Propofol
Propofol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Propofol is a brand name. Its generic name is Propofol.
Propofol Introduction
Propofol is an intravenously administered short-acting anesthetic agent used for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia and for procedural sedation. It is a clear and colorless, oil-in-water emulsion supplied in a single-use, premixed form for intravenous administration.Uses for Propofol
Propofol is used to induce and maintain anesthesia, along with the adjuncts of nitrous oxide and oxygen. It is also used for sedation and treatment of status epilepticus.Mechanism of Action
Propofol works primarily by binding to and activating the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor complex. This increases chloride ion conductance, resulting in a hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, which decreases neuronal hyperexcitability and leads to sedation and decreased muscle tone.How Long Does It Take to Work
Propofol starts working immediately when it is administered intravenously. Its effects can last for a few minutes or several hours depending on the amount administered, the person's sensitivity to the drug, and the other medications given.Absorption
Propofol is administered intravenously and is not absorbed after oral administration.Route of Elimination
Propofol is metabolized primarily by the liver prior to excretion via the kidneys. Approximately 70% of the drug is excreted in the urine with the remainder being eliminated via the bile.Dosage
The recommended dose of propofol for induction of general anesthesia is 1.5 to 2.5 mg/kg body weight injected slowly over 20 to 40 seconds. Maintenance doses may be administered as required; however, 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg body weight should not be exceeded. Intravenous bolus doses of propofol may be given in increments of 0.5 to 1 mg/kg of body weight.Administration
Propofol may be administered intravenously by slow injection over 20 to 40 seconds. It is also available as an intravenous infusion and may be used for anaesthesia or sedation. In adults, the infusion rate should not exceed 50 to 75 mg/kg/h. In paediatrics, the infusion rate should not exceed 4 mg/kg/min.Side Effect
Common side effects associated with propofol use may include injection site pain, hypotension, bradycardia, dizziness, headache, tachycardia, nausea, and vomiting. Other side effects such as yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), evidence of infection at the injection site, or difficulty breathing should be reported to a doctor immediately.Toxicity
Propofol is generally well tolerated in low doses. However, at higher doses or with prolonged use propofol can accumulate in the body resulting in an increased risk of toxicity, which may include respiratory depression, hypotension (low blood pressure), arrhythmia, and heart failure.Precaution
Before using propofol, it is important to tell your doctor if you have any allergies or if you have any other medical conditions such as heart problems, asthma, liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.Interaction
Propofol may interact with other medications such as benzodiazepines, opioids, and neuromuscular blocking agents. The dosage of propofol may need to be adjusted.Disease Interaction
Propofol may interact with certain diseases such as liver or kidney disease, asthma, or cardiovascular disease. People with these conditions should talk to their doctor before using propofol.Drug Interaction
Propofol may interact with other drugs, such as benzodiazepines, opioids, and neuromuscular blocking agents. The dosage of propofol may need to be adjusted.Food Interaction
Propofol should not be taken with food, as this may decrease its effectiveness.Pregnancy Use
Propofol should not be used during pregnancy, as it could potentially cause harm to an unborn baby.Lactation Use
Propofol should not be used while breastfeeding as it could potentially affect the nursing baby.Acute Overdose
An acute overdose of propofol can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, bradycardia, and coma.Contraindication
Propofol should not be used in people who are allergic to it or any of its components. It should also not be used in people with certain medical conditions such as a compromised respiratory system or liver and kidney diseases.Use Direction
Propofol should be administered in an intravenous infusion and the rate of infusion should not exceed 50 to 75 mg/kg/h in adults and 4 mg/kg/min in pediatrics. The maximum total dose should not exceed 2 mg/kg of body weight.Storage Condition
Propofol should be stored at a controlled room temperature between 25 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius and should not be frozen. It should also be stored away from direct sunlight, inquire or extreme temperatures.Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of propofol is approximately 0.7 to 1.5 L/kg.Half Life
The half-life of propofol is approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours.Clearance
The clearance of propofol is approximately 0.20 to 0.25 L/h/kg.Here you find in details version of Propofol
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Propofol
What is Propofol?
Propofol is an intravenous sedative/hypnotic agent used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia or sedation for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
What medical purposes is Propofol used for?
Propofol is commonly used for anesthesia during medical procedures, such as surgery, or to induce a coma-like state in intensive care units.
What is the chemical formula for Propofol?
The chemical formula of Propofol is C12H18O.
Who manufactures Propofol?
Propofol is manufactured by AstraZeneca and pharmaceutical companies such as Hospira and Mylan.
What is the generic name for Propofol?
The generic name for Propofol is Diprivan.
Does Propofol have any side effects?
Propofol can cause some side effects such as dizziness, low blood pressure, respiratory depression, slowed heart rate, confusion, discomfort around the injection area, and non-allergic reactions like hives or itching.
Does Propofol have any contraindications?
Propofol has contraindications for use in patients with certain conditions, including allergies to existing medical conditions, medications, or foods.
What is the maximum dose of Propofol that can be safely administered?
The maximum recommended dose of Propofol is 4 mg/kg body weight/hour for adults, and 2 mg/kg body weight/hour for children.
Can Propofol be used in pediatric patients?
Yes, Propofol can be used in pediatric patients, however, lower doses must be given depending on the age and size of the patient.
