Comparison of a New Formulation of Etomidate with Thiopental—Side Effects and Awakening Times

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Etomidate is a pure hypnotic that does not cause significant cardiovascular or respiratory depression or histamine release. The side effects of pain on injection and myoclonic movements are frequent. A new formulation of etomidate, using 35% propylene glycol as solvent, was studied to determine whether it was associated with a lesser incidence of these side effects. The pharmacologic properties of etomidate suggest that it would be a good induction agent for outpatient anesthesia, where rapid awakening is desirable. Since there are no previous reports of awakening time tests after etomidate, this measurement was also included in the study. Etomidate and thiopental were compared in hypnotic-narcotic-nitrous oxide anesthesia for minor gynecologic operations [in women]. The new formulation of etomidate reduces the incidences of pain on injection and myoclonic movements to acceptable levels. Although awakening time is rapid, it is similar to that seen with thiopental.
Keywords

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit: