The purpose of this research is to see if ketamine is effective and safe in treating children and young adults with sickle cell disease experiencing sickle cell related pain. In this study, we will compare the outcomes (such as pain scores) in persons who receive standard of care pain medicine (an opioid such as morphine) plus a low dose (amount) of ketamine to those who receive only standard of care pain medicine.
Between the ages 5-20 years
Diagnosed sickle cell disease. Homozygous (HbSS) or heterozygous (HbSC, HbSBetaThal Plus or Zero) will be included.
Presenting with VOE pain, requiring IV pain medication.
First dose of analgesic medication is given before patient approached for participation in the study.
Sickle cell trait only
Patients whose primary language is other than English or Spanish
Pain attributed to causes other than VOE
Not requiring IV for pain treatment
Mohsen Saidinejad
Lead sponsor
Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
Sponsor institution