Ketamine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called dissociative anesthetics. It was initially developed and approved for use as an anesthetic in medical settings. Ketamine is known for its unique properties, including its sedative, analgesic (pain relief), and dissociative effects.

In medical practice, ketamine is primarily used as an anesthetic agent for surgical procedures, particularly in emergency settings or situations where rapid induction and recovery are required. It is often preferred for certain patient populations, such as children or individuals with respiratory compromise, due to its minimal impact on breathing and blood pressure.

Apart from its anesthetic properties, ketamine has gained attention for its potential therapeutic uses in psychiatry. Research suggests that ketamine may have rapid-acting antidepressant effects, and it is being investigated as a treatment option for treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders. Ketamine may also have potential applications in managing chronic pain conditions.

Ketamine works by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called glutamate in the brain, leading to its anesthetic and dissociative effects. It can induce a dream-like state, alter perception, and create a sense of detachment from one’s surroundings. These properties have also made ketamine a drug of abuse, leading to its classification as a controlled substance in many countries.