Dissociative agents like ketamine may cause what at the injection site?

Dissociative agents such as ketamine can lead to a sensation of burning at the injection site. This occurs due to the irritation that these agents may cause to the surrounding tissues as they are administered. Ketamine, specifically, has been noted for creating a stinging or burning sensation during injection, particularly when given intramuscularly where muscle tissue is involved.

Understanding the pharmacological properties and the route of administration can help in anticipating potential side effects like this one. In contrast, swelling, bruising, and itching are generally associated with different types of tissue responses or reactions to medication or injection but are not specifically characteristic of dissociative agents like ketamine.