What is a common side effect of Ketamine?

Dissociative anesthesia is a well-recognized and prominent side effect of Ketamine, which is an anesthetic agent used in various medical settings. Ketamine induces a trance-like state characterized by a profound sense of detachment from the environment, and patients often experience altered perceptions and sensations. This dissociation occurs because Ketamine primarily acts as an NMDA receptor antagonist, which dampens the excitatory neurotransmission in the brain and can lead to this unique state of consciousness.

In contrast, other side effects may occasionally be associated with Ketamine but are less defining. For instance, while increased sedation can occur, it is not as characteristic of Ketamine as dissociative anesthesia. Respiratory depression is typically not a side effect associated with Ketamine in moderate doses; instead, it is often preserved even when other sedatives might induce respiratory compromise. Additionally, Ketamine does not lead to increased tidal volume; rather, it may maintain or even improve respiratory function due to its unique pharmacological profile. Therefore, the identification of dissociative anesthesia as a common side effect highlights the distinctive effects of Ketamine that set it apart from other anesthetics and sedatives.