Propofol is a short-acting intravenous anesthetic primarily used for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, sedation for mechanically ventilated adults, and procedural sedation. It works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors, leading to sedative, hypnotic, and amnestic effects. Its rapid onset and quick recovery profile make it a preferred agent in various clinical settings.
Propofol is formulated as an emulsion for intravenous injection. It is highly lipid-soluble, allowing for quick penetration into the central nervous system, resulting in rapid sedation. The drug's effects are dose-dependent, and careful titration is essential to achieve the desired level of anesthesia or sedation.
The generic name of propofol is "Propofol." Common brand names include:
This medication is typically supplied as an injectable emulsion in vials or prefilled syringes. When purchasing or administering, verify that the label indicates propofol as the active ingredient and check the manufacturer information to ensure safety.
Propofol is classified as a short-acting intravenous anesthetic agent. It belongs to the phenol derivative class and acts primarily on GABA-A receptors to produce sedation and hypnosis. Its rapid onset and short duration of action make it suitable for induction and maintenance of anesthesia.
While generally well-tolerated, propofol can cause hypotension and respiratory depression, especially if administered rapidly or in high doses. It is not suitable for long-term sedation without proper monitoring due to the risk of propofol infusion syndrome.
Propofol is indicated for:
In some cases, it may be combined with opioids or other agents to enhance sedation. It is not recommended for use in patients with hypersensitivity to propofol or its components.
Minor side effects include:
Serious adverse reactions are rare but require immediate attention:
Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to propofol or related agents. Prior to use, inform your healthcare provider of any allergies, cardiovascular disease, or metabolic disorders. Use during pregnancy should be carefully evaluated by a physician for risks and benefits.
This medication may impair the ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should avoid such activities immediately after administration. Patients with liver or kidney impairment may require dose adjustments, which should be determined by a healthcare professional.
Concurrent use with the following medications may increase the risk of adverse effects:
Using with other central nervous system depressants, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, may increase the risk of respiratory depression. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.
The dose depends on the extent of anesthesia and patient weight. The maximum adult single dose is generally not to exceed 3-4 mg/kg for induction, with maintenance doses titrated to effect. Administer via slow intravenous injection or infusion under strict aseptic conditions. Do not administer orally or subcutaneously.
Common administration methods include:
As propofol is administered in medical settings, patients typically do not self-administer doses. If a dose is missed during a procedure, inform your healthcare provider immediately for re-evaluation and adjustment. Do not attempt to self-administer additional doses to avoid overdose and adverse effects.
Overdose may result in severe CNS depression, respiratory arrest, or cardiovascular collapse. Immediate medical attention is required. Supportive measures include:
Propofol must be administered by trained healthcare professionals under continuous monitoring of vital signs. Prior to administration, assess the patient's cardiopulmonary status and have emergency equipment ready, such as for managing hypotension or respiratory depression. The injection rate should be adjusted based on the patient's age, weight, and response to minimize risks.
What should be done if hypotension occurs after using propofol?Hypotension is a common side effect of propofol. Healthcare providers typically manage it by adjusting the infusion rate, administering intravenous fluids, or using vasopressors. Patients are monitored in recovery for at least 30 minutes until blood pressure stabilizes before transfer to a regular ward.
Which medications increase the risk of adverse effects when combined with propofol?Concurrent use of opioids or benzodiazepines can enhance respiratory depression and increase the risk of hypoventilation. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking, especially anticoagulants or immunosuppressants, to avoid drug interactions.
What precautions should be taken for daily activities after propofol anesthesia?Patients should avoid operating machinery or signing important documents for at least 24 hours post-anesthesia, as residual sedation or impaired judgment may occur. It is recommended to start with a liquid diet within 2-4 hours and have someone accompany you during activities to prevent falls or coordination issues.
How can injection site pain caused by propofol be alleviated?Injecting propofol can cause vascular pain. Healthcare providers often use larger veins and control the injection speed to reduce irritation. If pain persists, cold compresses or analgesics may be used as advised by a doctor. Avoid rubbing the injection site to prevent tissue damage.
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