Etomidate is a short-acting intravenous anesthetic used to induce general anesthesia or provide sedation for short procedures, known for causing rapid unconsciousness with minimal impact on blood pressure, making it ideal for unstable patients, but it can cause adrenal suppression (inhibiting cortisol) and involuntary muscle movements (myoclonus). It works by enhancing the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, leading to a quick loss of consciousness. Uses
Induction of general anesthesia: For surgery.
Procedural sedation: For brief procedures like joint reduction, cardioversion, or tracheal intubation (rapid sequence intubation).
Critical care: For sedation in intensive care settings.
How it works
It's an imidazole derivative that rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier.
It potentiates the effects of GABA, the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, leading to CNS depression and loss of consciousness.
Side Effects & Concerns
Adrenal Suppression: Inhibits cortisol production, a concern in critically ill or septic patients.
