Propofol versus Etomidate for Induction of Anesthesia in Adult Surgical Patients: A Randomized Study

Background: Induction of general anesthesia is frequently associated with hemodynamic fluctuations, which may be clinically significant, particularly in susceptible patients. Propofol and etomidate are commonly used intravenous induction agents with differing cardiovascular effects. This study aimed to compare the hemodynamic responses and adverse effect profile of propofol and etomidate during induction of anesthesia in adult surgical patients. Material and Methods: This prospective, randomized study included 60 adult patients (ASA physical status III) scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups: Group P received propofol (2 mg/kg) and Group E received etomidate (0.3 mg/kg) for induction. Heart rate and mean arterial pressure were recorded at baseline, after induction, immediately after intubation, and at 1, 3, 5, and 10 minutes post-intubation. Adverse events such as hypotension, bradycardia, pain on injection, myoclonus, and need for vasopressor support were documented. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate parametric and non-parametric tests, with a p value