Universal Ramblings

Propofol is a drug that reduces anxiety and tension, and promotes relaxation and sleep or loss of consciousness. Propofol provides loss of awareness for short diagnostic tests and surgical procedures, sleep at the beginning of surgery, and supplements other types of general anesthetics.

Propofol is a very short-acting drug, and its effects generally wear off in just a few hours. However, propofol may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery for several hours after use. Do not attempt to drive yourself home if you have received propofol for minor outpatient surgery or diagnostic tests.

Avoid alcohol, mood-altering drugs, or any other medicines for at least 24 hours after a dose of propofol, unless approved by your prescriber or health care professional.

Propofol is for injection into a vein. It is given by trained anesthesia professionals in a controlled environment.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Side effects that you should report to your health care professional as soon as possible:

* difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the throat
* fast heartbeat, palpitations
* lightheadedness or fainting spells
* numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
* seizure (convulsion)
* skin rash, flushing (redness), or itching
* swelling or extreme pain at the injection site
* uncontrollable muscle spasm

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

* dizziness
* pain or irritation at the injection site