Propofol

• • Propofol: A Comprehensive Overview**

• • Introduction:**

Propofol is a widely used sedative and anesthetic, primarily employed in human medicine for its rapid onset and short duration of action. It has recently been approved for veterinary use in dogs.

• • Mechanism of Action:**

Propofol functions by binding to GABAA receptors in the central nervous system, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. This interaction leads to effects such as relaxation, loss of consciousness, and amnesia.

• • Advantages:**

• • History:**

Developed by John B. Glen at Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) over 13 years, propofol was first tested in 1973. It faced formulation issues but became a market success as Diprivan in 1986 after reformulation. Glen was awarded the Lasker Award for his contributions.

• • Developments:**

• • Veterinary Uses:**

In November 2024, the FDA approved PropofolVet Multidose for dogs, an injectable anesthetic. Sponsored by Parnell Technologies, it mirrors the brand name drug PropoFlo 28 in formulation and efficacy.

• • Considerations:**

While propofol is effective, it can cause side effects like respiratory depression and hypotension, necessitating careful monitoring during use.

This summary highlights propofol's significance in both human and veterinary medicine, emphasizing its benefits and ongoing developments.