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propofol and isoflurane

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Propofol and isoflurane are intravenous and inhaled anesthetic agents that enhance inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission and suppress excitatory glutamatergic signaling to produce sedation, hypnosis, and anesthesia.

Propofol and isoflurane are intravenous and inhaled anesthetic agents that enhance inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission and suppress excitatory glutamatergic signaling to produce sedation, hypnosis, and anesthesia. Used for Induction and maintenance of general anesthesia, Sedation in intensive care units, Procedural sedation.

At a glance

Generic namepropofol and isoflurane
Also known asDiprivan, isoflurane
SponsorUniversity Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust
Drug classGeneral anesthetic agents
TargetGABA-A receptor; NMDA receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaAnesthesiology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Propofol is an intravenous sedative-hypnotic that potentiates GABA-A receptor activity, leading to central nervous system depression. Isoflurane is a volatile inhaled anesthetic with similar GABAergic mechanisms and additional effects on ion channels. Together or individually, they are used to induce and maintain general anesthesia by depressing the central nervous system.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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

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