Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Ketamine requires a valid prescription.
Ketamine
Generic Name: KETAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE
11 DESCRIPTION KETALAR (ketamine hydrochloride) injection, for intravenous or intramuscular use, contains ketamine, a nonbarbiturate general anesthetic.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Ketamine Used For?
- Pain relief during procedures
- Local anaesthesia
How Does It Work?
The major circulating metabolite of ketamine (norketamine) demonstrated activity at the same receptor with less affinity.
Dosage & Administration
- Alternatively, administer a dose of 1 to 2 mg/kg at a rate of 0.5 mg/kg/min. -- Intramuscular route : Initially, 6.5 to 13 mg/kg. Maintenance of anesthesia: Increments of one-half to the full induction dose may be repeated as needed .
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Hemodynamic Instability: Monitor vital signs and cardiac function during KETALAR administration. Emergence Reactions: Postoperative confusional states may occur during the recovery period.
- Reduce by minimizing verbal, tactile, and visual stimulation of the patient. Risk of Respiratory Depression: May occur with overdosage or too rapid a rate of administration.
- Maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation. Risks of KETALAR alone for Procedures of the Pharynx, Larynx, or Bronchial Tree : Pharyngeal and laryngeal reflexes are not suppressed with KETALAR when it is used alone.
- Avoid use as a sole anesthetic agent in surgery or diagnostic procedures of the pharynx, larynx, or bronchial tree.
- KETALAR is contraindicated in patients for whom a significant elevation of blood pressure would constitute a serious hazard [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . 5.2 Emergence Reactions Emergence delirium (postoperative confusional states or agitation) has occurred in approximately 12% of patients during the recovery period, and the duration is generally a few hours.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- KETALAR is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to ketamine or to any excipient [see Adverse Reactions ( 6 ) ].
- In patients for whom a significant elevation of blood pressure would be a serious hazard ( 4 ).
- Known hypersensitivity to ketamine or to any excipient ( 4 ).
Drug Interactions
Ketamine may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Need a Prescription or Medical Advice?
Consult a qualified doctor before taking Ketamine. Our verified doctors are available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Anaesthetics Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
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FAQS
Ketamine – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Ketamine, its uses, dosage and safety.
Ketamine is commonly prescribed in India for: Pain relief during procedures, Local anaesthesia. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Ketamine is sold in India under brand names such as Ketalar, Ketamax, Kalipsol. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Ketamine is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Ketamine can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Rash. Less common but serious side effects can include: Anaphylaxis, Seizure. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
The major circulating metabolite of ketamine (norketamine) demonstrated activity at the same receptor with less affinity.
Ketamine can interact with: Theophylline, Aminophylline, Vasopressin. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Ketamine.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Ketamine for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Ketamine depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Ketamine during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Ketamine's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.