A case of propylene glycol toxic reaction associated with etomidate infusion

Abstract

For the treatment of postoperative seizures and prevention of brain edema, an etomidate drip was used in conjunction with phenytoin, diazepam, pentobarbital, and phenobarbital in a 70-year-old woman. During a period of 24 hours, the patient received in excess of 479 g of propylene glycol, which was present at 35% (vol/vol) concentration in the undiluted etomidate. The propylene glycol toxic reaction resolved after the infusion was stopped.