In this episode of the Atomic Anesthesia Podcast, host Dr. Rhea Temmermand provides a detailed pharmacology review of propofol, the main IV sedative hypnotic used for induction, maintenance, and procedural sedation in anesthesia practice. The episode covers propofol’s drug class and chemistry, its lipid emulsion formulation and infection risk, and key physicochemical properties including high lipophilicity and protein binding. Listeners learn the mechanism of action at the GABA A receptor, translating into CNS effects, cardiovascular and respiratory depression, and no analgesia. The discussion walks through pharmacokinetics and context‑sensitive half‑time in a clinically practical way, tying concepts to infusion planning and dosing strategies for various cases. Major adverse effects, toxicity including propofol infusion syndrome, allergy and infection‑control practices, and drug synergies are highlighted, with high‑yield clinical pearls on patient selection, hemodynamics, and airway rescue.

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