About propofol ph eur
Intravenous general anaesthetic
Used for
- Induction and maintenance of general anaesthesia
- Sedation during procedures or intensive care
Usual adult dose
Given intravenously by trained clinicians and adjusted to effect; typical induction is 1.5–2.5 mg/kg, with lower doses for older or frail adults.
Usual dose in children
For children over 1 month: induction usually 2.5–3.5 mg/kg; maintenance is adjusted by an anaesthetist. Intensive-care sedation is not recommended under 16.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Breathing suppression or pauses
- Pain at injection site
Important warnings
- Must be administered by clinicians able to manage airway and breathing emergencies.
- Can cause unconsciousness, impaired breathing, and cardiovascular collapse.
- Not for intensive-care sedation in children under 16.
- Contains EDTA; prolonged use may require monitoring of blood minerals.
Pregnancy
Generally avoided during pregnancy unless clearly necessary; use during caesarean delivery requires specialist assessment.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; breastfeeding can usually resume once the mother has recovered from anaesthesia.
Interactions
- Opioids and sedatives can increase sedation and breathing suppression.
- Other anaesthetics may increase blood-pressure lowering and heart effects.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.