Ketamine (Ketamine Hydrochloride) - Drug Interactions, Contraindications, Overdosage, etc

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Drug Interactions

Prolonged recovery time may occur if barbiturates and/or narcotics are used concurrently with ketamine.

Ketamine is clinically compatible with the commonly used general and local anesthetic agents when an adequate respiratory exchange is maintained.

OVERDOSAGE

Respiratory depression may occur with overdosage or too rapid a rate of administration of ketamine, in which case supportive ventilation should be employed. Mechanical support of respiration is preferred to administration of analeptics.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Ketamine is contraindicated in those in whom a significant elevation of blood pressure would constitute a serious hazard and in those who have shown hypersensitivity to the drug.

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE

Ketamine has been reported being used as a drug of abuse. Reports suggest that ketamine produces a variety of symptoms including, but not limited to, flashbacks, hallucinations, dysphoria, anxiety, insomnia, or disorientaion. Ketamine dependence and tolerance may develop in individuals with a history of drug abuse or dependence. Therefore, ketamine should be prescribed and administered with caution.