Propofol is used for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. Which statement about propofol is CORRECT?

• A It has a slow onset of action and accumulates significantly in fat, prolonging recovery
• B It is the safest anaesthetic in patients with egg or soy allergy as it contains no lipid carrier
• C It produces profound analgesia without cardiovascular depression
• D It produces anaesthesia by potentiating GABA-A receptors and has antiemetic properties; context-sensitive half-life remains short even after prolonged infusion ✓

Explanation

Propofol enhances GABA-A receptor function (similar to barbiturates) causing rapid, smooth induction within one arm-brain circulation time. Its context-sensitive half-life is short even after prolonged infusions because of its large volume of distribution and rapid redistribution plus hepatic (and extrahepatic) metabolism, making it ideal for TIVA. Propofol has intrinsic antiemetic properties. It causes significant cardiovascular depression (hypotension, reduced myocardial contractility) and is formulated in a lipid emulsion — caution in egg/soy allergy.

Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.