Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting over 300 million people. In India, millions likely live with untreated or undiagnosed depression, which increases risks of lost productivity, poor physical health and suicide. Its scale makes better treatments a public‑health priority.
Current care relies on therapy and daily antidepressant pills (SSRIs, SNRIs), which help many but take weeks to work and fail for a sizable “treatment‑resistant” group. Barriers like cost, access and stigma mean many who need care remain undertreated or untreated.
New rapid options — clinic‑administered ketamine and experimental psychedelics—can relieve symptoms within days and sometimes last months after one session. The 5‑MeO‑DMT nasal spray Lilly bought showed quick benefit in early trials but is in Phase‑3; safety, durability and wider availability still await regulatory approval.
Lilly’s up‑to‑$3.8B deal reflects belief these therapies could become a new, profitable category competing with ketamine products. It’s a high‑reward, high‑risk move: if late‑stage trials and regulators confirm safety and lasting benefit, it could transform care; if not, it may be an expensive failure.
A ONE‑VISIT THERAPY COULD CHANGE LIVES—BUT SCIENCE MUST PROVE IT FIRST.
Sanjay Sahay
Have a nice evening.