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Diprivan

Generic: Propofol

Rx only
General Anesthetic✓ FDA-verified
View full FDA label ↗
Diprivan is a medication used for sedation during surgeries and procedures, as well as for keeping patients calm in intensive care units. It works by enhancing the effects of a natural calming substance in the brain, helping to induce sleep and reduce awareness. Diprivan is given through an intravenous (IV) line, with starting doses typically around 2 mg/kg for induction, and maintenance doses ranging from 50 to 100 mcg/kg/min, depending on the patient's needs. It is important to know that Diprivan should not be used in patients who are allergic to eggs or soy products. Additionally, using Diprivan with other medications that cause sedation, like opioids, can increase the risk of breathing problems.

Uses

  • Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) sedation in adults.
  • Combined sedation and regional anesthesia in adults.
  • Induction of General Anesthesia in patients 3 years and older.
  • Maintenance of General Anesthesia in patients 2 months and older.
  • ICU sedation for intubated, mechanically ventilated adults.

Dosage

Adults under 55 years: 40 mg every 10 seconds for induction.
Elderly or debilitated patients: 20 mg every 10 seconds for induction.
Pediatric patients 3 to 16 years: 2.5 to 3.5 mg/kg for induction.
Maintenance for adults: 50–100 mcg/kg/min infusion.
Pediatric maintenance: 125–300 mcg/kg/min infusion.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.

Side effects

Common

burning or stinging at injection sitehypotensionbradycardia

Serious

anaphylactic reactionsrespiratory depressioncardiac failure
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Warnings

⚠ Important warnings

  • Administer only by trained personnel in a monitored setting.
  • Continuous monitoring for hypotension, apnea, and airway obstruction is required.
  • Not recommended for pediatric ICU sedation due to safety concerns.
  • Avoid rapid bolus administration, especially in elderly or debilitated patients.
  • Risk of Propofol Infusion Syndrome with prolonged high-dose infusions.
  • Do not use if contamination is suspected.

Drug interactions

  • Opioidsmay increase sedation effectsCaution
  • Benzodiazepinesmay increase sedation effectsCaution
  • Nitrous oxidecan be combined for better anesthesiaCaution

Ask about this drug

Answers pulled from the FDA label only.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).