Ketamine in insulin resistance: Pharmacokinetics, cardiovascular implications and cellular effects on cardiomyocytes.
Diabetes, obesity & metabolism May 1, 2025 Ariana Ramirez, Stephanie Howes, Robert Chilton 3 citations
Ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic used for pain and depression, disrupts excitatory neurotransmission by blocking N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors and interacting with opioid and serotonin pathways. In patients with insulin resistance, ketamine's effects on glucose metabolism, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress are worsened. This paper examines ketamine's pharmacokinetics, cardiovascular impact, and cellular effects on heart muscle cells, especially in insulin-resistant individuals. The findings highlight the need for careful administration and monitoring in these patients to balance therapeutic benefits against risks in those with metabolic or cardiovascular conditions.