Ketamine

Note:  These statements are included as special note but are not boxed

Emergence Reactions; Psychological Manifestations

  • Emergence Reactions: Incidence is the least in young (< 15> 65 yrs) and with IM use.
  • Psychological manifestations include dream-like states, vivid imagery, hallucinations, excitement and irrational behavior. Usually short duration but may recur up to 24 hrs post-op. To minimize incidence, use lower doses with IV diazepam and reduce verbal/visual stimuli.

Monitoring data

  • Terminate severe emergent reaction with small hypnotic dose of short-acting or ultra-short acting barbiturate
  • When used in outpatient procedure do not release patient until recovery from anesthesia is complete. Patients should be accompanied by an adult.

Patient counseling

Package inserts

Ketamine

Additional information

Updated: January 2018