What schedule is Ketamine IV Infusion in Australia?

Ketamine IV Infusion is classified as S8 under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia. Schedule 8 drugs are controlled substances with strict prescribing, dispensing, and monitoring requirements.

Can you work or drive while taking Ketamine IV Infusion?

Ketamine IV Infusion is a CNS depressant that may cause sedation, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. It can affect driving ability and work capacity, particularly in safety-sensitive roles. Work capacity should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

What should a case manager know about Ketamine IV Infusion?

Case managers should note that Ketamine IV Infusion is High risk. It is a CNS depressant that may affect work capacity. Always check for drug interactions with other medications on the claim.

Other | High Risk

Ketamine IV Infusion

Q: What risk level is Ketamine IV Infusion for workers compensation claims?

Ketamine IV Infusion is classified as High risk (7 risk points) by AllMeds. IV ketamine for treatment-resistant depression and chronic pain. Growing evidence. Must be administered in clinical setting.

What to know about Ketamine IV Infusion: uses, side effects, interactions, and safety considerations for people taking it or caring for someone who is.

Ketamine IV Infusion is classified as High risk (7 risk points) by AllMeds. It is a S8 medication under the TGA in Australia. IV ketamine for treatment-resistant depression and chronic pain. Growing evidence. Must be administered in clinical setting.

Key Takeaways

TGA Schedule: S8 in Australia
Risk level: High (7 points)
CNS depressant: May cause sedation, impair driving, and affect work capacity

Scheduling and Classification

Jurisdiction	Classification	Status
Australia (TGA)	S8	Not PBS listed

Risk Profile

Risk Level High

Risk Points 7

CNS Depressant Yes

Respiratory Risk No

IV ketamine for treatment-resistant depression and chronic pain. Growing evidence. Must be administered in clinical setting.

How Ketamine IV Infusion is regulated

Ketamine IV Infusion is overseen by medicines regulators in each country. The rules below explain how it's scheduled, what oversight applies, and what to discuss with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, changing, or stopping this medication.

Work capacity impact: As a CNS depressant, Ketamine IV Infusion may impair driving, operating machinery, and cognitive function. Work capacity certificates should reflect any medication-related restrictions.

Australia TGA / PBS / State Schemes

Classified as S8 under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Clinical Evidence

ANZCA/FPM: Statement on Ketamine for Chronic Pain - ANZCA / Faculty of Pain Medicine (2023)
FPM notes ketamine infusions may have a role in chronic pain management but evidence is limited. Should only be administered in appropriate clinical settings.

Peak Australian anaesthesia/pain body
WorkSafe Victoria: Esketamine Guidelines - WorkSafe Victoria (2024)
WorkSafe VIC has published specific guidelines for esketamine/ketamine use in workers comp claims. Requires specialist referral and prior approval.

State workers comp regulator — directly relevant
Ketamine for chronic pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Orhurhu V, et al. (2019)
Systematic review of IV ketamine for chronic pain. Short-term benefit demonstrated but evidence for long-term outcomes limited.

Peer-reviewed systematic review

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Important: This page is general health information, not personal medical advice. If you have questions about your medication — including starting it, stopping it, changing the dose, or combining it with something else — speak with your doctor or pharmacist. For an emergency or suspected overdose, call your local emergency number or poison information service immediately. Information is drawn from regulator and clinical guideline sources (TGA, FDA, MHRA, NICE, PBS, CDC); see our methodology for details.