Propofol is a short-acting intravenous anesthetic agent widely used for the induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, as well as for sedation in intensive care settings. It was first introduced in the late 1970s and rapidly gained popularity due to its rapid onset, short duration of action, and relatively smooth recovery profile. Propofol works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, leading to sedation and hypnosis. It is favored in clinical practice for its predictable pharmacokinetics, minimal postoperative nausea, and ability to provide easily controllable sedation levels. Additionally, propofol is used for procedural sedation and as part of total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) protocols. Despite its benefits, careful monitoring is required due to risks of hypotension, respiratory depression, and, rarely, propofol infusion syndrome.
