What is the dose of Etomidate for induction?

Etomidate is commonly used for induction in rapid sequence intubation due to its favorable pharmacological profile, including minimal cardiovascular effects and a rapid onset of action. The standard dose for adults typically falls within the range of 0.2 to 0.3 mg/kg.

Choosing a dose of 0.3 mg/kg provides a balance between effectiveness and safety, ensuring adequate sedation without excessive risks of side effects. The pharmacodynamics of etomidate suggest this dosing is sufficient to induce anesthesia while allowing for quick recovery post-procedure, which is particularly important in prehospital or aeromedical settings where rapid patient turnover is often necessary.

Higher doses could potentially lead to prolonged sedation or increased side effects, while lower doses may not achieve the desired level of sedation for successful intubation. Therefore, the choice of 0.3 mg/kg represents a clinically effective and commonly accepted goal for etomidate use during induction.