Ketamine Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 6, 2023.

Applies to ketamine: injection solution.

Serious side effects of ketamine

Along with its needed effects, ketamine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking ketamine:

Other side effects of ketamine

Some side effects of ketamine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to ketamine: compounding powder, injectable solution, intravenous solution.

Cardiovascular adverse events

• Common (1% to 10%): Blood pressure increased, heart rate increased, increased pulse rate
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Bradycardia, arrhythmia, hypotension
• Frequency not reported: Arrhythmia^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Respiratory rate increased
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Respiratory depression, laryngospasm
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Obstructive airway disorder, apnea^[Ref]

Ocular

• Common (1% to 10%): Nystagmus, diplopia
• Frequency not reported: Intraocular pressure increased^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Nausea, vomiting, anorexia
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Salivary hypersecretion^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypertonia, tonic clonic movements^[Ref]

Local

• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Injection site pain, injection site rash^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Erythema, morbilliform rash^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Common (1% to 10%): Hallucination, abnormal dreams, nightmare, confusion, agitation, abnormal behavior
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Anxiety
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Delirium, flashback, dysphoria, insomnia, disorientation
• Frequency not reported: Psychotic episodes^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Cystitis, hemorrhagic cystitis^[Ref]

Hepatic

• Frequency not reported: Liver function test abnormal^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Common (1% to 10%): Anaphylactic reaction^[Ref]

Further information

Ketamine side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer