Etomidate (Amidate)

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Sedative/hypnotic, anesthesia

Question 2

Mechanism of Action

Answer 2

• Exact mechanism is unknown
• Appears to have GABA like effects

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

• Induction of RSI and pharmacological-assisted intubation
• Induction of anesthesia

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

• Known hypersensitivity
• Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risk to the fetus.
• Do not use during labor and avoid in nursing mothers

Question 5

Adverse Effects

Answer 5

• Hypotension, respiratory depression, pain at the injection site, temporary involuntary muscle movements, frequent nausea/vomiting on emergence, adrenal insufficiency, hyper/hypoventilation, short duration apnea, laryngospasm, cardiac arrythmias

Question 6

Administration

Answer 6

• ​Adult: 0.1-0.3 mg/kg IV over 15-30 seconds. A typical adult intubating dose is 20 mg slow IV.
• Peds: Same as adult 10+ years old, under 10 safety unknown.