General HealthMedicationKetamine: Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

Ketamine: Uses, Side Effects, and Precautions

Ketamine is a chemical compound classified as a narcotic drug. It is commonly categorized as a dissociative anesthetic. This medication is used to provide anesthesia or control pain. The effects of ketamine are based on affecting certain receptors in the central nervous system, resulting in consciousness loss and reduced pain sensation. Ketamine should be used under the supervision of a medical specialist or an anesthesiologist. Misuse of ketamine can lead to serious side effects and addiction. Additionally, the misuse and addiction of ketamine can cause serious health problems.

What is Ketamine Used For?

Ketamine can be used for the following conditions:

  • General anesthesia
  • Emergency surgeries
  • Pain management
  • Depression treatment
  • Psychiatric medication

How is Ketamine Used?

Ketamine should be used as directed by a medical specialist or an anesthesiologist for medical purposes:

General Anesthesia: Ketamine is used to provide general anesthesia during surgical procedures.

Emergency Surgeries: Due to its rapid onset of action, ketamine can be preferred in trauma or other emergency medical conditions requiring immediate surgery.

Pain Management: Ketamine can be used in the management of certain pain conditions, such as chronic pain or neuropathic pain.

Psychiatric Treatment: Ketamine can be used in the treatment of certain psychiatric conditions.

What are the Side Effects of Ketamine?

The use of ketamine can cause various side effects:

  • Dizziness and drowsiness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Anxiety and fear
  • Hallucinations
  • Confusion, urinary problems
  • Drug misuse and addiction
  • Musculoskeletal problems
  • Coordination issues
  • Heart and respiratory problems
  • Drowsiness, sensitization

Does Ketamine Interact with Other Medications?

Ketamine can interact with other medications:

  • Alcohol
  • Sedatives and sleep medications
  • Antidepressants
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
  • Hypertension medications

When Should Ketamine Not Be Used?

Ketamine is a medication that should not be used or should be used with caution in certain conditions:

Allergy: If you have a known allergy to ketamine or other medications containing ketamine hydrochloride, you should not use ketamine.

High Blood Pressure: In the case of high blood pressure, the use of ketamine can increase or decrease blood pressure.

Heart Problems: Serious heart problems, especially aortic stenosis, can make the use of ketamine dangerous.

Liver or Kidney Problems: The use of ketamine in individuals with severe liver or kidney problems may require dosage adjustments or may not be recommended.

Depression: Due to the risk of drug misuse or addiction, the use of ketamine in individuals with mental health problems such as depression should be carefully evaluated.

Schizophrenia or Psychosis: Ketamine can increase psychotic symptoms in individuals with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or psychosis and should therefore be used with caution.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of ketamine during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be carefully evaluated.

Intracranial Pressure Increase: The use of ketamine in conditions such as head trauma or cerebral hemorrhage with increased intracranial pressure should be carefully evaluated.

Non-Prescribed Use: Ketamine should only be used for medical purposes and as prescribed by a doctor.

What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Ketamine?

There are important points to consider when using ketamine:

Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Ketamine should only be used as directed by a medical specialist or an anesthesiologist and as prescribed.

Anesthesia Procedure: If ketamine is used to provide anesthesia during surgical procedures, this procedure should be performed in a medical environment and by an expert anesthesiologist.

Medication History: You should share your medication history with your doctor before using ketamine.

Alcohol and Drug Use: The use of ketamine in combination with alcohol or other drugs can cause serious interactions.

Machine Operation and Driving: The use of ketamine can cause dizziness and drowsiness.

Monitoring Side Effects: If you notice any side effects or discomfort during the use of ketamine, you should inform your doctor immediately.

Addiction and Misuse: Ketamine is a substance that can be misused and cause addiction.

Completing the Treatment: You should complete a treatment prescribed with ketamine.

Exclusive content

Latest article

More article