The effects of a rapid increase in inspired desflurane concentration on systemic haemodynamics and plasma catecholamines were studied in seven pigs (22-30 kg). Following premedication (flunitrazepam 0.4 mg/kg i.m.), anaesthesia was induced (propofol 2.5 mg/kg i.v., vecuronium 0.2 mg/kg i.v.), the trachea orally intubated, and ventilation controlled. Anaesthesia was maintained with N2O/O2 (70%/30%), propofol (50 micrograms/kg/min), desflurane (2% end-tidal concentration), and vecuronium (0.3 mg/kg/h). After cannulation of both femoral arteries for subsequent simultaneous systemic pressure measurements and blood sampling for determination of epinephrine (E) and norepinephrine (NE) plasma levels, N2O and propofol were discontinued, and FiO2 and end-tidal concentration of desflurane increased to > 0.9 and 3%, respectively. Forty minutes later, the inspired concentration of desflurane was abruptly increased to 15%. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and plasma concentrations of E and NE were determined before and 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 min after increasing the desflurane concentration. Plasma concentrations of E and NE were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrochemical detection. Data were analysed by repeated measures ANOVA (significance level P < 0.05). The abrupt increase in inspired desflurane concentration caused an insignificant increase (11%) in HR at 1, 2 and 4 min. There was an immediate decrease in MAP. Plasma levels of E and NE remained unchanged throughout. In conclusion, in contrast to findings in humans, a rapid increase in inspired desflurane concentration does not cause a hyperdynamic circulatory response in the pig.