Which medication is used as an adjunct to opioid pain management?

Ketamine is recognized as an effective adjunct to opioid pain management due to its unique properties as an NMDA receptor antagonist. When used in conjunction with opioids, ketamine can enhance analgesia and reduce the overall amount of opioids required, potentially minimizing opioid-related side effects and the risk of dependence. It is particularly beneficial in cases of severe pain or in situations where the patient may be experiencing opioid tolerance or refractory pain. Ketamine's rapid onset and ability to provide pain relief without the typical respiratory depression associated with opioids make it valuable in tactical and emergency settings.

The other medications listed serve different primary purposes. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that provides pain relief but is not specifically used as an adjunct to opioid management. Avelox, an antibiotic, is used to treat infections and not for pain management. Zofran is primarily an antiemetic used to prevent nausea and vomiting, not to manage pain. Thus, ketamine stands out as the appropriate choice in the context of adjunct pain management with opioids.