Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

ketamine and propofol

This is a combination of two intravenous anesthetic agents that work synergistically to produce rapid sedation and anesthesia through different mechanisms.

This is a combination of two intravenous anesthetic agents that work synergistically to produce rapid sedation and anesthesia through different mechanisms. Used for Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, Sedation in intensive care settings.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist that produces dissociative anesthesia while maintaining airway reflexes and hemodynamic stability. Propofol is a GABAergic agent that enhances inhibitory neurotransmission, producing rapid unconsciousness. Together, they are used in anesthetic induction and sedation protocols, with the combination potentially reducing the required doses of each agent.

Approved indications

• Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia
• Sedation in intensive care settings

Common side effects

• Hypotension
• Respiratory depression
• Emergence reactions (ketamine component)
• Injection site pain (propofol component)
• Bradycardia

Key clinical trials

• Comparison of Two Intravenous Drug Combinations for Ambulatory Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (PHASE1)
• Correlating EEG Dynamics With Consciousness Alteration Under Anesthesia
• Awareness Neuraxial Versus General Anesthesia in Frail Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic or Robotic Abdominopelvic Surgery. (NA)
• Treatment Response In ECT Patients
• Opioid-Free vs Opioid-Based Anesthesia in Bariatric Surgery (NA)
• Magnesium Sulfate Versus Other Anesthesia Drugs to Reduce Agitation After Adenotonsillectomy in Pediatric Patients (NA)
• Comparison Between Two Drugs in Sedation of Upper GI Endoscopy
• Transition From Acute to Chronic Opioid Use and Chronic Pain (EARLY_PHASE1)

Primary sources

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