skip to main content

Esmolol short duration — FRCA Primary MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModeratePharmacologyEsmolol short durationFRCA Primary

A patient develops tachycardia and hypertension during emergence after carotid surgery. Esmolol is selected because the clinician wants a rapidly titratable β-blocker. Which feature explains its short duration?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Ester hydrolysis in red blood cells

Esmolol is hydrolysed by red blood cell esterases, giving a very short duration and allowing rapid titration. Hepatic cytochrome metabolism is more relevant to many longer-acting β-blockers. Renal tubular secretion and biliary excretion are not the key determinants. Its short action is useful when excessive β-blockade would be hazardous.

Reference: Peck, Hill & Williams Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care