What is the maximum dose of Etomidate for pediatric induction?

• A. 20 mg
• B. 40 mg
• C. 10 mg
• D. 60 mg

Answer: (A)

Etomidate dosing for pediatric induction is weight-based at about 0.3 mg/kg, but there is a cap to prevent overshoot in larger children. The single-dose maximum is 20 mg. This means most kids receive a dose proportional to their weight, yet never more than 20 mg. For example, a 25 kg child would get about 7.5 mg, while a 60 kg adolescent would be near 18 mg—still under the cap. If a child’s weight would require more than 20 mg by the 0.3 mg/kg rule, you stop at 20 mg. Higher amounts, like 40 or 60 mg, would exceed the safe maximum and increase risks such as prolonged adrenal suppression and other adverse effects. A smaller child might receive around 10 mg, but that isn’t the maximum dose; the limit is 20 mg.