[Experiences with the steroid narcotic alfaxalone/alfadolone (Aurantex) in emergency patients in rescue service]

Prehospital emergency patients, especially with polytrauma and/or severe head injury need sedation for intubation and transportation. The use of relaxant drugs is dangerous under these circumstances. The "ideal drug" for this indication should not have any harmful effects on respiration, circulation, intracranial pressure, and should facilitate intubation. Short action without cumulation is desirable to make an early neurological diagnosis possible. Althesin was studied in our rescue service (ambulance and helicopter) in 133 cases (trauma n = 91, neurologic n = 18, cardiologic n = 12, intoxication n = 12), Althesin facilitated intubation in 129 cases, and was generally sufficient for sedation. Negative side effects were not seen provided althesin was correctly used. The necessity of the preceding use of an antihistaminic drug is emphasized. Althesin should not be used in patients suffering from severe cardiac disease because of its possible negative influence on cardiocirculatory function.