Etomidate's effect on respiration is best described as which of the following?

Etomidate's effect on respiration is best described as which of the following?

• A. Mild respiratory depression
• B. Severe respiratory depression
• C. Bronchospasm
• D. No effect on respiration

Answer: (A)

Etomidate is known for preserving ventilation better than many induction agents. At typical induction doses it tends to cause only mild respiratory depression while maintaining spontaneous breathing and airway reflexes. Apnea can occur if the dose is given rapidly or as a large bolus, but overall the effect on respiration is not profound. Bronchospasm is not a common outcome with etomidate, and it does not have no effect on respiration—the respiratory depression is present but usually mild. Therefore the description of mild respiratory depression best fits its normal effect.

Etomidate is known for preserving ventilation better than many induction agents. At typical induction doses it tends to cause only mild respiratory depression while maintaining spontaneous breathing and airway reflexes. Apnea can occur if the dose is given rapidly or as a large bolus, but overall the effect on respiration is not profound. Bronchospasm is not a common outcome with etomidate, and it does not have no effect on respiration—the respiratory depression is present but usually mild. Therefore the description of mild respiratory depression best fits its normal effect.