Description
How It Works
Ketamine acts mainly through NMDA receptor antagonism, leading to:
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Analgesia (pain relief)
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Sedation and dissociation
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Reduced awareness of external stimuli
It also influences glutamate and opioid pathways, contributing to its anesthetic and antidepressant effects.
Onset & Duration (IV/IM clinical ranges)
| Effect | Typical Timing |
|---|---|
| Onset | ~30 seconds IV / ~3–5 mins IM |
| Peak | Within minutes |
| Duration | 10–30 minutes for anesthesia phase (longer perceptual effects possible) |
Who Administers It
Ketamine should only be used by:
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Anesthesiologists
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Critical-care providers
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Emergency physicians
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Certified medical providers trained in anesthesia and airway management
Safety Notes
Medical monitoring is required due to possible effects on:
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Blood pressure and heart rate
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Breathing pattern and airway reflexes
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Perception and cognition
Precautions
Caution in patients with:
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Cardiovascular disease
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Increased intracranial pressure
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History of psychosis
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Substance-dependence risk factors
Avoid combining with:
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Alcohol
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Sedative-hypnotics
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Benzodiazepines (unless medically directed)
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Opioids (unless part of controlled anesthesia plan)
Side Effects (clinical)
Possible effects include:
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Elevated blood pressure or heart rate
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Nausea or vomiting
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Dissociation / vivid dreams
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Dizziness or confusion post-procedure
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Rare emergence reactions (hallucinations, agitation)
Medical teams often provide supportive care or adjunct medications as needed.


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