Ketamine infusion
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is an anaesthetic drug that has analgesic properties in sub-anaesthetic doses. The mechanism of action is mediated by its activity on the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor where it blocks excitatory nerve pathways involved in pain transmission. Ketamine is a schedule 8 medication.
What is a Ketamine infusion used to treat?
A ketamine infusion can be used to treat a range of chronic pain conditions. Some of these include, but are not limited to:
- Neuropathic pain
- Spinal cord pain
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
What is the aim of the infusion?
The aim of a ketamine infusion is to reduce your pain levels by winding down the sensitivity in your nerves that transmit pain. It also increases your sensitivity to analgesia, reducing the amount of medications you need for managing your pain.
Before the infusion
A consultation is required with the treating doctor to discuss whether a Ketamine infusion would be appropriate. This will include a discussion of potential benefits, risks, and goals of treatment (ie reduction in opioids).
How is a ketamine infusion administered?
Ketamine infusions are administered in a hospital. You will be changed into a gown will lie comfortably in a bed for the infusion.
An intravenous cannula will be inserted so that the ketamine can be adminsitered via an infusion pump. The dose administered will be based on your body weight.
An anti-nausea medication is often given before commencement of the infusion for nausea and vomiting, and a sedative may be given for anxiety.
You will be monitored by a nurse with regular measurements of your pulse, blood pressure etc.
After the infusion
You will be assessed by our nurse to confirm you are safe for discharge. Ensure someone can drive you home safely and be with you for the next 24 hours.
Are there any side effects?
Yes, even in low doses ketamine can cause side effects in some people. These can include but are not limited to: light headedness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, dysphoria, heightened emotional response, increase in blood pressure and/or pulse, sedation, shortness of breath.
DisclaimerThe above information is for general education only and is not intended as a substitute for your own independant health advice. At Western Pain clinic we comprehensively assess each patients pain condition and provide advice using the latest evidence-based treatments. If you would like to find out more information about ketamine infusions, please discuss this with our doctor during your consultation.