Clinical study of althesin and hypnomidate.

A simple clinical and a more elaborate instrumental study are presented on the cardio-circulatory action of Althesine and Etomidate (Hypnomidate) compared to thiopental (Pentothal). Statistically is Althesin not significantly worse than thiopental but significantly worse than Hypnomidate. Hypnomidate is less aggressive than thiopental although non significantly. Succinylcholine (1 mg/kg) aggravates the heart depressant actions of the tested drugs, while the intubation of the trachea produces sometimes a serious pressor response which can not be always blocked by prior administration of a low dose (0.1 mg i.v.) Fentanyl.