A method for treating, ameliorating or preventing the onset of anxiety in a subject comprises administering to such subject an NMDA receptor antagonist in an amount that is sub-anesthetic and hypo-analgetic. The NMDA receptor antagonist may comprise ketamine and its pharmaceutically acceptable salts, and is administered as a premedication. Instances of use in this manner include administration prior to an anxiety causing event, such as a medical or a dental procedure. The administration of the NMDA receptor antagonist composition is particularly useful as a premedication for adults.
