American journal of veterinary research
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Plasma cortisol concentrations were compared in canine surgical patients given etomidate (2 mg/kg of body weight, IV) or thiopental sodium (12 mg/kg, IV) for anesthetic induction. Blood samples to determine plasma concentrations of etomidate were obtained at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12, and 24 hours after induction. Adrenocortical function was evaluated before surgery by use of adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation tests. ⋯ Plasma cortisol concentrations did not correlate with plasma etomidate concentrations. We conclude that, compared with thiopental, a single bolus injection of etomidate reduces the adrenocortical response to anesthesia and surgery from 2 to 6 hours after induction. Because cortisol concentrations were significantly higher than baseline, and because cardiopulmonary function is maintained after a single bolus injection of etomidate, it can be considered a safe induction agent in dogs.