Which of the following side effects are seen with etomidate-
**Core Concept**
Etomidate is a short-acting intravenous anesthetic agent used for the induction of general anesthesia. It has a rapid onset of action and is often preferred in patients with cardiovascular instability. However, etomidate is associated with several side effects due to its mechanism of action, which involves the potentiation of GABA receptors in the central nervous system.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Etomidate's side effects are primarily related to its impact on the adrenal glands and the central nervous system. Adrenal suppression is a well-documented side effect of etomidate, which occurs due to its inhibition of 11-beta-hydroxylase, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of cortisol from 11-deoxycortisol in the adrenal cortex. Myoclonus, a sudden, involuntary contraction of muscle groups, is another side effect of etomidate, which is thought to be related to its effects on the central nervous system. Additionally, etomidate is known to cause pain on intravenous injection, likely due to its formulation and the rate of administration.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Haemodynomic imbalance (HI) is not a commonly reported side effect of etomidate. In fact, etomidate is often preferred in patients with cardiovascular instability due to its minimal impact on blood pressure and cardiac output.
**Option C:** Pain on IV injection is a known side effect of etomidate, but adrenal suppression and haemodynomic imbalance are not typically associated with its use.
**Option D:** Haemodynomic imbalance and myoclonus are not typically reported side effects of etomidate, making this option incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Etomidate is a useful induction agent in patients with cardiovascular instability, but its use should be limited due to the risk of adrenal suppression. A common mnemonic to remember the side effects of etomidate is "MAC": Myoclonus, Adrenal suppression, and **C**ardiovascular stability (not imbalance).
**β Correct Answer: B. Myoclonus, adrenal suppression, pain on IV injection**