What drug is known for stimulating vital centers, increasing blood pressure and pulse?

The drug that is known for stimulating vital centers, increasing blood pressure and pulse is indeed ketamine. Ketamine, an NMDA receptor antagonist, has unique properties that distinguish it from other anesthetic agents. It is often used for induction and maintenance of anesthesia in various surgical procedures. One of its characteristics is that it can stimulate the cardiovascular system, which leads to increased blood pressure and heart rate. This sympathetic stimulation makes it particularly useful in situations where maintaining hemodynamic stability is important.

In contrast, other options like propofol and barbiturates are primarily central nervous system depressants that tend to lower blood pressure and heart rate due to their sedative effects. Diazepam, as a benzodiazepine, is also a sedative and will not stimulate vital centers like ketamine does. Therefore, ketamine's ability to stimulate vital centers and maintain cardiovascular stability is what makes it the correct choice for identifying a drug that increases blood pressure and pulse.