Are there any conditions in which Propofol should not be used?
Propofol should not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney diseases, uncontrolled seizures, or those with a history of substance abuse.
How long does it take for Propofol to take effect?
The induction time for Propofol is approximately 20 seconds and the recovery time is about 10 minutes.
Is Propofol an opioid?
No, Propofol is not an opioid. It is a sedative-hypnotic drug.
Can Propofol be used in patients with allergies?
It is not recommended to use Propofol in patients with allergies to certain medications, foods, preservatives or dyes.
Can Propofol be used as a conscious sedation?
Yes, Propofol can be used as a conscious sedation during certain procedures, such as endoscopies or imaging studies.
What are the storage requirements for Propofol?
Propofol should be stored in a tightly sealed container. It should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. It should also be kept away from children and pets.
Can Propofol be mixed with other medications?
Propofol should not be mixed with other medications and should be administered separately. If necessary, Propofol can be mixed with certain substances, such as dextrose, sodium chloride or lidocaine, but only with the direction of a healthcare provider.
Is there a risk of overdose with Propofol?
Yes, there is a risk of overdose with Propofol if too high a dose is administered or if it is taken in combination with other drugs.
What are the signs of an overdose on Propofol?
The signs of an overdose on Propofol may include changes in heart rate, difficulty breathing, confusion, loss of consciousness, and coma.
What is the difference between Propofol and midazolam?
Propofol is an intravenous sedative-hypnotic drug used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia or sedation. Midazolam is a short-acting benzodiazepine used for induction of anesthesia or for sedation during medical procedures.
What is the half-life of Propofol?
The half-life of Propofol is approximately 4-20 minutes.
Is Propofol compatible with breastfeeding?
It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking Propofol as it can cause drowsiness and confusion in the infant.
Can Propofol interact with other medications?
Yes, Propofol can interact with other medications, such as certain antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antihistamines, narcotics, and muscle relaxants.
What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction while taking Propofol?
If you experience an allergic reaction while taking Propofol, stop taking the medication immediately and seek medical attention.
How can I tell if Propofol is working?
Propofol may cause drowsiness, slowed breathing, and a slowed heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking Propofol, it is working.
Can Propofol cause respiratory depression?
Yes, Propofol can cause respiratory depression in certain individuals, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. This is why it is essential that Propofol is administered by a trained and certified healthcare professional.
How long does Propofol stay in the system?
The effects of Propofol can last up to an hour, however, the drug can be detectable in the body for up to 24 hours.
Is Propofol habit-forming?
Propofol is not habit-forming, however, it can cause physical and psychological dependence in some individuals.
Can Propofol cause withdrawal symptoms?
Yes, Propofol can cause withdrawal symptoms in individuals taking high doses for extended periods of time. Common withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, seizure, tremors, and decreased tolerance to medications.
What is the difference between Propofol and opioids?
Propofol is an intravenous sedative-hypnotic drug used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia or sedation, whereas opioids are narcotic pain medications that can be addictive and cause physical dependence.
Are there any long-term effects of taking Propofol?
Possible long-term effects of Propofol may include headaches, depression, difficulty sleeping, nausea, and dizziness.
What precautionary measures should be taken when administering Propofol?
When administering Propofol, the healthcare provider should ensure proper dosage and patient monitoring, pay attention for signs of respiratory depression, be aware of possible allergic reactions, and be prepared to respond to any emergency that might arise.
Can Propofol be used in combination with Local Anesthesia?
Yes, Propofol can be used in combination with local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, to provide a deeper level of sedation.
Is Propofol a controlled substance?
Yes, Propofol is a Schedule 2 controlled substance in the United States.
What is the shelf life of Propofol?
The shelf life of Propofol is 2 years from the date of manufacture.
Does Propofol need to be refrigerated?
No, Propofol does not need to be refrigerated, however, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.
Can Propofol be taken orally?
No, Propofol must be administered intravenously and cannot be taken orally.
Is Propofol covered by insurance?
It depends on the insurance provider. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of Propofol, while others may not.
What is the cost of Propofol?
The cost of Propofol may vary depending on the manufacturer, strength, and quantity purchased. It is best to contact your healthcare provider for more information.
What should be done in the event of an overdose on Propofol?
In the event of an overdose on Propofol, seek medical attention immediately. An antidote such as flumazenil may be administered to reverse the effects of the drug.
What is the onset and duration of action of Propofol?
The onset of action of Propofol is approximately 20 seconds, with effects lasting approximately 10 minutes.
Can Propofol cause liver damage?
Yes, there is a risk of liver damage with prolonged use of Propofol, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver disease.
Does Propofol have any interactions with alcohol?
Yes, Propofol can interact with alcohol and other sedatives, such as benzodiazepines. It is important to avoid alcohol while taking Propofol.
What is the onset and duration of action of Propofol?
The onset of action of Propofol is approximately 20 seconds, with effects lasting approximately 10 minutes.
What is the recommended dosage of Propofol?
The recommended dosage of Propofol is 2-4 mg/kg body weight/hour for adults and 0.5-2 mg/kg body weight/hour for children, depending on the age and size of the patient.
What are the potential risks associated with Propofol?
Potential risks associated with Propofol may include respiratory depression, low blood pressure, slowed heart rate, confusion, and dizziness.