Ketamine Dosage
The average Ketamine dosages for intravenous use normally range between 0.5ml and 2.5ml per pound of the patient’s body weight at a rate of approximately 0.25mg/lb/minute.
A 1mg/lb dosage will provide approximately five to 10 minutes of anaesthesia within 30 seconds of the patient receiving it.
For intramuscular procedures, dosages are a little higher at around 3.5mg to 6.5mg/lb of body weight with approximately 4.5 to 6.5mg/lb providing between 12 and 25 minutes of anaesthesia within three to four minutes of the patient receiving it.
Ketamine should always be stored between 59 and 86 degrees Farenheit, and protected from heat and light sources. This drug is also not suitable for refrigeration or freezing.
Important Precautions Regarding the Use of Ketamine
Because some medications or conditions can affect how a patient reacts to Ketamine, it is important for them to advise their doctor if they are using any prescription or herbal medication, or if they suffer from any medical conditions. If the patient has any food or medicinal allergies, they need to advise their doctor prior to receiving a dose of Ketamine.
Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive should advise their doctor before using Ketamine. If a patient has experienced any form of head injury, eye injury, high blood pressure or a stroke, they should advise their doctor. It is important to note that Ketamine is not suitable for use in children who are under the age of 16 years.
How a Ketamine Overdose is Usually Treated
Patients who receive an overdose of Ketamine may experience hallucinations, insomnia, confusion, hypertension, vomiting, memory loss, chest pain, seizures or a rapid heartbeat. Symptoms can vary, depending on whether the patient has used other medication in conjunction with the Ketamine or not. Treatment for an overdose consists mostly of providing supportive care by monitoring their blood pressure and heart rate, and offering assisted breathing in severe cases of overdose. In some cases, medications containing Benzodiazepine (Ativan or Valium) will be prescribed to assist with seizures or agitation. If a patient suspects an overdose of Ketamine, they should contact their doctor immediately.
If a patient suffers from heart conditions, mental health conditions, increased cerebrospinal fluid pressure, hypertension or any allergies, they should inform their doctor before using Ketamine. Because Ketamine can cause drowsiness for approximately 24 hours after use, patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery after using Ketamine. It is always important for a patient to consult with their doctor before using any new form of medication or treatment.
