ketamine

Ketamine (Ketalar) can often cause temporary changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Some people can also experience an irregular heartbeat and other heart problems with this medication. Your provider will check your vital signs and heart while you receive ketamine (Ketalar).

Ketamine (Ketalar) can make some people feel confused or distressed after waking up from their surgery or procedure. This medication can also cause you to have hallucinations (see or feel things that aren't real) or feel like you're in a dream-like state, which can lead to confusion, excitement, or acting without logical thinking. This effect can last a few hours depending on your ketamine (Ketalar) dose and how the medication was given. To lower the chances of having these reactions, your provider might give you other medications as part of anesthesia or make sure the room is quiet when you're waking up from your surgery or procedure.

Receiving too much ketamine (Ketalar) or too fast can cause breathing problems. Your provider will monitor your breathing and oxygen level during your treament. They'll adjust your dose appropriately to prevent this from happening.

It's unclear if ketamine (Ketalar) is safe for pregnant women, their unborn babies, and children under 16 years old. Anesthetic medications can be necessary for certain surgeries or procedures, depending on the risks and benefits. Discuss with your or your child's provider about how safe ketamine (Ketalar) is for your child.

• Risk factors: Using ketamine (Ketalar) over and over again

Ketamine (Ketalar) might raise the risk of liver problems if it's used repeatedly. Your provider will monitor your liver function if you need to receive this medication often or repeatedly.

Ketamine (Ketalar) can interact with certain medications, so let your providers know all of the medications that you currently take before you come in for your procedure or surgery. Taking ketamine (Ketalar) together with theophylline or aminophylline can make it easier to have a seizure. Other medications can make the effects of ketamine (Ketalar) stronger. When ketamine (Ketalar) is used with medications that slow down the body, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol, it can lead to excessive sleepiness, breathing problems, coma, and death. Depending on the medications you need to receive with ketamine (Ketalar), your provider might adjust your dose and monitor you more closely to make sure it's safe for you.