What classification does Ketamine fall under when used for analgesia?

Ketamine is classified as a general anesthetic when used for analgesia. It acts primarily by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain, which helps to prevent the perception of pain and induces a dissociative state. This characteristic makes it particularly effective in emergency settings where rapid analgesia and sedation are required without the need for traditional opioid medications, which can pose risks of respiratory depression and addiction.

While Ketamine can have analgesic properties and be used in lower doses for pain management, its primary classification aligns with general anesthesia due to its ability to produce significant sedation and dissociation in higher doses. This dual functionality allows it to be versatile in various medical situations, making it a key agent in tactical combat casualty care for managing pain effectively while also providing a degree of sedation.