As posted on BIJC before, Asad et al. had performed a systematic review on the usage of ketamine as a continuous infusion (>24h) in intensive care patients. The same authors have now published a narrative review providing a more depth discussion about the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic properties of ketamine. Also they present recommendations for dosing and monitoring in an ICU setting. The Goodies of KetCurrent evidence shows that Ketamine... - Has no adverse effects on the gastrointestinal tract (bleeding) and does not cause acute kidney injury (compared to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drungs, NSAID's) - Does not negatively influence bowel motility (in contrast to opioids) - Preserves laryngeal protective reflexes - Lowers airway resistance - Increases lung compliance - Is less likely to cause respiratory depression - Is sympathomimetic, facilitates adrenergic transmission and inhibits synaptic catecholamine reuptake, therefore increasing heart rate and blood pressure The Concerns of KetKetamine... - Might increase pulmonary airway pressure and therefore aggravate pulmonary hypertension - Might cause well known psychotomimetic effects which are of concern in the critically ill patient as this might predispose to delirium - Interacts with benzodiazepines via the P450 pathway which could result in drug accumulation and prolonged recovery Concerns Proven Wrong- Ketamine need not to be avoided in patients at risk for seizures, particularly when used for analgosedation for short periods in the ICU setting - Current evidence shows no increased intracranial pressure or associated adverse neurologic outcomes associated with ketamine administration in critically ill patients Take HomeThe use of ketamine for analgosedation in the ICU continues to lack high-level evidence.However, it is effectively used around the globe and remains an attractive alternative agent for appropriately selected patients. Taking current knowledge and evidence into account this is especially true for patients with severe pain unresponsive to conventional therapies.
Taking precautions and contraindications into account ketamine is considerably safe and even avoids potentially adverse side effects of other agents used. Erstad BL, J Crit Care, Oct 2016, Vol 35, p 145-149 Comments are closed.
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