Propofol (Injection)

Introduction:

Propofol (PROE-poe-fol)

This medicine causes a person to relax or sleep (be unconscious) before and during a surgery. Also given to people in an intensive care unit (ICU). This medicine is a type of anesthetic.

Brand Name(s):

Diprivan, Amerinet Choice Propofol, NovaPlus Diprivan

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to propofol, eggs, egg products, soybeans, or soy products.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
  • You will receive this medicine in a hospital or surgery center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes, kidney disease, heart problems, pancreas problems, or high cholesterol. Make sure your doctor knows if you have a history of head injury, stroke, or seizures (including epilepsy).
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash; itching; swelling of the face, tongue, and throat; trouble breathing; or chest pain after you get the injection.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Confusion, weakness, or numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or lips.
  • Decrease in how much or how often you urinate.
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting (after you awake from surgery).
  • Lower back or side pain.
  • Muscle pain, tightness, or weakness.
  • Pain or fullness in your upper stomach.
  • Seizures.
  • Shortness of breath, cold sweat, and bluish-colored skin.
  • Slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat.
  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Mild nausea or vomiting.
  • Pain, burning, stinging, swelling, blistering, or skin changes where the needle is placed.
  • Skin rash or itching.
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