A new highly potent and short-acting analgesic, carfentanyl (R 33799), in combination with the hypnotic agent, etomidat (R 26490), as a method of anaesthesia in guinea pigs.

Anaesthesia in guinea pigs with a new highly potent and short-acting analgesic, carfentanyl (R 33799), combined with the hypnotic, etomidat (R 26490), is reported. Clinical observations as well as respiratory and circulatory variables have revealed this combination to be safe. Profound surgical anaesthesia has been obtained with good sedation, analgesia, and immobilisation. This method has been evaluated clinically and can be recommended with confidence in this species.