InjectionClinical Overview
Propofol is an ultra-short-acting alkylphenol intravenous general anesthetic on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. It acts by positive allosteric modulation of GABAA receptors, slowing channel closing time and potentiating GABA-mediated inhibitory synaptic currents, while inhibiting NMDA receptors. Features exceptionally rapid onset (around 30 seconds) and fast recovery without residual "hangover." Indicated for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, sedation for surgical/diagnostic procedures, and sedation of mechanically ventilated ICU adults.
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients
Verified Clinical References
Usage Guidelines
Administered solely by trained anesthesiologists or intensive care specialists via slow intravenous injection or titrated continuous IV infusion using an automated infusion pump. Continuous cardiopulmonary monitoring is mandatory. Strictly maintain aseptic technique; single-use emulsion vials must be discarded within 12 hours of opening.
General Administration Advice: Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage, frequency, and treatment course. For oral medications, swallow with sufficient water. Never stop antibiotics, psychiatric medications, or antihypertensives abruptly without clinical direction.
Possible Side Effects
Common: Marked injection site pain (minimized with IV lidocaine), hypotension, transient apnea, bradycardia, involuntary muscle movements. Rare/Severe: Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS: metabolic acidosis, rhabdomyolysis, hyperkalemia, hepatomegaly, renal failure, cardiac arrest), profound cardiovascular collapse, and pancreatitis.
*Note: Individual physiological responses vary. While many patients experience few or no side effects, notify your treating physician if adverse reactions persist or if hypersensitivity (angioedema, skin rash, dyspnea) occurs.
Precautions & Warnings
Black box warning: Administer only by persons trained in general anesthesia not involved in the surgical/diagnostic procedure. Strict restriction on infusion rate and duration (< 4-5 mg/kg/hr for < 48 hours) to prevent fatal Propofol Infusion Syndrome. Contraindicated in egg or soy allergy.
Schedule H (Prescription Required)
This medication is scheduled under statutory drug regulatory frameworks (CDSCO / Drugs & Cosmetics Rules). Dispensing requires a valid medical prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Self-medication or unsupervised dosage adjustment carries significant clinical risks.
Medical Disclaimer: Statutory Clinical Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and price-transparency purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Always consult a registered medical practitioner or qualified pharmacist before initiating, modifying, or substituting any medication regimen.