Inject intravenous induction agents over 30 seconds (>60 seconds in the elderly).
Titrate the dose to effect.
Respiratory depression occurs following induction of anaesthesia and ventilation should be supported as required.
Administer at appropriate doses, after consideration of patient factors, surgical factors and contraindications:
- Propofol is the most widely used IV induction agent but can produce hypotension.
- Etomidate or ketamine is preferred in haemodynamically unstable patients.
- Thiopental has a rapid onset, is contraindicated in porphyria and may be preferred for Caesarean deliveries.
- Propofol, IV, 1.5–2.5 mg/kg.
- 6-12 mg/kg/hour IV infusion for maintenance, if volatile agent use contraindicated.
- Etomidate, IV, 0.3 mg/kg (0.2-0.6 mg/kg)
- Ketamine, IV, 1–2 mg/kg.
- Thiopental, IV, 3–5 mg/kg.