Which of the following anesthetics commonly causes hallucinations and dissociative anesthesia?
Procaine.
Denoulded Ketamine.
Isofhurane.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is Ketamine.
Explanation:
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic known for its ability to induce both anesthesia and hallucinatory experiences. It is distinct from other anesthetics like procaine and isoflurane, both of which have different mechanisms and side effects.
Ketamine works primarily by inhibiting the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. By doing so, it blocks excitatory neurotransmission, leading to a dissociative state where the patient is detached from their surroundings, hence the term “dissociative anesthesia.” This effect can result in vivid hallucinations, altered perceptions of reality, and a sense of detachment from the body. These side effects are particularly evident during the recovery phase as the drug wears off.
Procaine, on the other hand, is a local anesthetic that primarily works by blocking sodium channels, which prevents nerve conduction and numbs the area. Procaine does not have the same hallucinatory or dissociative effects because it does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier in the same way as ketamine. It is primarily used for local anesthesia and does not affect consciousness or perception.
Isoflurane is a volatile anesthetic commonly used for general anesthesia. It acts on the central nervous system to produce unconsciousness, but it does not typically cause hallucinations or dissociation. Instead, isoflurane works by enhancing the effects of inhibitory neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) while also suppressing excitatory neurotransmitter activity.
In summary, ketamine stands out for its unique ability to produce dissociative anesthesia and is associated with hallucinations, making it the correct answer among the given options.