Title:Novel Etomidate Derivatives
Volume: 18
Issue: 38
Author(s): J. Robert Sneyd
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Etomidate, MOC-etomidate, carboetomidate, MOC-carboetomidate, propofol, midazolam
Abstract: Etomidate is a well established intravenous anaesthetic agent which has been widely used. Recognised limitations of the agent
include adrenocortical suppression, myoclonus and post-operative nausea and vomiting, PONV. MOC-etomidate, carboetomidate and
MOC-carboetomidate are novel etomidate derivatives. Their preclinical data and their potential for human administration are critically
reviewed. ‘Soft’ pharmacology (rapid ester hydrolysis) limits the duration of action of MOC-etomidate and MOC-carboetomidate giving
them rapid offset after administration is discontinued. Adrenocortical depression is minimised either by ester hydrolysis or by structural
change to the etomidate molecule. Potential limitations include the yet to be determined incidence of myoclonus and PONV if these new
agents are administered to humans.
