Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

ketamine

noun

/ˈkɛtəˌmiːn/

Definition

Ketamine is a medication primarily used for starting and maintaining anesthesia. It causes a trance-like state while providing pain relief, sedation, and memory loss.

Examples

Ketamine is commonly used in emergency medicine due to its rapid action.
Some studies have suggested that ketamine can have rapid effects on depression.
Veterinarians often use ketamine for tranquilizing animals before surgery.

Meaning

Ketamine is often used in medical settings to induce anesthesia in patients before surgical procedures. It has gained attention for its potential antidepressant effects in lower doses.