In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to ketamine's ability to protect the brains of patients who have survived cardiac arrest. Of particular interest is its potential to reduce the neurological damage that often occurs after such critical events. Ketamine, which is an NMDA receptor antagonist, has demonstrated protective properties that may be useful in the treatment of post-resuscitation syndrome, which is characterized by oxygen deprivation in the brain (hypoxic-ischemic injury).
Research indicates that the degree of brain damage after cardiac arrest is a decisive factor for survival and the subsequent neurological condition of patients. The statistics are grim: such brain damage is the cause of approximately 68% of deaths in cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. This highlights the urgent need for effective strategies to protect the nervous system.
Ketamine's ability to increase the chances of early survival has been confirmed in experimental models. For example, studies in rats have shown that prior administration of ketamine significantly increased survival rates. This suggests that the drug helps improve treatment outcomes by reducing "excitotoxicity" (cell death due to excessive excitation) and oxidative stress—two key processes that destroy the brain after cardiac arrest.
In addition to ketamine, there are already proven methods of protecting the brain, such as targeted body temperature regulation (therapeutic hypothermia). This method has been shown to improve recovery and reduce mortality in patients who are in a coma after cardiac arrest. Combining temperature control with pharmacological agents such as ketamine may create a synergistic effect, enhancing brain protection and improving overall outcomes. In addition, it is critical to monitor blood circulation and respiration (maintaining normal oxygen and carbon dioxide levels) to ensure adequate brain nutrition.
The complexity of brain recovery processes requires a comprehensive approach. Ketamine's role as a neuroprotector is confirmed by its ability to block the spread of calcium waves and reduce toxic neuronal excitation. Scientists have also investigated other complementary therapies, such as the use of progesterone or other neurotrophic factors, but their effectiveness has not yet been conclusively proven. The integration of various strategies, including the administration of ketamine, may significantly improve the prospects for patient recovery.
In summary, it can be said that the neuroprotective effect of ketamine is supported by a growing body of evidence. Its combination with already established methods, such as temperature control and careful management of hemodynamics, opens up a promising avenue for the rescue and recovery of this vulnerable group of patients.
This material is a translation of a review article from a scientific resource that highlights experimental treatment methods. In Ukraine, ketamine is a controlled substance and cannot be used outside of
medical institutions that have the appropriate license.
The information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a recommendation for treatment.
