Figure 2From: Adrenocortical suppression and recovery after continuous hypnotic infusion: etomidate versus its soft analogue cyclopropyl-methoxycarbonyl metomidateSchematic diagrams depicting the protocols used for assessing adrenocortical function (a) during or (b) after hypnotic infusion. (a) A baseline blood sample was drawn and the hypnotic infusion was begun. Ninety minutes after beginning the infusion, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) was administered and a second blood sample was drawn at the end of the infusion 30 minutes later. (b) A baseline blood sample was drawn and the hypnotic infusion was begun. Upon completion of the 120-minute hypnotic infusion, ACTH dose was repetitively administered and a blood sample was drawn every 30 minutes. For clarity, dexamethasone administration is not shown.Back to article page