New Drug Offering Hope for Treatment-Resistant Depression Advances to Final Stage
A novel slow-release ketamine medication developed by Otago University’s Professor Paul Glue is a finalist in this year’s KiwiNet Awards, offering potential relief for the significant number of New Zealanders who don’t respond to conventional depression treatments.
Approximately one in four New Zealanders will experience anxiety or a depressive disorder during their lifetime, and at least 30% of those individuals find little to no benefit from standard therapies. Professor Glue’s research focuses on addressing this critical gap in mental healthcare. The new drug aims to provide a more sustained and controlled release of ketamine, potentially minimizing side effects and maximizing therapeutic benefits.
Clinical trials are currently underway, and the approval process has begun, with Professor Glue optimistic about bringing the medication to market within the next three years. This development is particularly important given the rising rates of mental health challenges globally and the limited effectiveness of existing treatments for a substantial patient population. Further research into innovative treatments like this is vital; you can learn more about mental health resources in New Zealand on the Mental Health Foundation website.
The KiwiNet Awards recognize the commercialization of research, highlighting innovations with the potential for significant impact. Professor Glue’s work represents not one, but two groundbreaking discoveries in the field, according to reports. Otago University continues to be a leading institution in medical research.
Professor Glue and his team are now focused on completing the clinical trial phases and securing the necessary regulatory approvals to make the medication available to patients.
