Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that works by blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. This action inhibits the transmission of pain signals and produces a state of anesthesia, sedation, and analgesia. Ketamine also acts on other receptors in the brain, such as opioid receptors, which contribute to its pain-relieving effects. Additionally, ketamine has the unique property of stimulating the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which may contribute to its rapid onset of action and antidepressant effects. Overall, ketamine's mechanism of action involves a combination of NMDA receptor antagonism, opioid receptor modulation, and neurotransmitter release, leading to its anesthetic and analgesic effects in medical and surgical emergencies.
