Anaes SAQs · Intravenous induction agents
Ketamine — the unique pharmacology and the shocked patient
The ketamine SAQ — the non-competitive NMDA open-channel block (use-dependent), the dissociative state, the profound sub-anaesthetic analgesia, the bronchodilation (the only IV induction agent that is a bronchodilator), the indirect sympathomimetic pressor response, the catecholamine-depleted heart caveat (unmasked direct negative inotropy), the opioid-free anaesthesia role, and the ketamine-versus-etomidate RSI comparison.
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Prompt
Outline the mechanism of action of ketamine, its pharmacological profile, and how this determines its role as the induction agent of choice in the hypovolaemic and the bronchospastic patient. Include the critical caveat that applies to the catecholamine-depleted heart.
Question
Outline the mechanism of action of ketamine, its pharmacological profile, and how this determines its role as the induction agent of choice in the hypovolaemic and the bronchospastic patient. Include the critical caveat that applies to the catecholamine-depleted heart.
[8]References4ShowHide
- [1]Al Subhi M, et al. Perioperative ketamine and esketamine for postoperative fatigue. Medicina (Kaunas), 2026.PMID 42356168
- [4]Ayazbekova A, et al. Role of Opioid-Free Anesthesia Versus Opioid-Based Anesthesia in Postoperative Pain and Opioid Consumption: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med, 2026.PMID 42355728
- [5]Duclos G, et al. Ketamine Low dOse Evaluation on morphine consumption in traumatic patients: study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (KLOE-Trial). Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med, 2026.PMID 42310772
- [8]Chilingarashvili G, et al. Ketamine Versus Etomidate for Rapid Sequence Intubation in Critically Ill Adults: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Cureus, 2026.PMID 42011475