Clinical evaluation of the effects of ketamine sedation on pediatric dental patients.

This study was undertaken to determine the dosages, treatment times and side effects of ketamine HCI with and without two benzodiazepines when used for sedation on a group of precooperative children at the UCLA Children's Dental Center. Ketamine was evaluated when used alone, and in conjunction with two benzodiazepines, diazepam or a new water-soluble midazolam. An anti-muscarinic, atropine or glycopyrrolate, and nitrous oxide-oxygen were included in all sedations. Mean treatment times were increased significantly when ketamine and a benzodiazepine were used in combination. Additionally, mean ketamine dosages were decreased significantly when ketamine was utilized in combination with a benzodiazepine. All children tolerated the sedation well and there were no severe adverse reactions. Side effects included nausea, vomiting, and a rise in post-operative temperatures.