Protocol Status: PUBLISHED
Protocol:
Version: 2026.01
Effective Date:
Last Reviewed:
Medical Director Approval:
Clinical Note: This content reflects current GCEMS clinical guidelines as of the dates listed above. If content appears inconsistent with current policy, use the most recent approved guideline and notify leadership for correction.

Ketamine

(Ketalar)

 

GCEMS Protocol:

 

  • Multiple

 

Indications:

 

  • Procedural
  • Chemical restraint
  • Pre-intubation induction agent
  • Post intubation sedation

 

Contraindications:

 

  • Age < 12
  • SBP >210 or >110 Diastolic

 

Side Effects:

 

  • tachycardia, increased BP, Hallucinations, delirium, involuntary quivering, nightmares.

 

Pharmacokinetics:

 

  • onset: < 1 min IV, < 5 min (IM)
  • Duration: 10-15 min (IV) 20-30 min (IM)

 

Adult

 

Procedural Sedation:

 

  • 1 mg/kg IV Max dose 100 mg.

 

Rapid Sequence Induction / Sedation post

 

  • 2 mg/kg IV; Max dose 200 mg. Sedation may be repeated in 15 minutes.

 

Chemical Restraint

 

  • 4 mg/kg IM; max dose 400 mg.

 

Pain Management

 

  • 0.3mg/kg IV/IO; 30mg max single dose; may repeat once after 15 minutes.

 

Pediatric:

 

  • Not Approved