[Study of a new anesthetic agent: etomidate (R 26490). Electroencephalographic aspects]

Etomidate or R 26490 is a new hypnotic agent produced by JANSSEN and al. in 1971. The first human experimentation was performed in 1972. The authors used Etomidate for 300 anaesthetics given for neuroradiological investigations. Two protocols were used for study: 25 anaesthetics were given with Etomidate as sole anaesthetic to outline its specific properties; 275 angiographies were performed with a combination of Etomidate and fentanyl. In protocol no. 1, the mean consumption was for 1,85 mg/kg/h, in protocol no. 2, the mean consumption was of 0,9 mg/kg/h. Pharmacological study of this drug defines it as a short acting hypnotic agent of low toxicity. Clinical observation shows cardiovascular and respiratory stability. However, frequent myoclonias were noted, when Etomidate was given as a sole anaesthetic. EEG recording and evoked response encephalography helped to outline some effects of Etomidate on central nervous system.