What is Propofol? Complete Guide to Propofol Injection Uses, Dosage & Safety

TL;DR: Propofol is a rapid-onset, short-acting intravenous anesthetic used for general anesthesia induction/maintenance, ICU sedation, and procedural sedation. It provides smooth induction with minimal side effects when properly administered by trained healthcare professionals.

What is Propofol?

Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is a phenolic compound used as an intravenous anesthetic agent. It was first developed in the 1970s and has become one of the most widely used anesthetics worldwide due to its favorable pharmacokinetic profile.

Key Facts About Propofol

• Chemical Name: 2,6-diisopropylphenol

• Onset: 30-60 seconds after IV administration

• Duration: 5-10 minutes after single bolus dose

• Elimination Half-life: 2-24 hours (context-sensitive)

• Metabolism: Hepatic conjugation and renal excretion

Clinical Uses of Propofol

1. General Anesthesia

Propofol is extensively used for both induction and maintenance of general anesthesia in surgical procedures. Its rapid onset and offset make it ideal for outpatient procedures.

2. ICU Sedation

In intensive care units, propofol provides controllable sedation for mechanically ventilated patients, allowing for rapid awakening when discontinued.

3. Procedural Sedation

Used for conscious sedation during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as endoscopy, cardioversion, and minor surgical procedures.

Dosage and Administration

Propofol dosing varies based on patient factors and clinical indication:

• Induction: 1.5-2.5 mg/kg IV (healthy adults)

• Maintenance: 4-12 mg/kg/hr continuous infusion

• ICU Sedation: 0.3-4.0 mg/kg/hr (titrated to effect)

• Elderly/ASA III-IV: Reduce dose by 25-50%

Safety Profile and Contraindications

While generally safe when properly administered, propofol has important safety considerations:

Common Side Effects:

• Injection site pain (most common)

• Hypotension and bradycardia

• Respiratory depression

• Apnea (temporary)

Contraindications:

• Allergy to propofol, soy, or egg products

• Severe cardiac or respiratory compromise

• Pregnancy (unless benefits outweigh risks)

Quality Manufacturing Standards

At Farbe Firma Pvt Ltd, we manufacture propofol injection under strict WHO-GMP guidelines, ensuring:

• Sterile manufacturing environment

• Rigorous quality control testing

• Consistent potency and purity

• Proper cold chain storage and handling

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How quickly does propofol work?

A: Propofol typically takes effect within 30-60 seconds of intravenous administration, making it one of the fastest-acting anesthetic agents available.

Q: Is propofol safe for outpatient procedures?

A: Yes, propofol's rapid recovery profile makes it excellent for outpatient procedures. Patients typically recover quickly with minimal residual effects.

Q: What monitoring is required during propofol administration?

A: Continuous monitoring of vital signs, oxygen saturation, ECG, and blood pressure is essential. Trained anesthesia providers should always administer propofol.

References and Further Reading

This information is based on current medical literature and WHO guidelines for anesthetic agents. For specific clinical applications, consult with qualified healthcare professionals and refer to current prescribing information.

Last Updated: September 2025 | Expert Review: Dr. Anesthesiology Team, Farbe Firma Pvt Ltd