[Clinical pharmacology aspects of althesin]

The main pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic features of althesin are described. Though relatively new, this steroid is now widely employed in anaesthesiological practice. From the pharmacological standpoint, the high therapeutic index of althesin, the fact that its metabolic fate is known, its rapid elimination, and the prompt, complete awakening of patients when it is used mean that it can be reliably employed in all forms of surgery and on all types of patient. The absolute contraindications coincide with those preventing the employment of general anaesthesia in any form, while the relative contraindications, i.e. those involving particular care in its administration, are linked to the presence of diseases interfering with its mechanism and elimination, the existence of allergy, or cardiovascular disorders of a fairly substantial nature. Althesin, in fact, while not responsible for frank cardiovascular changes, cannot be regarded as entirely innocuous. In other words, it is subject to the same limitations as the barbituric and non-barbituric drugs commonly employed in the i.v. induction of anaesthesia.