Name: Ketamine (Ketalar)
Class: General Anesthetic (IV Anesthetic Agent)
Mechanism: Blocks membrane effects of glutamic acid at NMDA receptors. Related to PCP.
Absorption: IV
Dist.: Dissolves in blood. Organs w/high perfusion are most affected.
Metabolism.: Hepatic Metabolism.
Excretion, t½: Urinary & biliary excretion. Short duration of effect. Mod. t½.
Toxicity/S.E.s: CV stimulation. Minimal resp. depression. Emergence phenomena include disorientation, sensory & perceptual illusions, and vivid dreams (prior admin. of diazepam reduces incidence).
Utility: General anesthetic. Also inducing agent.
Special Features: Excellent analgesia.