency band. This is linked to shifts in consciousness and dissociative experiences.
The study included 30 healthy male participants who underwent a double-blinded cross-over design using portable EEG. Participants were given either ketamine or a placebo while resting with their eyes closed, followed by an auditory oddball task. Subjective experiences were assessed through questionnaires.
Results showed that ketamine increased redundancy in brain activity during the resting state, particularly in the alpha frequency band. This effect was most pronounced when participants were resting with their eyes closed. The study also found that performing a task reduced the effects of ketamine on brain activity.
Interestingly, changes in brain dynamics during ketamine administration were associated with subjective feelings of derealization. An increase in redundancy in the theta frequency band correlated with higher reports of derealization.
The researchers highlighted three main takeaways from the study: (1) Ketamine induces more redundant brain activity, meaning the same signal is repeated in the brain. (2) Performing a task during the effects of ketamine reduces its impact on brain activity. (3) Portable EEG devices can track changes in states of consciousness.
While the study had some limitations, including a small sample size and only including healthy men, it provides valuable insights into the effects of ketamine on brain function. Future studies could explore the effects of ketamine in women or individuals with psychiatric disorders, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Source: https://www.psypost.org/neuroscientists-just-discovered-a-weird-effect-on-ketamine-on-the-brain/