The influence of sampling site upon the distribution phase kinetics of thiopentone

In six sheep anaesthetised with ketamine blood was sampled from the jugular and femoral veins and the femoral artery at frequent intervals for 12 minutes following the intravenous administration of 5 or 10 mg/kg sodium thiopentone. Samples were also taken from cubital veins and radial arteries of five patients who received 5 mg/kg thiopentone. The plasma concentration of thiopentone was determined by an HPLC assay. The time course of plasma concentration of thiopentone showed considerable variation according to sampling site as well as variation between individuals. Such sampling site-dependent variation may result in the appearance of acute tolerance.