Etomidate administration causes minimal changes in hemodynamic status. It is considered the induction drug of choice in patients with cardiovascular disease, as well as any other patients in whom maintenance of a normal BP is imperative. Slight decreases in BP following administration of etomidate are due to a minor decrease in SVR. What is the effect of etomidate on systemic vascular resistance (SVR)?
1) Increases SVR
2) Decreases SVR
3) No effect on SVR
4) Cannot be determined