NMDA-Receptor Antagonists in Perioperative Pain Management

The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-receptor plays a central role in the establishment of chronic painChronic pain, central sensitizationCentral sensitization, and other detrimental pain-related processes. As a result, NMDA-receptor antagonists, such as ketamineKetamine, magnesiumMagnesium, and methadoneMethadone, have garnered significant attention for their therapeutic potential. These medications have been shown to produce profound analgesiaAnalgesia and reduce opioidOpioids consumption following surgery. In this chapter, we discuss the unique pharmacologic properties of NMDA-receptor antagonists and how they can be best utilized for perioperative pain managementPerioperative pain management.