[Hemodynamic effects of Etomidate].

Hemodynamic variations due to Etomidate administration were studies in 10 patients submitted to artificial ventilation. Etomidate was given at a 0.37 mg/kg B.W. dosage. Cardiac rate, mean arterial B.P., C.V.P., mean arteial pulmonary pressure, mean pulmonary capillary pressure and cardiac output were investigated. From values found, systolic output, systemic vascular resistance, and pulmonary arteriolar resistance were calculated. Results show that Etomidate has little effect on hemodynamics. There is only a 5 p. 100 increase in cardiac rate, a 16p. 100 decrease in cardiac output, 1 18 p. 100 decrease in systolic output and a 12p. 100 decrease in mean arterial B.P. Variations of mean capillary pressure, of systemic vascular resistance and of pulmonary arteriolar resistance are not significant.