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Propofol

Uses of Propofol

  • Propofol is used to help you relax or sleep before and during surgery or other medical procedures. It is primarily used to induce and maintain general anesthesia during surgeries. Propofol may also be used for sedation during medical tests or for patients on mechanical ventilation in the ICU.

Side effects of Propofol

  • Pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site

  • Low blood pressure

  • Slow heart rate

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness

How Propofol works

  • Propofol is a general anaesthetic. It works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. This means it amplifies the action of a chemical messenger (GABA) which helps to slow down brain activity. By potentiating (strengthening) GABA receptors, Propofol increases chloride ion influx into neurons, leading to hyperpolarization and decreased neuronal excitability.

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Written By

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Dr Nikita LoboMedical Editor & Reviewer| 8 years

BDS, MDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Chhavi Rosha
Dr. Chhavi Rosha Health & Medical Content Writer| 9 years

BMS, FMC, MD Resident

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

  • Propofol is available for administration via the intravenous route (injectable emulsion).

Age and Dose Restrictions

  • This medicine is meant for adults and children above 3 years of age.

Contraindications

  • Propofol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Propofol or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of Propofol infusion syndrome.

Other Medications to Avoid

  • Propofol may interact with opioids (such as morphine and fentanyl), benzodiazepines (such as diazepam and alprazolam), barbiturates (like phenobarbital), antipsychotics (like haloperidol) and antidepressants (like amitriptyline).

Overdose and Missed Dose

  • An overdose of Propofol may cause profound sedation, leading to respiratory depression or arrest. If such symptoms occur, inform your doctor immediately.

  • Since Propofol is administered by a healthcare professional in a controlled setting, a missed dose scenario is unlikely.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

  • For pain or redness at the injection site, applying a cold compress may help.

  • In case of dizziness or lightheadedness, lie down until you feel better.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

  • Propofol produces rapid unconsciousness after administration. Therefore, it severely impairs your ability to drive or operate machinery post-administration.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

  • It is advised to consult your doctor before using Propofol during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

  • Patients with severe liver or kidney impairment should exercise caution when receiving Propofol as it may impact medicine clearance.

  • Patients with mitochondrial disorders should also be cautious, as Propofol may trigger potentially fatal metabolic reactions.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

  • As the effects of anaesthesia can linger, it is recommended to refrain from engaging in vigorous physical activities for a few days post-surgery.

  • Adequate rest and hydration are crucial for a speedy recovery.

Frequently asked questions

No, Propofol is not a steroid. It is a general anaesthetic used to induce and maintain anaesthesia during surgical procedures.

Yes, Propofol can affect sleep as it acts on the central nervous system to slow down activity, causing sedation and sleepiness. However, it is not used as a sleep aid in clinical practice.

There is no known effect of Propofol on fertility. However, each individual may respond differently to medicines and therefore you should consult your doctor for any concerns related to fertility.

Propofol is not intended for daily use or long-term use. It is used for short-term sedation during surgical procedures or other medical procedures and is administered under medical supervision.

Propofol works quite quickly. It starts working within seconds of administration and its effects typically last only a short time.

Propofol is administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital or surgical setting, so there's no 'best time' for you as a patient to take it. The administration time would be decided by your doctor based on the procedure you are undergoing.

The duration of treatment with Propofol is typically short-term and depends on the length of your surgical or medical procedure.

Terms & Conditions

Available medicines for PROPOFOL
Profol Spiva 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Profol Spiva 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Claris Lifesciences Limited
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₹600
MRP ₹750
20% OFF
Profol 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
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₹190.65
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Fresofol 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Fresofol 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
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Pack of 50 ML
₹400
MRP ₹500
20% OFF
Proanes 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Proanes 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Zydus Cadila
Pack of 50 ML
₹338
MRP ₹422.5
20% OFF
Profol 10 MG Infusion 100 ML
Profol 10 MG Infusion 100 ML
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Pack of 100 ML
₹536
MRP ₹670
20% OFF
Rapifol 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Rapifol 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
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Pack of 50 ML
₹245.13
MRP ₹306.41
20% OFF
Neorof 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Neorof 10 MG Infusion 50 ML
Neon Laboratories Ltd
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₹242.54
MRP ₹482
49.68% OFF

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