Propofol Toxicity

Excerpt

Propofol is a drug commonly used for sedation and the implementation of general anesthesia. It is a phenol derivative given as an intravenous drug. The most common formulation is in a lipophilic emulsion, allowing rapid distribution into the tissues, including across the blood-brain barrier. It is commonly used for sedation in the ICU because it has a short duration of action and rapid clearance. It has dose-dependent effects, leading to higher blood pressure and heart rate changes at higher doses. The initial administration can cause pain at the injection site. Though propofol has a generally favorable profile as a sedative, administering toxic doses can harm a patient’s overall condition. Propofol infusion syndrome (PRIS) is the manifestation of propofol toxicity.