Intravenous induction is smooth, fast and pleasant. In search for alternative to thiopentone, various agents such as propofol, etomidate are introduced. AIM OF STUDYPresent study is undertaken to evaluate induction characteristics and haemodynamic responses and side effects of etomidate as an intravenous induction agent in comparison with thiopentone and propofol. MATERIAL AND METHODSSeventy five ASA I and II patients between 18 -50 years undergoing elective surgical procedures were randomly divided in to 3 groups of 25 patients each. Each group received either etomidate or propofol or thiopentone as an induction agent. Time taken for induction, heart rate, blood pressure, pain on injection of drug and severity of myoclonus were recorded. BP and HR recorded at preinduction, after induction at one minute intervals till 5 minutes, thereafter at 5-minute intervals. RESULTSTime taken for induction was almost same in all groups. Heart rate was increased in thiopentone and etomidate groups. Blood pressure was decreased significantly in propofol group whereas blood pressure was well maintained in etomidate group. Pain on injection with etomidate lipuro was much less than propofol. Myoclonic movements were much higher in etomidate group. CONCLUSIONEtomidate is more cardio stable agent.