Advantages and guidelines for using ultrashort barbiturates for induction of anesthesia

Despite the introduction of a number of new injectable agents, ultrashort barbiturates continue to be popular. Some of the reasons include rapid, smooth onset of action; predictable hypnotic effects; relatively rapid, smooth recovery; and inexpensiveness. Ultrashort barbiturates also possess some pharmacodynamic properties that make them ideal agents for use in patients with certain diseases or undergoing certain procedures. These include patients with raised intracranial pressure, patients with a history of seizures, patients with corneal lacerations or glaucoma, patients for examination of vocal cord and arytenoid cartilage function, patients with hyperthyroidism, and patients thought to be susceptible to malignant hyperthermia.