About propofol
Intravenous general anesthetic
Used for
- Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia
- Sedation during procedures or intensive care
Usual adult dose
Anesthesia induction is usually 1.5–2.5 mg/kg IV, titrated; maintenance commonly 4–12 mg/kg/hour. Sedation doses vary by setting.
Usual dose in children
For anesthesia, usually 2.5–3.5 mg/kg IV for induction; maintenance commonly 9–15 mg/kg/hour, titrated by specialists.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Breathing suppression or apnea
- Injection-site pain
Important warnings
- Must be given by trained clinicians with airway and resuscitation equipment available.
- Can cause profound breathing and circulation problems, especially with other sedatives or opioids.
- Long or high-dose infusions can cause potentially fatal propofol infusion syndrome.
- Contains lipid; account for calories and monitor triglycerides during prolonged infusion.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically necessary; adequate human safety data are limited. Propofol crosses the placenta and may affect the newborn.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; brief use generally requires no interruption of breastfeeding, subject to clinical guidance.
Interactions
- Opioids, benzodiazepines, and other sedatives increase sedation and breathing suppression.
- Blood-pressure-lowering medicines may worsen low blood pressure.
- Alcohol can increase central nervous system depression.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.