Which statement about Etomidate induction dosage is correct?

• A. Etomidate 0.3 mg/kg IV/IO max 20 mg
• B. Etomidate 0.6 mg/kg IV/IO max 40 mg
• C. Etomidate 0.1 mg/kg IV/IO max 10 mg
• D. Etomidate 0.9 mg/kg IV/IO max 60 mg

Answer: (A)

Etomidate is used for rapid sequence induction because it acts quickly and tends to maintain cardiovascular stability. The standard induction dose is 0.3 mg/kg given IV or IO, with a maximum total dose of 20 mg. This weight-based dose reliably produces loss of consciousness within seconds to a minute without excessive hemodynamic compromise, and the 20 mg cap helps prevent overdose in larger patients.

Doses around 0.6 mg/kg would deliver roughly double the amount, increasing the risk of prolonged sedation, apnea, and other adverse effects without added benefit in this setting. A much lower dose, such as 0.1 mg/kg, is typically insufficient for reliable induction, and a dose as high as 0.9 mg/kg would be unsafe and far above the recommended maximum.