Using low-dose ketamine to relieve pain during burn wound care

A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Evaluation of Low-Dose Ketamine Infusion During Burn Wound Care Procedures to Improve Pain Intensity and Reduce Opioid Consumption

Phase 4 Interventional University of Tennessee · NCT06506565

This study is testing if low-dose ketamine can help relieve pain better than standard opioid treatments during wound care for people with burn injuries.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment140 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Tennessee Academic / other
Locations1 site (Memphis, Tennessee)
Trial IDNCT06506565 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine infusions during wound care for patients with burn injuries. The aim is to assess whether ketamine can provide better pain relief compared to the current standard of care, which primarily relies on opioids like fentanyl and midazolam. By potentially reducing opioid use and minimizing adverse effects, this approach seeks to improve patient comfort during painful procedures. Participants will receive ketamine alongside saline during their treatment.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults admitted to the burn service with thermal injuries who can consent and report their pain levels.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 18, pregnant, incarcerated, or have contraindications to ketamine will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved pain management for burn patients while reducing reliance on opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with ketamine for pain management, suggesting this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Admitted to burn service with thermal injury

Exclusion Criteria:

* unable/unwilling to consent within 72 hours
* unable to report NRS
* known contraindication to ketamine
* \< than 18 years of age
* pregnant
* incarcerated
* TBSA over 50 %

Where this trial is running

Memphis, Tennessee

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions BurnPainDissociationOpioidketamineburnopioidanalgesia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.