Propofol
On this page
Propofol is an agent that can be used for sedation and induction and maintenance of general anaesthesia. Propofol has a rapid onset of action and typically fast recovery time with less hangover effects than many other anaesthetic agents.
Mechanism of action
Propofol works via potentiation of GABAA receptors i.e it acts to enhance GABA inhibitory neurotransmission.
It is primarily metabolised by conjugation in the liver.
Propofol time to onset and elimination
- Half life of elimination is 2 to 24 hours however its clinical effects are often much shorter lived due to rapid distribution to the peripheral tissues.
- CNS anaesthesia is typically achieved in around 20 seconds
Mechanism of action
Propofol works via potentiation of GABAA receptors i.e it acts to enhance GABA inhibitory neurotransmission.
It is primarily metabolised by conjugation in the liver.
Side effects
Common side effects:
- Hypotension
- Transient apnoea (respiratory depression)
- Tachycardia (conversely propofol can cause profound bradycardia)
- Arrhythmias
- Hyperventilation
- Headache
- Localised pain on injection
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Flushing
- Epileptiform seizure (may be delayed)
- Pancreatitis
- Propofol infusion syndrome
Propofol is associated with profound hypotension. Caution should be used when using it in patients in hypotensive states. In hypotension there is reduced volume of distribution which enhances the effects of propofol.
The respiratory depressant effect of propofol is enhanced when used in combination with an opiate. If opiate analgesia is required, it should be given prior to propofol and allowed time to become maximally effective before propofol administration