Propofol: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Propofol is an intravenous anaesthetic. It is a prescription medicine used for general anaesthesia and sedation. In Pakistan it is available as injections, made by 6 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Propofol works
Propofol enhances the action of GABA, the brain's main calming chemical messenger, which rapidly reduces brain activity and causes unconsciousness within seconds of injection. It is broken down quickly, so its effect wears off soon after the infusion is stopped.
What is Propofol used for?
- General anaesthesia and sedation
Propofol is used by anaesthetists to put patients to sleep at the start of a general anaesthetic and to keep them asleep during surgery. It is also used for lighter sedation during procedures such as endoscopy, and to keep patients on a ventilator comfortable in intensive care. People usually wake up quickly and clear-headed once it is stopped.
Side effects of Propofol
Side effects of Propofol are watched for and managed by the anaesthetic team, and may include:
- Pain or stinging in the vein during injection
- Low blood pressure
- Slowed or paused breathing
- Slow heartbeat
- Twitching movements
- Nausea after waking
It is given only by trained staff with breathing support and monitoring available. Tell staff if you notice a rash, swelling or breathing difficulty after the procedure.
Precautions and warnings
- It is given only in hospital or clinic settings by trained healthcare professionals who monitor breathing, heart rate and blood pressure throughout.
- Tell the medical team about any allergies, including to soya or peanut, as well as other medicines and any heart, lung, liver or kidney problems.
- Do not drive, operate machinery, sign important documents or drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after sedation or anaesthesia.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and stay with you after a day-case procedure.
- Let the team know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions about Propofol
What is the price of Propofol in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Propofol products currently in stock range from Rs 105 to Rs 2,136 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Recofol 1% Injection at Rs 105. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Propofol are available in Pakistan?
Propofol is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Propofol (B. Braun Pakistan Ltd), Recofol (A & J Company), Pofol (Akhai Pharmaceuticals), Diprivan (Ici Pharmaceuticals) and Fresofol (Medipak).Do I need a prescription for Propofol?
Yes. Propofol is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Propofol be used during pregnancy?
Let the team know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Are all Propofol brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Propofol in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Propofol brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 10 products containing Propofol from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
