A method for implementing programmed infusion of thiopentone and methohexitone with a simple infusion pump

We have tabulated the series of steps in infusion rate required to maintain constant arterial levels of thiopentone and methohexitone. The tables are based on multiexponential equations for infusion rate, derived from plasma drug efflux studies. In each table an initial bolus is followed by nine steps in infusion rate over three hours. The tables provide rates suitable for delivery by a standard syringe pump to achieve and maintain an arterial concentration of 10 mg/l of thiopentone and 5 mg/l of methohexitone. Other desired drug concentrations can be derived from the table by simple multiplication.