NBRC Pharmacology Practice Exam 2026 - Free NBRC Pharmacology Practice Questions and Review Guide

Ketamine is a unique medication primarily known for its use as an anesthetic and sedative in both human and veterinary medicine. One of its distinctive features is its ability to provide sedation while maintaining or even increasing blood pressure in some patients. This occurs due to its sympathomimetic effects, which can stimulate the cardiovascular system and lead to an increase in systemic vascular resistance.

When administered, ketamine typically works by blocking the NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptor, which is involved in pain transmission and memory. This blockade contributes to its anesthetic and analgesic properties. Unlike many other sedatives that may cause hypotension, ketamine's action on the cardiovascular system can counteract significant drops in blood pressure, making it particularly valuable in emergency situations or in patients who may not tolerate hypotensive episodes well.

In contrast, some options suggest contrary effects. Inducing deep sleep is more emblematic of agents like propofol or benzodiazepines, which have a more pronounced sedative effect without the same cardiovascular stimulation. Reducing heart rate is not typical of ketamine use; rather, it can sometimes induce tachycardia due to its sympathomimetic effects. While certain anesthetics may lead to hypotension, ket