Rapastinel IS the first novel antidepressant in 50 years, and while it is limited to IV administration this isn't anything unusual. On the heels of Rapastinel is NRX-1074, a hyper-potent version of Rapastinel but in oral formulation. As far as I've noticed, it's been Rapastinel the whole time that captured the anticipatory excitement of those suffering from intractable chronic MDD. And yes, the genesis seems clearly connected to Ketamine off-label therapeutic treatment provided by quite a few clinics, some run by anesthesiologist and some just pain Infusion clinics who've expanded their scope of treatment. So there seems to be a fair amount of anecdotal impotus and then Naurex quick R&D bringing us this legitimate candidate that could become a miracle drug.
Is commonplace for an IV version to lead the R&D as this formulation would naturally lead the introduction into the market starting with severe cases which would benefit from an IV formulation best for a variety of reasons. But don't fret, the oral version is next in line.
As for commonplace and distant future, I'm sorry that you're feeling so discouraged. Actually right now is arguably one of the most promising times in the exploration of new and promising treatments for depression. Starting with Rapastinel, given the genesis being the action of Ketamine, but more specifically focusing on Glutamate affinity and modulation of the NMDA and AMPA receptors. I believe this area of focus is certainly one of great potential as more R&D teams join in focus.
But there's more actually, here's 20 interesting candidates that aren't just reimagined SSRIs, SNRIs or SSREs.
http://mentalhealthd...linical-trials/
The k opioid receptor affinity route HAS been around for a while already actually, but not in America. Ironically, it shows up on the top of the recently popular list of "smart drugs" called Nootropics, Tianeptine. People seem to love this drug, it brightens cognition and causes a sense of well being. However, the k-opioid affinity also comes with dependence since the brain treats this action like it would most any opiate.
The anti-depressant action comes from a somewhat rare serotonin modulation by ENHANCING the quantity of the neurotransmitter rather than inhibiting reuptake. But still, just another SSRX. Tianeptine doors have one unique quality that is indeed new however, it is neurogenetic. Alas it isn't available in America though.
Twenty new antidepressant candidates to watch:
It seems that nsi-189 is the one that most people are talking/excited about? It that right, or is there an anti-depressant to end all anti-depressants on the horizon soon?
Rapastinel was recently fast-tracked by the FDA and works in a manner similar to Ketamine. I think it's only injectable though.
I was really holding out for ALKS-5461, which was also fast-tracked, but it's probably history now that it failed 2 phase III trials.
i really think ssris and antipsychotics will continue to be commonplace, not counting the distant future. It's pretty dismaying considering there's been no significant advances in psychiatry for like... 50 years?
