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Ketamine Sub-Anaesthetic Analgesia — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyPharmacology - Intravenous AnaestheticsKetamine Sub-Anaesthetic AnalgesiaFRCA Primary

Ketamine is unique among IV anaesthetic agents because it:

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Correct answer: B — Provides analgesia at sub-anaesthetic doses

Ketamine provides significant analgesia at sub-anaesthetic doses (0.1-0.5 mg/kg IV) via NMDA receptor antagonism and opioid receptor interactions. This dissociative agent increases HR / BP / bronchodilates / maintains airway reflexes (relatively) / and preserves respiratory drive better than other IV agents. It increases CMRO2 and ICP.

Reference: Peck Hill Williams 2014 Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care