Drug reference
ketamine
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Central Nervous System (Anesthetics)
Mechanism of action
Produces dissociative anesthesia, Blocks NMDA receptor, Overdose may lead to panic attacks and aggressive behavior; rarely seizures, increased ICP, and cardiac arrest. Very similar in chemical makeup to PCP (phencyclidine), but it is shorter acting and less toxic
Common side effects
- Emergence rxns
- HTN
- Increased cardiac output
- Increased ICP
- Tonic-clonic movements
- Tachycardia
Known interactions (2)
- adrenaline-articaine + ketamine Moderate
- epinephrine + ketamine Moderate
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is ketamine?
ketamine belongs to: Central Nervous System.
How does ketamine work?
Produces dissociative anesthesia, Blocks NMDA receptor, Overdose may lead to panic attacks and aggressive behavior; rarely seizures, increased ICP, and cardiac arrest. Very similar in chemical makeup to PCP (phencyclidine), but it is shorter acting and less toxic
What are the common side effects of ketamine?
Emergence rxns, HTN, Increased cardiac output, Increased ICP, Tonic-clonic movements, Tachycardia
Which drugs interact with ketamine?
adrenaline-articaine, epinephrine
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
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