The noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist, MK-801 profoundly reduces volatile anesthetic requirements in rabbits.

Rabbits anesthetized with volatile anesthetics were given bolus doses of the n-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK-801. Following observation and recording of the hemodynamic and electroencephalographic effects of MK-801, the animals were tested for requirements of volatile anesthetic to prevent movement to a noxious stimulus. It was demonstrated that MK-801 significantly reduced anesthetic requirements in a dose-dependent manner, while also affecting hemodynamics and the electroencephalogram in a manner consistent with the production of a deeper plane of anesthesia.