Ketamine

Trade name

Ketalar, Ketamine-Baxter, Ketamine (Interpharma)

Strength

50 mg/mL (volume: 5 mL)

100 mg/mL (volume: 2 mL)

IV administration

Dilute to 10 to 50 mg/mL and give over at least 1 minute. Maximum rate: 0.5 mg/kg/minute.

May dilute to 1 to 2 mg/mL and give as a continuous infusion.

Stronger infusion concentrations have been used. Refer to relevant local guideline.

RCH Standard Concentrations:

50 mg/50 mL (1 mg/mL)

100 mg/50 mL (2 mg/mL)

RCH only: Refer to Medication Guideline – Ketamine Infusion for further information.

Other routes of administration

IM: Suitable. Give undiluted by deep IM injection.

SC: Suitable. May be given as an intermittent or continuous SC infusion in palliative care settings.

Compatible IV fluids

Glucose 5% 

Sodium chloride 0.9%

Y-site only and ketamine 2 mg/mL or weaker:

Plasma-Lyte 148

Additional information

Extravasation risk.

Use only when facilities for cardiac monitoring and cardio-respiratory resuscitation exist.

Rapid administration may cause respiratory depression and enhanced pressor response.

Some patients may experience vivid dreams, hallucinations and/or a state of delirium up to 24 hours post-operatively after receiving ketamine.

Ketamine-Baxter: Solution should be clear and colourless or slightly yellow.

Discard any unused vial contents.

Protect from light during storage.