USO DA CETAMINA COMO ESCOLHA NO TRATAMENTO EM ADULTOS E IDOSOS COM DEPRESSÃO RESISTENTE AO TRATAMENTO

Introduction: Increasingly, there has been a rise in the diagnosis of depressive disorders among the elderly, making this issue alarming as it directly affects their quality of life and functional capacity. In addition to these aspects, this situation increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. Antidepressants, either alone or in combination with other medications, can be used to treat this type of depressive disorder. Currently, there are several classes of antidepressants available, but in the case of patients with mood disorders, the response to common antidepressants may be unsatisfactory. Studies indicate that a relevant alternative for treating resistant depression (RD) is the use of ketamine. Objective: To gather and analyze information on the pharmacological approach of ketamine in the treatment of resistant depression in the elderly. Methodology: Articles published in indexed journals in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO), National Library of Medicine/NLM (MEDLINE), and National Library of Medicine/NLM (PUBMED) databases were evaluated, in addition to official sites such as the Ministry of Health of Brazil and the World Health Organization, covering the period from 2014 to 2024. Results: After completing the data collection phase, 29 relevant articles were identified for analysis of the proposed theme. Discussion: Based on the results obtained and the objectives of this review, it is possible to highlight the most relevant aspects of the topic in question. Thus, a positive response to treatment-resistant depression (TRD) was observed in patients treated with ketamine. Conclusion: The use of ketamine in patients with depressive disorders demonstrates rapid and lasting antidepressant effects, making it a viable treatment alternative.