Etomidate (Hypnomidate)
Mechanism of action
Nonbarbiturate general anaesthetic agent.
Ultra short-acting nonbarbiturate (benzylimidazole) general anaesthetic agent with minimal cardiovascular effects.
Indications and dose
Side-effects
Apnoea
Hypotension
Movement disorder
Adrenal supression
Nausea
Vomiting
Arrhythmias
Muscle rigidity
Hypertension
Nystagmus
Precautions
Etomidate blocks stress-induced increase in adrenal cortisol production by inhibiting 11-beta-hydroxylase.
Effect lasts 6-8 hours and in elderly up to 24 hours.
May exacerbate heart failure.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset of action: 30-60 seconds; peak 1 minute
Duration of action: 2-5 minutes
Bioavailability: N/A
Distribution: Rapid distribution
Metabolism: Hepatic and plasma esterase
Half-life of elimination: 2.6-3.5 hours
Excretion: Urine
Directions for administration
Give over 30-60 seconds.
Continuous infusion is not recommended.
Medicinal forms
I.V - 1 vial = 10 ml (20 mg)
References
