Ketamine Evolving Clinical Roles and Potential Effects with Cognitive, Motor and Driving Ability
Neurology International March 28, 2023 Amber N. Edinoff, Saveen Sall, Colby B. Koontz et al. 5 citations
Ketamine, derived from phencyclidine and used to treat conditions like treatment-resistant depression, impairs driving-related abilities. A study comparing ketamine with a similar drug, rapasitnel, found that ketamine caused more sleepiness and reduced self-reported motivation and confidence in driving. Effects vary depending on acute versus persistent use and anesthetic versus subanesthetic doses, complicating clinical decisions. This review describes ketamine's clinical uses and the risks of driving under its influence, aiming to guide patient counseling and protect public safety.