Why does propofol suppress respiration?
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Propofol suppresses respiration due to its inhibitory effect on the respiratory center. Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic primarily used for anesthesia during surgeries and other medical procedures. Its mechanism of action involves enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, thereby reducing excitability in the central nervous system and producing sedative, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects.
Propofol suppresses respiration due to its inhibitory effect on the respiratory center. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Propofol is an intravenous anesthetic primarily used for anesthesia during surgical and other medical procedures. Its mechanism of action involves enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA, thereby inhibiting excitability in the central nervous system and producing sedative, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant effects. Propofol's respiratory depressant effect results from its suppression of the respiratory center. It reduces the excitability of the respiratory center, leading to decreased respiratory rate and depth, which may cause respiratory depression. Therefore, when administering propofol, it is essential to closely monitor the patient's respiratory status to prevent adverse events such as respiratory depression and hypoxia.
It should be noted that propofol must be used under the supervision of a physician and should be individually adjusted according to the patient’s specific condition and needs. During administration, close monitoring of vital signs and respiratory function is necessary to ensure patient safety.
