Ketamine

Ketamine Injection
Anesthetic and Analgesic Agent for Horses
Concentration: As per labeled specification
Pharmaceutical Form: Injectable solution (intravenous or intramuscular use)

Therapeutic Indications:

• Short-duration field procedures

• Induction of general anesthesia

• Pain management adjunct

• Minor surgical or diagnostic interventions

Key Benefits:

Rapid anesthetic onset
Effective pain control
Preserves vital reflexes
Minimal respiratory suppression
Smooth, fast recovery

Mechanism of Action:

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that induces unconsciousness while preserving essential protective reflexes (e.g., swallowing, corneal, and cough reflexes). It provides both analgesic and anesthetic effects without significantly depressing respiratory function when used appropriately.

Clinical Use:

• Standalone anesthesia: Suitable for brief, minor procedures (typically <30 minutes)

• Anesthetic induction: Used prior to inhalation anesthesia

• Adjunctive analgesia: Combined with other agents for enhanced pain relief

Administration and Dosage:

Route: Intravenous (IV) or intramuscular (IM)
Dosage: Determined by a licensed veterinarian based on weight, health status, and intended procedure
Monitoring: Continuous observation of vitals required throughout administration and recovery

Recovery:

• Fast and generally uneventful

• Withhold food and water until full recovery

• Recovery environment should be calm and monitored to prevent injury

Contraindications and Precautions:

• Use with caution in horses with cardiac, hepatic, or renal compromise

• Avoid in procedures requiring deep muscle relaxation unless combined with other agents

• Not for use without veterinary supervision

Storage Conditions:

Store in a cool, dry place
Temperature: 15°C – 30°C (59°F – 86°F)
Protect from light