ICU Drugs · GABA-A agonist (general anaesthetic)
Propofol
Dose
Induction 1.5–2.5 mg/kg IV; ICU sedation 0.3–4 mg/kg/h
Mechanism
Enhances GABA-mediated inhibition; rapid sedation / hypnosis
Indications
- • ICU sedation
- • Induction of anaesthesia
- • Status epilepticus (refractory)
Contraindications
- • Egg / soy allergy (caution)
- • Haemodynamic instability
Use
Rapid-on / rapid-off sedation; titratable.
Monitoring
BP (hypotension common), TG (long-term), CK (PRIS), lactate.
Side effects
- • Hypotension
- • Apnoea on induction
- • Propofol infusion syndrome (>4 mg/kg/h >48 h)
- • Hypertriglyceridaemia
- • Green urine
Related in WardRound
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
