Use of Ketamine Associate With an Opioid for Sedation in ICU

Use of Ketamine Associate With an Opioid for Sedation in ICU : a Randomized Controlled Double Blind Study

The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of ketamine associated to an opioid for sedation of mechanically ventilated critically ill patients versus placebo. Sedation will be drive by nurses according to an algorithm. The investigators will evaluate the quantity of opioates used in each arm and the safety of ketamine.

All consecutive mechanically ventilated patients admitted in the intensive care unit (ICU)will be randomized to receive an infusion of 0.15 mg/kg/h of kétamine or placebo. Nurses and physicians will be blinded of the allocation arm. The infusion of ketamine will be stopped as soon as remifentanil will be discontinued by the physician.

Inclusion Criteria:

• all patients under mechanical ventilation

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnant
• psychotic
• chronic use of opiates
• age < 18 years