To provide a comprehensive review of the adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with etomidate based on data from the FAERS database, focusing on its impact on adrenal function and other potential complications.
Approach:
Data Acquisition: A retrospective pharmacovigilance study was performed using the U.S. FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database from Q1 2004 to Q2 2025.
Disproportionality Analysis: Disproportionality analysis was conducted using ROR, PRR, BCPNN, and EBGM algorithms to identify ADRs significantly associated with etomidate.
Key Findings:
318 ADRs were identified, with 59 preferred terms and two system organ classes meeting the criteria of all four algorithms.
Novel positive signals included cardiac arrest (n = 33), seizure (n = 12), drug abuse (n = 10), hypokalaemia (n = 9), and bruxism (n = 9).
Cardiac disorders (n = 100) were significantly associated with etomidate, while endocrine disorders (n = 38) were identified as a novel signal.
Interpretation:
The study confirmed known risks and identified novel ADRs of etomidate.
Limitations:
The study relies on retrospective data from the FAERS database, which may not capture all adverse events.
Potential underreporting or misclassification of ADRs in the FAERS database.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate the need for further investigation into the long-term safety profile of etomidate.
