Comparing Propofol and Esketamine for Intubation in Critically Ill Patients

Propofol Versus Esketamine for Rapid Sequence Intubation in Critically Ill Patients: A Randomized, Multicenter, Unblinded, Clinical Trial

Phase 2 Interventional Federal University of São Paulo · NCT05092152

This study is testing whether Propofol or Esketamine is better for sedating critically ill patients during intubation to see how it affects their recovery right after the procedure.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment170 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorFederal University of São Paulo Academic / other
Locations1 site (São Paulo)
Trial IDNCT05092152 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two sedative agents, Propofol and Esketamine, during rapid-sequence intubation in critically ill patients experiencing acute respiratory failure. The aim is to determine if these agents affect short-term outcomes, particularly hemodynamic stability, after intubation. Participants will be adults who require intubation as indicated by their physician, and the study will compare the outcomes of those receiving either sedative. The research is being conducted at the Federal University of São Paulo.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who require intubation as determined by their physician.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, in cardiac arrest, have known intracranial hypertension, or have allergies to the study medications will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved intubation practices and better patient outcomes in critically ill individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific comparison of Propofol and Esketamine for this purpose may be novel, similar studies on sedative agents in intubation have shown varying degrees of success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age above 18 years old
* Physician indicated intubation

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy
* Intubation during cardiac arrest
* Known of suspected intracranial hypertension
* Known allergy to propofol or esketamine
* Bradycardia (heart rate below 50 beats per minute) or atrioventricular block

Where this trial is running

São Paulo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Acute Respiratory Failure
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.