(S)-norketamine

(S)-norketamine, also known as S-norketamine or (S)-(+)-norketamine, is a small molecule and the major active metabolite of the antidepressant (S)-ketamine (esketamine). It functions as a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist and a potent antagonist of the alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (alpha7-nAChR). The compound is being investigated as a potential antidepressant with a potentially more favorable safety profile compared to ketamine, specifically regarding dissociative and psychotomimetic side effects. It is primarily formed in the body through the N-demethylation of (S)-ketamine by the cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2B6. Clinical trials for (S)-norketamine in the treatment of major depressive disorder and depression have been sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Additionally, it has demonstrated analgesic effects in preclinical models of pain.

Other names

S-norketamine(S)-(+)-norketamineesnorketamine