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Procedural sedation with ketamine alone

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Ketamine is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist that produces rapid-onset dissociative sedation and analgesia suitable for procedural use.

Ketamine is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist that produces rapid-onset dissociative sedation and analgesia suitable for procedural use. Used for Procedural sedation and analgesia for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

At a glance

Generic nameProcedural sedation with ketamine alone
SponsorCentre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice
Drug classNMDA receptor antagonist
TargetNMDA receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesia/Procedural Sedation
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Ketamine blocks N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors in the central nervous system, producing dissociative anesthesia characterized by sedation, analgesia, and preserved airway reflexes. This mechanism allows patients to remain responsive while achieving adequate sedation for painful procedures, with the added benefit of analgesia that reduces the need for opioids.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results