Last reviewed · How we verify

Manual titration of propofol

Brugmann University Hospital · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Propofol is an intravenous sedative-hypnotic agent that enhances inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system to produce sedation and anesthesia.

Propofol is an intravenous sedative-hypnotic agent that enhances inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system to produce sedation and anesthesia. Used for Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, Sedation in mechanically ventilated patients in intensive care units.

At a glance

Generic nameManual titration of propofol
SponsorBrugmann University Hospital
Drug classIntravenous sedative-hypnotic
TargetGABA-A receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesia
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Propofol acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABA-A receptors, increasing chloride ion influx and neuronal hyperpolarization. This results in depression of the central nervous system, producing rapid onset sedation, hypnosis, and anesthesia. Manual titration allows clinicians to adjust the infusion rate to achieve and maintain the desired level of sedation.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: