Ketamine

Dosage Forms Available

• Ketamine is available for use as an infusion (intravenous or intramuscular) route

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Ketamine can be given to adults and paediatric patients over the age of three months

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to Ketamine or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of severe hypertension or severe cardiovascular disease

Other Medications to Avoid

• Ketamine can interact with thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine), and general anaesthetics (e.g., propofol)

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Ketamine may cause severe hallucinations, changes in blood pressure, heart rate abnormalities, severe breathing problems, and severe nausea or vomiting. In the event of an accidental overdose, seek immediate medical attention

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, you should administer it as soon as possible. However, if it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects of Ketamine are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking small amounts of water throughout the day can help manage dry mouth

• If you feel drowsy or dizzy after administration, rest until you feel okay to get up

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Ketamine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and altered consciousness. Therefore, it may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Avoid performing these activities if you feel affected after the administration of the medicine

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Ketamine is classified as a pregnancy category C medication. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with cardiovascular disease, increased intracranial pressure, elevated intraocular pressure, thyroid disorders, and a history of medicine abuse should exercise caution when receiving Ketamine

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Ketamine can affect mood and cognition. Be aware of any changes in mood or cognitive function and report them to your doctor

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure is advisable for patients receiving this medicine due to its potential to affect blood pressure levels