Ketamine infusions (1896)

What is ketamine and how is it used?

Ketamine is a medicine that is used for pain that is hard to control. This may include after surgery or nerve pain. If your child does not have pain relief with other medicines, ketamine can be given.

Other pain medicines will still be used to help control their pain. Your child will still get medicines like Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). They may also get stronger pain medicines like opioids, if needed.

Ketamine infusions are given slowly through an IV. Infusions are also called drips. The amount of time the medicine is given is different for each child. It will be given as long as it is helping your child. You will work with your child’s care team to decide when the medicine can be stopped. By using ketamine, they may not need as many opioids.

What are the side effects?

• Blurry vision.
• Fast or slow heart rate.
• High or low blood pressure.
• Tremors or muscle movements.
• Throwing up.
• Slower breathing than normal.

What will be monitored in my child?

Your child will be on monitors to watch their heart rate and oxygen level.

Staff will check your child’s breathing, heart rate, oxygen, blood pressure and temperature every few hours.

ALERT: Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any concerns or if your child:

• Is not getting enough pain relief.
• Has any side effects from the medicine.
• Has special health care needs not covered by this information.

For other health and wellness information, check out this resource:

https://kidshealth.org/ChildrensWi/en/parents

This sheet was created to help you care for your child or family member. It does not take the place of medical care. Talk with your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. #1896 May 2022 Page 1 of 1 Children’s Wisconsin • PO Box 1997 • Milwaukee, WI 53201-1997 • childrenswi.org © 2020 Children’s Wisconsin. All rights reserved.