Risks of a propofol administration

The risks include first and foremost the possible side effects (see above: side effects of Propofol), in other words, in brief: A further risk is the potential for abuse due to the euphoric and relaxing effect. A psychological dependence can develop. Persons with professional activities in the medical field are primarily affected by this.

Small therapeutic width, danger of over/underdosage
Blood pressure drop
Inhibition of the respiratory drive and the heartbeat
The rare Propofol infusion syndrome (cardiac, renal dysfunction, dissolution of muscles)

Contraindications

Absolute contraindications for the use of Propofol are circulatory insufficiency and hypovolemia, i.e. a lack of fluid in the body. During the course of application, blood pressure may drop, which can have dangerous consequences in such complicated conditions. To date, there is not enough data on use during pregnancy and lactation.

However, it is not recommended. Children under 16 years of age in intensive care should also not be sedated with Propofol. Here too, the effects are not sufficiently known.

Manufacturers advise against the use of Propofol in the case of soya allergy. According to the latest findings, however, this contraindication should be viewed less critically. Propofol is one of the most common narcotics used in general anaesthesia.

In combination with a short-acting painkiller, e.g. remifentanil or sufentanil, and, depending on the operation, a muscle relaxant, e.g. rocuronium, it is used to induce and maintain anaesthesia during a surgical procedure. After injecting the initial dose, which depends on body weight and age, a continuous continuous infusion is administered.

In this way, a constant blood level is achieved. So-called syringe pumps are computer-controlled and ensure that the infusion of Propofol is evenly distributed. At the same time, they have the advantage that the depth of anaesthesia can be quickly changed by the responsible anaesthetist as required.

Ventilation and intubation are performed after loss of consciousness and cancellation of reflexes. Heart and circulation parameters are continuously monitored during the procedure. The anaesthesia can be terminated by slowly reducing the amount of anaesthetic medication. The patient wakes up again within a few minutes.