Which statement about Etomidate dosing is true?

• A. Adult IV/IO dose ranges from 0.15 to 0.3 mg/kg
• B. Pediatric dose is fixed at 0.5 mg/kg
• C. It is administered intranasally only
• D. Dosing is contraindicated in hypotension

Answer: (A)

Etomidate is used for rapid induction because it tends to preserve cardiovascular stability, so the dosing is focused on achieving a quick, smooth onset without dropping blood pressure. For adults, the usual IV or IO induction dose sits around 0.3 mg/kg, and many protocols allow a practical range from about 0.15 to 0.3 mg/kg to tailor to the patient’s size and condition. This range reflects how clinicians dose the drug to balance rapid hypnosis with safety.

Pediatric dosing isn’t a fixed 0.5 mg/kg; it’s typically similar to adults or slightly adjusted (often around 0.2–0.3 mg/kg, depending on the protocol and patient factors). Etomidate isn’t given intranasally in standard practice for induction. And dosing isn’t contraindicated in hypotension; it’s chosen in part for its relatively stable hemodynamics, though clinicians remain mindful of other effects like potential adrenal suppression with repeated dosing.