Ketamine (Ketalar)

Question 1

Ketamine Class?

Answer 1

Nonbarbiturate anesthetic

Question 2

Ketamine Action?

Answer 2

Acts on limbic system and cortex to block afferent transmission of impulses associated with pain perception. Produces short term amnesia without muscular relaxation.

Question 3

Ketamine Indications?

Answer 3

Pain, sedation and sometimes used as an adjunct to nitrous oxide

Question 4

Ketamine Contraindications?

Answer 4

Stroke, hypersensitivity, severe hypertension, cardiac instability, caution with schizophrenia

Question 5

Ketamine Onset/Duration?

Answer 5

Onset : 30 seconds

Duration : 5-10 mins up to 1-2 hours

Question 6

Ketamine Dose/Route?

Answer 6

Adult : Sedation - 1-2mg/kg IV over 1 minute or 4mg/kg IM.
Pain - 0.3mg/kg IV/IO/IM/IN

Peds : >2yrs old - 1-2mg/kg IV over 1 minute.
Pain - 0.3mg/kg IV/IO/IM/IN

Question 7

Ketamine Side Effects?

Answer 7

Hypertension, increased heart rate, hallucinations, delusions, explicit dreams