What does ketamine mean?
Ketamine is a synthetic medication primarily used for starting and maintaining anesthesia. It induces a trance-like state, providing pain relief, sedation, and memory loss. In medical settings, ketamine is valued for its ability to facilitate surgical procedures without depressing respiratory or cardiovascular functions. However, ketamine also has a reputation for recreational misuse due to its hallucinogenic properties and potential for dependence. Despite risks, ketamine remains an important anesthetic agent and a subject of ongoing research into its therapeutic potential, including treatment-resistant depression and certain pain conditions.
nounKetamine is a synthetic drug used for starting and maintaining anesthesia. It induces a trance-like state while providing pain relief, sedation, and memory loss.
- A medication used for anesthesia
- A recreational drug with hallucinogenic properties
"The anesthesiologist administered ketamine to the patient before the surgery."
"The patient was given ketamine to induce anesthesia before the surgical procedure."
"Some people misuse ketamine for its euphoric effects."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of ketamine
The term 'ketamine' was coined from its chemical structure, being a type of ketone and amine. It was first synthesized in 1962 by Calvin Stevens, an American chemist at Parke-Davis. The drug was initially tested as an anesthetic and later approved for medical use.
How ketamine is actually used
Ketamine has both medical and recreational uses, but its recreational use is often associated with risks and negative consequences.